Laser Operator

Fiber Laser Operator Full-Time | Hourly | Broken Arrow, OK

About the Role

We are a precision manufacturing company with over 38 years in business seeking a skilled and dependable Fiber Laser Operator to join our fabrication team. In this role, you will set up and operate a high-performance CNC fiber laser cutting system to produce precision flat parts from a variety of materials and thicknesses. This is a hands-on production role in an AS9100D-certified shop serving aerospace, defense, and industrial customers with exacting quality standards.

What You'll Do

• Set up and operate a high-powered CNC fiber laser cutting system to cut mild steel, stainless steel, aluminum, and other materials across a range of gauges and thicknesses.
• Load and execute cutting programs from CAD/CAM nesting software; adjust cutting parameters including power, speed, gas pressure, and focal height to maintain edge quality and dimensional accuracy.
• Operate automated shuttle tables and material exchange systems; stage and load sheet stock safely per machine capacity and operator guidelines.
• Monitor active cutting cycles for quality issues including dross, slag, burn-through, and dimensional deviation; make real-time adjustments as needed.
• Inspect finished parts using calipers, tape measures, and squares against engineering drawings and job travelers.
• Perform consumable maintenance including nozzle cleaning and replacement, lens inspection, and cutting head servicing per manufacturer intervals.
• Maintain the dust collection system, assist table pallet and conveyor inspections, and perform daily operator-level preventive maintenance.
• Read and interpret work orders, job travelers, cut lists, and engineering drawings to verify correct programs, quantities, and part numbers before each run.
• Complete all required production documentation including travelers, part counts, scrap logs, and nonconformance reports in compliance with AS9100D quality procedures.
• Follow all ITAR handling requirements for controlled materials and drawings.
• Keep the machine and surrounding work area clean, organized, and compliant with 5S and OSHA safety standards.
• Wear all required PPE including safety glasses, hearing protection, and gloves; report unsafe conditions immediately.

What We're Looking For

Required:

• High school diploma or GED.
• Minimum 1 year of experience operating a CNC fiber laser cutting machine in a production environment.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, cut lists, and work orders.
• Familiarity with CAD/CAM nesting software used to program and load cutting files.
• Working knowledge of assist gas selection (nitrogen, oxygen) and how gas type impacts cut quality by material.
• Experience setting and adjusting laser parameters including focal length, cutting speed, power, and pierce settings.
• Basic understanding of sheet metal material properties and how gauge and alloy affect cutting behavior.
• Ability to use precision hand measurement tools (calipers, tape measure, square).
• Reliable attendance and a strong commitment to production schedules.

Preferred:

• Experience with high-powered laser systems (6kW and above) and automated material handling.
• Experience in an AS9100D, ISO 9001, or ITAR-regulated manufacturing environment.
• Prior work in aerospace, defense, or precision sheet metal fabrication.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods on a concrete production floor.
• Able to lift and maneuver sheet stock up to 50 lbs. regularly; team lifts required for heavier material.
• Comfortable working in an environment with laser fume extraction equipment and ambient shop noise.

What We Offer

• Competitive hourly pay commensurate with experience.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Stable, long-term employment with a growing company.
• A team-oriented culture with opportunities to expand your skills across other fabrication equipment.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $20.00 - $23.00 per hour

Benefits:

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

Work Location: In person