JOB DUTIES      

Lathe Operators may:

Read blueprints, job orders, tooling instructions, or standard charts to determine specifications and machining procedures

Plan the operation for efficient use of tools and time

Change worn out tools

Perform routine machine maintenance

Check to see that workpiece meets specifications

Install specified chucks or hold fixtures on headstocks

Secure the workpiece in the holding device

Position and secure tools and tool holders to tool heads

Adjust lathe controls, stops, and cams to set rotation speed, feed rates, and depth of cuts

Turn handwheels to feed the tool to the workpiece or engage an automatic feed

Direct the flow of coolant and remove chips

Mark reference lines on the workpiece with a scribe (tool)

Tools and equipment used may include:

OCCUPATIONAL SPECIALTIES     

Lathe Operators may specialize in these areas:

604.380-018 ENGINE-LATHE SET-UP OPERATORS set up and operate engine lathes to perform machining operations such as turning, boring, threading, and facing on workpieces according to tooling instructions.

604.380-026 TURRET-LATHE SET-UP OPERATORS set up and operate turret lathes to perform a series of machining operations on metal workpieces, such as castings, forgings, and bar stock.

604.280-014 MULTIPLE SPINDLE SCREW-MACHINE SET-UP OPERATORS set up and operate one or more multiple-spindle, lathe-type screw machines equipped with automatic indexing and feeding mechanisms to perform turning, boring, threading, and facing operations on metal bar stock, on a custom basis.

604.380-010 CHUCKING-MACHINE SET-UP OPERATORS set up and operate one or more single- or multiple-spindle horizontal chucking machines (lathes) to perform a series of machining operations on metal workpieces.

604.685-026 PRODUCTION LATHE OPERATORS tend one or more previously set up lathes, such as turret lathes, engine lathes, and chucking machines, to perform one operation or a series of repetitive operations, such as turning, boring, threading, or facing metal workpieces.

In addition to learning about these specialties, you may also find it helpful to explore the following MOIScripts:

WORKING CONDITIONS AND REQUIREMENTS     

Skilled Lathe Operators generally work in the specialized production departments or tool rooms of factories, tool shops, or job shops directed by a section or shop supervisor. Lathe Operators usually work indoors in heated, well lighted and well-ventilated areas. Production Lathe Operators are generally exposed to more noise and dust in their departments. Hazards to Lathe Operators include sharp metal chips, abrasive dust, sharp cutting tools, revolving machine parts, and skin irritation from oil or coolants.

Most Lathe Operators work a 5-day 40-hour week. Some Lathe Operators are employed on afternoon or night shifts. Overtime may be necessary to meet production requirements or contract deadlines. Most Lathe Operators are members of unions, such as The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers; The International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace, and Agricultural Implement Workers of America; and The United Steelworkers of America.

Lathe Operators who belong to unions must pay dues. Some Lathe Operators may be required to have their own tools.

You Should Prefer:

• Activities dealing with things and objects

• Activities which involve the use of machines, processes, or methods

You Should Be Able To:

• Work within precise limits or standards of accuracy

• Rate information using standards that can be measured or checked

• See detail in objects or drawings and recognize slight differences

• Look at flat drawings or pictures and visualize as solid objects

Math Problem You Should Be Able to Solve:

Calculate the proper lathe rpm for a piece of high-carbon steel 25 mm in diameter. Use a speed of 16m/min.

Reading Example You Should Be Able to Read and Comprehend:

The procedure for facing an independent chuck is the same as in a universal chuck except for mounting the workpiece. The independent chuck is often used when the work must be mounted exactly on center. Another feature of the independent chuck is the ability to work off center for machining eccentrics.

Writing Example You Should Be Able to Produce:

Prepare a plan of operation for a specified job.

Thinking Skill You Should Be Able to Demonstrate:

Analytical skills and be detail oriented in setting up and operating lathes based on blueprints and other job specifications.

[back to top]

EDUCATION AND PREPARATION OPPORTUNITIES     

NOTE: On-The-Job Training provided by the employer or a High School Diploma or Equivalent or a High School Diploma with specific Vocational Education Classes or a Certificate (program of up to one year of study beyond high school) or an Associate Degree (two years of study beyond high school) may qualify a person for this occupation.

The following education and preparation opportunities are helpful in preparing for occupations in the MOIScript:

***SCHOOL SUBJECTS***

0500 BUILDING TRADES, 0700 CAREERS, 0900 COMMUNICATIONS, 2200 MATH, 2300 METALS, 3200 TECHNICAL DRAWING, 3300 TECHNOLOGY, 3400 WOODS

***VOCATIONAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS***

049 MACHINE TOOL OPERATION/SHOP

Approved vocational education programs in Machine Tool Operation and Machine Shop prepare students to shape metal parts on machines such as lathes, grinders, drill presses, milling machines, and shapers. Programs may also train individuals in the use of one machine. Instruction is given in calculating dimensions; using precision measuring instruments such as layout tools, micrometers, and gages; machining and heat-treating various metals; and in laying out machine parts.

Courses in other trade and industrial programs may be required for completion of this program.

High school students should consult their guidance office for more information about the specific requirements of this program at their school or area vocational education center.

***POSTSECONDARY PROGRAMS ***

098 MECHANICAL TECHNOLOGY

Programs in Mechanical Technology provide opportunities to gain the knowledge and skills necessary for employment in the design, manufacture, testing, operation, and maintenance of devices, tools, and mechanical equipment. Individuals who teach Mechanical Technology at the secondary school level must have a Michigan Teaching Certificate.

