Apprentice Lathe Operator
ならいせんばんこう
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Occupation that uses manual lathes to cut and machine metal materials to manufacture parts.
Description
Apprentice lathe operators operate general-purpose manual lathes to cut metal materials and manufacture parts and products. They select tools according to the material, set rotation speed and feed rate, change setups, and adjust chucks and tailstocks. They check dimensional accuracy and surface finish with measuring instruments to prevent defects. This is a valued occupation in small-lot production and prototyping, which involve diverse small-quantity production. It requires consideration for safety and hygiene, understanding of machine tool characteristics, and high manual dexterity.
Future Outlook
Amid progress in automation and robotization in manufacturing, demand is expected to continue in fields requiring high manual precision, such as small-lot and prototype parts. On the other hand, acquisition of automation and labor-saving technologies will be necessary.
Personality Traits
Dexterous with Hands, Good at Fine Work / High Concentration / Meticulous
Work Style
Contract Employee / Factory Work / Full-time Employee / Shift Work
Career Path
Lathe Operator → Chief Lathe Operator → Production Engineer → Process Manager → Manufacturing Manager
Required Skills
Blueprint Reading / Cutting Condition Setting / Manual Lathe Operation / Tool Selection / Use of Measuring Instruments (Caliper, Micrometer)
Recommended Skills
Basics of Metal Materials / CAM / QC Techniques / Safety and Health Management
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Fine dimensional errors are not tolerated, requiring high attention. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Requires stamina for long hours of standing work and handling heavy parts. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Follows prescribed processing procedures, emphasizing routine tasks over creativity. |
Related Qualifications
- Machining Skills Test: Machining (Lathe Operation) Level 2
- Machining Skills Test: Machining (Lathe Operation) Level 3
Aliases
- Lathe Operator
Related Jobs
- Machining Center Operator
- Metal Machinist
- NC Lathe Operator