Wood Lathe Operator
もっこうせんばんこう
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A profession that sets timber on a lathe machine and manufactures cylindrical or curved wood products by cutting with tools.
Description
Wood lathe operators secure timber to the lathe machine, perform cutting processes using tools, and manufacture cylindrical or curved wood product parts and crafts. They are responsible for selecting raw materials, sharpening tools, managing dimensions during processing, surface finishing, quality inspection, and machine maintenance and inspection. They read drawings, perform precise cutting continuously, and are also required to make improvement proposals for safety management and work efficiency enhancement.
Future Outlook
Domestic demand for wood products is stable, and with increasing demand for personalized and high-value-added products, demand for highly skilled workers is expected to continue. In the future, the adoption of CNC woodworking machines will advance, requiring skills that combine machine operation and hand processing.
Personality Traits
Work Style
Career Path
Apprentice Lathe Operator → Skilled Lathe Operator → Chief Lathe Operator → Woodworking Technician → Production Manager
Required Skills
Lathe operation / Measuring instrument usage / Tool sharpening technique / Wood properties understanding / Work drawing interpretation
Recommended Skills
Basic CAD/CAM knowledge / Safety management knowledge / Surface finishing technique / Tool coating
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because high accuracy is required for fine dimensions and surface finishing. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Because physical stamina is needed for long hours of standing work and handling heavy timber. |
Aliases
- Wood Lathe Worker
- Woodturner
Related Jobs
- Furniture Craftsman
- Lathe Operator
- Woodworking Machine Operator