Job Title

Machinist – Conventional Lathe / Milling Machine : Operator

South Africa, Western Cape
Back to jobs
Market Related
Area: South Africa, Western Cape
Sector: Manufacturing
Posted: 21 May 2026

Job Details

Machinist – Conventional Lathe / Milling Machine

A dynamic team of precision-driven individuals operating in manufacturing environment, creating custom components, and striving for excllence in seeing top-quality workmanship – sitting right at the heart of medium – heavy industrial engineering on the West Coast.

If machining excites, this setup will feel like home.

CORE FOCUS OF THE ROLE

Take charge of conventional lathes and milling machines, handling a wide range of custom machining work on rollers, shafts and related components for our mutli industry array of clients. From setup to final measurement, you’ll own the full process and take responsibility for accuracy, finish and repeatability.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Operate conventional lathes and milling machines to carry out various machining operations

Set up and operate machines with 2-axis and 3-axis positioning controls

Plan own machining steps using drawings, machining instructions, process sheets and jobcards to minimise risk and imporve efficiency

Determine required timing, tooling, speeds and feed rates for each project 

Troubleshoot machining challenges and adjust setups for efficient, consistent outcomes

Read and interpret engineering drawings and maintain the required tolerances

Measure and verify workpieces using micrometers, vernier calipers, telescoping gauges and dial indicators

Machine components such as rollers, shafts, covers, flanges, threads, tapers, key ways, ID & OD consistently in line with machining practices

Maintain good housekeeping around machines and ensure a safe, organised work area

REQUIREMENTS

Trade-tested Turner or Turner/Machinist (or equivalent relevant trade qualification)

Minimum 5 years post-trade experience as a Turner, with at least 8 years’ active knowledge on conventional turning and milling machines

Solid experience with componnet setup, machine operations, fixturing and tooling setups

Strong understanding of manufacturing and production principles in a manufacture / reconditioing environment

Ability to read, interpret and work from detailed technical drawings 

Exposure to ISO or quality related management system woiuld be beneficial

Comfortable working independently & honsestly with minimal supervision

Own reliable transport

Willingness to work overtime when operations demands 

Available immediately or at short notice

LOCATION & AVAILABILITY

Company based in Saldanha on the West Coast, Western Cape

Candidates already in the Western Cape strongly preferred, to streamline assessment and relocation

Willingness to relocate to Saldanha is essential

ADDED ADVANTAGE

Experience with rollers and shafts in reconditioning, cladding or heavy-duty industrial applications

For a machinist who takes pride in precision and enjoys seeing big, serious steel components pass through their hands, this role puts you right where the action is – at the cutting edge of old-school craftsmanship and heavy industry.