CNC Lathe Operator – Entry Level
SUMMARY
The CNC Lathe Operator is an entry-level employee responsible for operating CNC lathe machines under the direction of the Lathe Supervisor or Department Lead.
The operator receives job instructions for each assignment and follows all approved work instructions, customer blueprints, travelers, setup sheets, and quality requirements. This position does not independently set up machines or make program changes.
REPORTS TO
Lathe Supervisor or Department Lead
FUNCTION
The CNC Lathe Operator is responsible for safely operating machines that have already been set up and approved for production.
The operator will load and unload parts, monitor the machining process, inspect parts using approved measuring equipment, deburr and clean parts as required, and complete all production documentation. Any machine, tooling, program, dimensional, or quality concerns must be reported immediately to the supervisor.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Operate CNC lathe machines that have been set up and approved by an authorized setup technician or supervisor.
2. Follow customer blueprints, travelers, work instructions, setup sheets, and supervisor directions.
3. Load raw material or parts into the machine and unload completed parts safely.
4. Inspect parts using approved measuring equipment, including calipers, micrometers, bore gauges, and other basic inspection tools.
5. Perform required in-process inspections at the specified frequency and record inspection results accurately.
6. Immediately report any dimensional, quality, tooling, machine, or safety concerns to the supervisor.
7. Do not make tooling offsets, setup changes, or program changes without approval from the supervisor or authorized setup technician.
8. Stop the machine and notify the supervisor if parts are out of tolerance or if the machine is not operating correctly.
9. Clean and deburr parts according to the traveler, blueprint, and work instructions.
10. Identify, count, and handle materials and finished parts properly to prevent damage or mixing.
11. Complete all production paperwork and system entries accurately and on time.
12. Enter required information into EOS, JobBOSS, and workstation systems as instructed.
13. Follow all quality procedures and ISO requirements related to the position.
14. Follow all company safety rules and use required personal protective equipment.
15. Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area.
16. Perform basic machine cleaning and routine operator maintenance as directed by the supervisor.
17. Meet production and quality expectations while working under the guidance of the supervisor.
18. Participate in training, cross-training, and continuous-improvement activities.
AUTHORITY
* Stop production and notify the supervisor if a safety or quality concern is identified.
* Reject or separate suspected nonconforming parts and report them to the supervisor.
* Follow applicable ISO standards, safety requirements, and approved work instructions.
QUALIFICATIONS
* Entry-level position; previous CNC machining experience is preferred but not required.
* High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
* Basic ability to read and understand technical drawings, travelers, and work instructions.
* Basic math skills.
* Willingness to learn how to use calipers, micrometers, bore gauges, and other measuring equipment.
* Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
* Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
* Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
* Ability to stand for extended periods and safely handle materials and parts.
* Willingness to learn about CNC lathe operations, plastics, tooling, and machining processes.
* Commitment to COMCO’s Core Values.
* Commitment to safety, quality, Lean Manufacturing, and continuous improvement.
ADDITIONAL KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
* Able to complete assigned production work in a timely manner.
* Able to complete all paperwork accurately and on time.
* Able to complete required EOS, JobBOSS, and workstation data entries.
* Able to maintain part identification and traceability throughout production.
* Able to follow established procedures without making unauthorized changes.
* Able to communicate problems clearly and promptly to the supervisor.
* Able to perform repetitive tasks while maintaining quality and attention to detail.
* Able to work productively under pressure.
* Reliable, punctual, and willing to learn.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $20.00 - $28.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Employee discount
- Flexible schedule
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Parental leave
- Professional development assistance
- Referral program
- Relocation assistance
- Retirement plan
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
Experience:
- CNC lathe: 2 years (Preferred)
Location:
- Huntington Station, NY 11746 (Preferred)
Shift availability:
Ability to Commute:
- Huntington Station, NY 11746 (Preferred)
Work Location: In person