Various manufacturers will employ one or more lathe operators to tend to this specific machine, which turns a raw material such as metal or wood and allows the operator to shape that material. If you want to become a lathe machine operator, you will need to get some training in the use of a lathe, and you will probably need to be trained in computer numeric control (CNC) processes. You may not need any specific level of education in order to become a lathe machine operator, but you will need to have basic math, computer, and communications skills.
You can often get the training you need to become a lathe machine operator in two ways: you can either get hired by a company that will give you the training on the job, or you can attend a training course that will give you the skills you need before you start applying for jobs. Both paths have distinct advantages: getting hired first will allow you to become a lathe machine operator more quickly and with little or no cost to you, but it can be more difficult to get such jobs. Attending a training class will give you the credentials you need to become a more attractive job candidate, but you will have to pay for these classes out of your own pocket.
Once you are hired, you will likely undergo an apprenticeship, during which time you will work under the guidance and supervision of a more experienced operator. This gives you an opportunity to hone your skills and learn more about the processes you will undertake once you become a lathe machine operator. The apprenticeship can last anywhere from a few months to several years, depending on the complexity of the manufacturing processes as well as company policies.
Regardless of your background and training, it is very likely that you will need to undergo safety training once you are hired to become a lathe machine operator. You will learn about various pieces of safety equipment, including eye protection, ear protection, dust collection systems, fire extinguishers, and much more. You will also learn the processes you must follow should an accident occur. It will be important to know how to shut down the machine in an emergency and who to contact to tend to the emergency. Maintenance of the machine may also be one of your responsibilities, so training may include safety procedures for maintaining or repairing the machine.
