Assistant Laser Operator - 1st, 2nd and Weekend

Department: Manufacturing
Reports To: Laser Operator / Manufacturing Supervisor
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Position Summary

The Assistant Laser Operator supports the Laser Operator in the setup, operation, and maintenance of CNC laser cutting equipment. This position is responsible for loading and unloading material, sorting parts, performing quality inspections, maintaining material flow, and ensuring the laser department operates safely and efficiently. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals looking to develop CNC manufacturing skills and advance into a Laser Operator role.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist the Laser Operator with machine setup and production runs.
• Load and unload raw material using overhead cranes, forklifts, or other material handling equipment (training provided as required).
• Remove cut parts from machine tables and sort according to work orders.
• Inspect parts for quality, burrs, dross, dimensions, and defects.
• Separate skeletons and scrap material and dispose of them properly.
• Label, stage, and transport finished parts to the next operation.
• Monitor material inventory and notify supervision of shortages.
• Keep laser tables, work areas, and equipment clean and organized using 5S principles.
• Assist with nozzle changes, lens cleaning, and routine machine maintenance.
• Read and follow work orders, blueprints, and production schedules.
• Verify material type, thickness, and quantities before production.
• Report equipment issues or quality concerns immediately.
• Follow all company safety policies and wear required PPE.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Manufacturing experience preferred but not required.
• Experience operating forklifts or overhead cranes is a plus.
• Ability to read a tape measure accurately.
• Basic math skills.
• Mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn CNC equipment.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Dependable attendance and positive work ethic.

Physical Requirements

• Frequently lift up to 50 pounds.
• Stand and walk for extended periods.
• Frequently bend, stoop, twist, and reach.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Ability to safely handle sheet metal products.

Preferred Skills

• Experience in sheet metal manufacturing.
• Familiarity with laser cutting processes.
• Blueprint reading experience.
• Knowledge of quality inspection tools such as calipers and tape measures.
• Forklift and overhead crane certification (or ability to obtain).

Working Conditions

• Manufacturing environment with exposure to moving machinery, noise, dust, and varying temperatures.
• Required use of safety glasses, steel-toe boots, hearing protection, and other PPE as required.

Success in This Role

A successful Assistant Laser Operator will:

• Maintain a strong safety record.
• Produce quality parts with minimal errors.
• Keep pace with production schedules.
• Demonstrate reliability and teamwork.
• Learn laser operations with the goal of advancing into a Laser Operator position.

Career Path:
Assistant Laser Operator → Laser Operator → Lead Laser Operator → Manufacturing Lead/Supervisor

Pay: From $22.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person