CNC Lathe Operator Apprentice

Rusco Manufacturing

Machesney Park, IL

JOB DETAILS
SALARY
SKILLS
Blueprints, CNC (Computerized Numerical Control) Systems, CNC Lathe, Calibration, Cutting Tools, Dental Insurance, Detail Oriented, High School Diploma, Housekeeping/Cleaning, Lathe, Machine Tool, Machining, Machining Operations, Manufacturing, Mathematics, Production Machining, Quality Control, Quality Metrics, Safety Process, Safety/Work Safety, Vision Plan
LOCATION
Machesney Park, IL
POSTED
9 days ago

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

Typical apprentice responsibilities include:

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

Requirements (Apprentice Level)

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

About the Company

R

Rusco Manufacturing