CNC Lathe Operator Apprentice
Rusco Manufacturing, Machesney Park, IL, United States
Overview
Operate CNC lathe machines to produce metal parts. Learn basic knowledge of tooling and basic operator maintenance. Learn the basics of machine operation. Work under experienced machinists or supervisors. Focus on precision, safety, and quality control. Learn how to use Precision Measuring Tools such as Dial Calipers, OD Mic's and ID Mic's.
Core Duties
Machine operation: Load raw materials into the lathe; Start, monitor, and stop machines during production; Watch for errors, vibrations, or defects
Basic setup & adjustments: Change cutting tools and offsets; Assist with machine setup and calibration; Learn Mazatrol basics or machine controls
Inspection & quality: Measure parts using calipers, micrometers, gauges; Compare finished parts to blueprints/specs
Maintenance & housekeeping: Keep machines clean and lubricated; Report issues or malfunctions; Maintain a clean work area
Documentation: Record production data and inspection results; Follow work instructions and job sheets
Apprentice Requirements
Education
High school diploma or GED
Trade school or machining program = bonus
Experience
No Experience Required
Any manufacturing/mechanical experience helps
Skills
Ability to read blueprints (or willingness to learn)
Basic math (fractions, decimals, tolerances)
Mechanical aptitude
Attention to detail
Physical & Work Conditions
Standing for long periods
Lifting materials (10–50 lbs typical)
Factory environment (noise, oil, metal chips)
Shift work + possible overtime
What You Learn as an Apprentice
Machine setup and tooling
Precision measurement techniques
CNC programming basics (Mazatrol)
Production workflow & quality standards
Safety procedures in machining
Pay & Benefits
$18.00 per hour
Medical, Dental and Vision Plans
401(K) Savings Plan ( Including Company Match )
Job Related Training
Paid Holidays
Paid Vacations
1st Shift Schedule
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Operate CNC lathe machines to produce metal parts. Learn basic knowledge of tooling and basic operator maintenance. Learn the basics of machine operation. Work under experienced machinists or supervisors. Focus on precision, safety, and quality control. Learn how to use Precision Measuring Tools such as Dial Calipers, OD Mic's and ID Mic's.
Core Duties
Machine operation: Load raw materials into the lathe; Start, monitor, and stop machines during production; Watch for errors, vibrations, or defects
Basic setup & adjustments: Change cutting tools and offsets; Assist with machine setup and calibration; Learn Mazatrol basics or machine controls
Inspection & quality: Measure parts using calipers, micrometers, gauges; Compare finished parts to blueprints/specs
Maintenance & housekeeping: Keep machines clean and lubricated; Report issues or malfunctions; Maintain a clean work area
Documentation: Record production data and inspection results; Follow work instructions and job sheets
Apprentice Requirements
Education
High school diploma or GED
Trade school or machining program = bonus
Experience
No Experience Required
Any manufacturing/mechanical experience helps
Skills
Ability to read blueprints (or willingness to learn)
Basic math (fractions, decimals, tolerances)
Mechanical aptitude
Attention to detail
Physical & Work Conditions
Standing for long periods
Lifting materials (10–50 lbs typical)
Factory environment (noise, oil, metal chips)
Shift work + possible overtime
What You Learn as an Apprentice
Machine setup and tooling
Precision measurement techniques
CNC programming basics (Mazatrol)
Production workflow & quality standards
Safety procedures in machining
Pay & Benefits
$18.00 per hour
Medical, Dental and Vision Plans
401(K) Savings Plan ( Including Company Match )
Job Related Training
Paid Holidays
Paid Vacations
1st Shift Schedule
#J-18808-Ljbffr