Near-surface residual stress distributions in the nickel-based superalloy Inconel 718 that originate from the machining operation turning are studied. The turning process that is used in the experiments is face grooving which gives quasi-orthogonal cutting conditions. Cutting speed and feed have been varied to investigate their effects on the residual stress state. Tensile residual stresses with a maximum of 1300 MPa were found at the surface that turn rapidly into compressive residual stresses of up to -800 MPa. The depth distributions of the residual stresses are presented and discussed with respect to observations made by optical and transmission electron microscopy.