Job Description

Job Title: Lathe Operator

Location: Bakersfield

Employment Type: Full-Time

Pay Rate: $19.00–$21.00+ per hour + Commission Opportunity

Position Overview

Legacy Staffing is seeking a skilled and motivated Lathe Operator on behalf of an industrial manufacturing client. This position is responsible for setting up, operating, and monitoring conventional lathe equipment to produce high-precision components used in oilfield and industrial applications.

The ideal candidate will have machining experience, strong blueprint-reading skills, and a commitment to producing high-quality work while meeting production goals. This role offers a competitive hourly wage plus commission opportunities.

Key Responsibilities

Machine Operation

• Operate lathes, mills, and other machining equipment safely and efficiently.
• Monitor machine performance to ensure production goals and quality standards are met.
• Maintain continuous production flow while minimizing downtime.

Setup & Machine Adjustments

• Perform machine setup and changeovers as required.
• Load raw materials using overhead lifting equipment and material handling devices.
• Set offsets and make minor program adjustments to optimize machine performance.
• Verify tooling and machine settings before production runs.

Quality Control

• Conduct first-article inspections and in-process quality checks.
• Use precision measuring instruments including micrometers, calipers, gauges, and other inspection tools.
• Interpret engineering drawings and specifications to ensure parts meet required tolerances.
• Document inspection results and report any non-conforming conditions.

Maintenance & Safety

• Monitor tooling wear and replace tooling as necessary.
• Perform basic preventative maintenance and housekeeping activities.
• Remove chips and debris to maintain safe operating conditions.
• Follow all company safety policies and procedures, including proper use of PPE.
• Report equipment issues or safety concerns immediately.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Previous machining experience in a manufacturing environment required.
• Experience operating CNC, lathes and/or conventional machining equipment preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret complex blueprints, drawings, and job specifications.
• Ability to understand machining tolerances and quality requirements.
• Willing to work other areas of the yard on downtime.

Technical Skills

• Knowledge of:
• Turning operations
• Boring operations
• Facing operations
• Drilling operations
• Threading operations
• Experience with precision measuring instruments.
• Ability to perform basic machine troubleshooting and offset adjustments.
• Mechanical aptitude and strong problem-solving skills.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods throughout the workday.
• Ability to work in a heavy industrial manufacturing environment.
• Ability to safely lift and move materials using overhead cranes and lifting devices.
• Capability to perform repetitive motions and physical tasks associated with machining operations.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong attention to detail.
• Commitment to safety and quality.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent time-management and organizational skills.
• Strong work ethic and reliability.
• Ability to meet production deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Compensation & Benefits

• Pay: $19.00–$21.00+ per hour DOE
• Commission Opportunity Available
• Potential for career growth within a stable manufacturing environment

If you have machining experience and take pride in producing precision parts while maintaining high safety and quality standards, we encourage you to apply. Legacy Staffing is proud to connect skilled trades professionals with rewarding opportunities in manufacturing and industrial operations.