JOB DESCRIPTION – Manual Lathe Roughing Operator raining Provided)
About FERPA Precision Machine
Founded in 1990, FERPA Precision Machine, Inc. is a family-owned precision machining company with over 35 years of manufacturing excellence. We produce precision components for the aerospace, space, industrial, and energy industries using state-of-the-art CNC equipment in a clean, air-conditioned facility.
As our business continues to grow, we're looking for motivated individuals who want to build a long-term career in manufacturing. No machining experience? No problem—we're looking for attitude, reliability, and a willingness to learn. We'll teach you the rest.
About the Role:
Ferpa Precision Machine Inc is looking for a skilled Manual Lathe Roughing Operator to join our machining team in Houston, TX.The Roughing Operator is responsible for setting up and operating manual lathes to remove excess material from raw stock, preparing parts for finishing operations. This role focuses on high-efficiency material removal while maintaining dimensional tolerances, safety standards, and production timelines.
This is a hands-on opportunity to work with precision equipment in a fast-paced manufacturing environment where craftsmanship and accuracy are valued every day. If you take pride in your work and love the craft of machining, we want to hear from you!
Key Responsibilities
- Set up and operate manual lathes for rough machining operations
- Interpret blueprints, work orders, and technical drawings
- Perform heavy material removal (rough cuts) on metal and/or plastic components
- Select appropriate tooling, speeds, and feeds for roughing applications
- Measure and verify part dimensions using calipers, micrometers, and gauges
- Maintain proper tolerances as specified in job documentation
- Monitor machine performance and adjust as needed for optimal output
- Deburr and clean parts prior to next operation
- Perform routine maintenance on machines and tooling
- Follow all shop safety procedures and PPE requirements
- Collaborate with machinists and supervisors to ensure workflow efficiency
- Support additional tasks and job-related duties as assigned to meet business and production needs
Job Requirements / Qualifications
- High school diploma or GED preferred.
- Demonstrated strong basic math skills (fractions, decimals, tolerances)
- Able to stand for extended periods and lift up to 40 pounds.
- This position requires U.S. Person status as defined under applicable ITAR regulations.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with roughing operations preferred
- Familiarity with measuring tools and inspection processes
What You'll Learn
- Blueprint reading
- Precision measuring tools
- Quality inspection
- Tool offsets and wear adjustments
- Basic G-code concepts
- CNC machining
Skills We're Looking For
- Positive attitude, strong work ethic, and dependable attendance
- Team-oriented mindset
- Strong attention to detail and ability to stay focused, organized, and follow detailed instructions
- Mechanical aptitude and comfort using basic hand tools
- Interest in learning and building a long-term career in manufacturing
- Previous manufacturing or machine shop experience is preferred
- Basic understanding of machining fundamentals (feeds, speeds, tooling)
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints and shop drawings
Why Work at FERPA?
- Family-owned company with over 35 years of success
- Weekly pay
- Direct hire, full-time position
- Clean, climate-controlled shop
- Modern CNC equipment
- Growing aerospace and precision manufacturing company
- On-the-job training and career advancement opportunities
- Opportunity to learn highly valuable skills
