Lathe Turner (Woodworking Shop)
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Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A craftsman/technician who attaches wood to a lathe, rotates it, and shapes vessels or parts by cutting with tools.
Description
Lathe turners (woodworking shops) fix wood to a lathe, rotate it, and shape plates, flower vases, furniture parts, etc., by cutting with tools or files. They handle everything from attaching the wood, adjusting machine speed, selecting and sharpening tools, cutting, polishing, to finish painting. They manage finished dimensions, surface smoothness, and require high precision, along with skilled handwork techniques. Machine maintenance/inspection and learning new tool technologies are also part of the job.
Future Outlook
With the spread of automation technologies such as CNC woodworking lathes, demand for manual work is decreasing, but skilled handcrafting techniques continue to be required in traditional crafts and high-end furniture fields.
Personality Traits
Dexterous with hands and good at detailed work / High concentration / Meticulous
Work Style
Contract Manufacturing / Factory Employment / OEM Manufacturing / Self-employed Individual Workshop
Career Path
Apprentice → Lathe Worker → Skilled Worker → Foreman/Supervisor → Independent/Workshop Establishment
Required Skills
Drafting and Dimension Measurement / Finishing Polishing Technique / Lathe Machining / Tool Sharpening Technique
Recommended Skills
CAD Basics / CNC Lathe Operation / Painting Technique / Wood Knowledge
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because fine processing accuracy is required. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Because there is a lot of standing work and physical strength is needed for machine operation. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Because advanced mathematical analysis is hardly required. |
Aliases
- Lathe Artisan
- Woodworking Lathe Operator
Related Jobs
- Carpenter
- Furniture Craftsman
- Wood Carver