Courses will vary from school to school but may include:

Search for a College and/or Instructional Program     

***APPRENTICESHIP OPPORTUNITIES***

There are no Apprenticeships related to this MOIScript

***MILITARY TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES***

There are no Military Programs related to this MOIScript    

E-Learning Courses and Programs       

[back to top]

OPPORTUNITIES FOR EXPERIENCE AND METHODS OF ENTRY     

Persons interested in this field may gain experience through part-time or summer work as a helper or laborer in a machine shop. However, you must be at least 18 years old to work with or around metalworking machines. Secondary vocational education programs in machine tool operation/shop and postsecondary programs in mechanical technology may also offer opportunities for experience.

School-to-Work opportunities include:

informal apprenticeships

mentorships

job shadowing experiences

touring a local Lather Operator employer

internships

volunteer work with a Lathe Operator employer

community service work with an agency

To enter this field, apply directly to employers. Assistance in locating a job may be available from high school placement offices, a local office of Michigan Works!, or local unions. Job openings may be listed also in newspaper want ads. In addition, you should access and search the Internet's on-line employment services sites such as:    

Michigan Talent Bank (  http://www.michworks.org/mtb/user/MTB_EMPL.EntryMainPage ) 

America's Job Bank (  http://www.ajb.dni.us ) 

Classifieds Employment (  http://www.classifieds2000.com )  

Yahoo! Careers (  http://careers.yahoo.com/ ) 

MONSTER.COM  ( http://www.monster.com )    

Michigan Department of Career Development (  http://www.michigan.gov/mdcd/ )

Michigan Works! (  http://www.michiganworks.org )

You should also enter an electronic resume on these on-line services.

[back to top]

EARNINGS AND ADVANCEMENT       

Earnings of Lathe Operators vary according to the skill level of the individuals, type of lathe operated, geographic location, size of the employer, and extent of unionization. Lathe Operators may be paid hourly rates, incentive rates, or a combination of both methods.

Nationally, in 2001, Lathe and Turning Machine Operators and Set Up Workers had median weekly earnings ranging from $570 to $584 per week or $14.25 to $14.60  per hour.  The median hourly earnings of  "all" workers in the U.S. were $14.92 in 2001.Experienced Lathe Set Up Operators employed in the auto industry earned between $22.32 and $26.65 per hour (mid 2002). They also earned a cost-of-living allowance.

Lathe Operators in Michigan earned n average of $16.75 per hour in early 2002.

Depending on the employer, some Lathe Operators also receive a periodic cost-of-living adjustment.

The 2000 graduates of high school vocational education programs in Michigan who are working in jobs related to this occupation earned a beginning average of $10.16 an hour in 2001.

Most Lathe Operators receive paid vacations and holidays; life, accident, disability, and hospitalization insurance; retirement plans; and sick pay. These benefits are usually paid for, at least in part, by the employers.

Lathe Operators may learn this occupation in a variety of ways, including postsecondary education classes, and on-the-job training.

However, advancement from production Lathe Operator to semi-skilled and skilled Lathe Operator is gradual. Promotion depends on ability, training, skill, and experience. In addition, advancement to machinist or tool and die maker may require completion of formal apprenticeship training. Lathe Operators with leadership ability may advance to supervisory jobs.

[back to top]

EMPLOYMENT AND OUTLOOK     

Nationally, there were about 83,700 Lathe Operators employed in 2000. Employment is expected to decline through the year 2010. The industry distribution for Lathe Operators looked like this:    

Employment of Lathe Operators may be limited due to the industry's more widespread use of such technologies as computer-controlled equipment, lasers, robots, fiber optics, and other automation. These improve the quality of the product and reduce production costs. An increase in imported machined products and the increased use of plastics and ceramics may also affect employment opportunities. Opportunities will be best for skilled workers.

There are approximately 5,600  Lathe Operators employed in Michigan. Most Lathe Operators worked in urban areas.  Employment of Lathe Operators is expected to decline through the year 2008.  An average of 120 annual job openings is expected due to the replacement of those who retire, die or leave the labor force for other reasons.    

MICHIGAN'S AREA EMPLOYMENT OUTLOOK TO 2008    

  EMPLOYMENT                              NUMBER            PERCENT             PROJECTED YEARLY  

  REGION                                          EMPLOYED       GROWTH             JOB OPENINGS  

  Ann Arbor Area                               240                      -13.8                       5  

  Battle Creek Area                            160                      -1.9                         3  

  Benton Harbor Area                         250                       -5.6                       6  

  Central Michigan                              80                         -6.2                        2  

  Detroit MSA                                    2,070                    -8.2                        46  

  East Central Michigan                       20                          9.1                        0  

  Flint Area                                        175                       -22.4                       4  

  Grand Rapids Area                          870                        2.3                         21  

  Jackson Area                                  360                       -3.9                         8  

  Kalamazoo Area                             150                        -5.4                        3  

  Lansing MSA                                  360                       -16.3                       8  

  Muskegon Area                              155                         3.2                         4  

  Northeast Lower Peninsula              45                          10.9                       2  

  Northwest Lower Peninsula             85                          11.8                       3  

  Saginaw MSA                                170                        -2.9                        4  

  Thumb Area                                   90                          -1.1                        2  

  Upper Peninsula                             45                           18.6                       2  

  West Central Michigan                   50                          -5.8                        1    

MSA designates a Metropolitan Statistical Area 

[back to top]

SOURCES OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION     

Printed occupational information is available upon written request from sources below:

Copyright © 2003 Michigan Department of Career Development