Cnc Laser Operator

Job Description

CNC Laser Operator

Job Description

The CNC Laser Operator sets up, programs, operates, and maintains CNC laser cutting equipment to cut sheet and stainless metal according to blueprints and work orders. This role combines hands-on machine operation with technical programming, quality inspection, and routine maintenance to ensure precise, high-quality parts are produced safely and efficiently.

Responsibilities

Read and interpret blueprints, engineering plans, work orders, and technical drawings to determine precise cutting instructions and job requirements.

Program the CNC laser machine using CAM software and relevant programming languages (such as G-code) to create and load cutting programs.

Set up CNC laser equipment, including configuring machine parameters, adjusting lenses, securing and loading materials, and preparing tools for production.

Operate the CNC laser cutting machine (including Salvagnini equipment) to cut or engrave sheet and stainless metal, ensuring smooth and efficient production flow.

Load raw materials onto the machine, monitor cutting operations, and safely remove finished parts from the equipment.

Perform routine machine cleaning, calibration, and minor repairs to keep the CNC laser in optimal working condition and minimize downtime.

Measure and inspect finished parts using appropriate tools to verify dimensions, tolerances, and overall quality against specifications.

Conduct ongoing quality checks on both parts and equipment to maintain high standards of accuracy and consistency.

Manage cutting tools by selecting appropriate tooling, monitoring wear, and replacing tools as needed to maintain performance and quality.

Maintain accurate production and quality logs, documenting machine settings, job details, and any issues to support communication between shifts.

Monitor inventory levels for materials, consumables, and supplies, and communicate needs or reorder requirements to ensure uninterrupted production.

Follow all safety procedures and guidelines, including proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), to promote a safe working environment.

Keep the work area clean, organized, and free of hazards, supporting efficient workflow and compliance with facility standards.

Collaborate with team members, leadership, and other departments to support production goals, resolve issues, and continuously improve processes.

Essential Skills

Minimum of 5 years of manufacturing experience, with hands-on exposure to CNC machinery and production environments.

Strong proficiency in CNC machine setup and operation, including experience with laser cutting machines such as Salvagnini equipment.

Ability to read and accurately interpret complex blueprints, technical drawings, engineering plans, and 3D models.

Experience in CNC programming, including understanding of programming languages such as G-code.

Proficiency with Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) software to set up jobs, create programs, retrieve cutting files, and manage workflow.

Demonstrated skill in inspecting finished parts to ensure they meet specified dimensions, tolerances, and quality standards.

Knowledge of tool management, including selecting, caring for, and replacing cutting tools to maintain performance and quality.

Experience with sheet metal fabrication and working with stainless and other relevant materials in a production setting.

Strong mechanical aptitude and proven problem-solving skills to troubleshoot machine and process issues.

High level of attention to detail and a consistent focus on producing high-quality work.

Ability to maintain production and quality documentation accurately and clearly.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent education.

Basic knowledge of CAD/CAM software for job setup and program creation is a plus.

Experience in manufacturing engineering or related technical disciplines is beneficial.

Background in metal fabrication and maintenance production environments is advantageous.

Ability to work effectively on a second shift schedule and adjust to occasional overtime hours.

Strong communication skills to coordinate with team members across different shifts.

Commitment to safety practices and proper use of PPE in an industrial setting.

Why Work Here?

You will join a growing, forward-looking manufacturing operation that offers clear opportunities for advancement and long-term career development. The facility features a remodeled, spacious, and organized environment equipped with new machinery and modern equipment, supporting efficient and safe work. Leadership is present and actively engaged on the floor, providing guidance, support, and open communication. The organization is expanding into a second shift and has secured significant business partnerships, creating stability and room for growth. Competitive wages, investment in new facilities, and a focus on sustainable, innovative products contribute to a positive, future-oriented workplace culture.

Work Environment

This role is based in a modern manufacturing facility on the south side of Columbus, designed to support metal panel production with approximately 51,000 square feet of warehousing and 2,000 square feet of office space. The environment is described as spacious, clean, and organized, with new equipment and machinery in a remodeled setting. The position primarily operates on a second shift, with a typical schedule from 2:30 pm to 10:30 pm, Monday through Saturday. Training is conducted from 12:30 pm to 10:30 pm, Monday through Thursday, and 2:30 pm to 10:30 pm on Friday and Saturday. Overtime may be required, with extended hours such as 4:30 pm to 2:30 am Monday through Thursday and 2:30 pm to 10:30 pm Friday and Saturday, depending on production needs. The facility focuses on sustainable metal wall panel systems and uses CNC laser cutting technology, CAD/CAM tools, and related fabrication equipment. Standard personal protective equipment is required, including steel-toe footwear, eye protection, and hearing protection, reflecting a safety-conscious industrial environment.Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Columbus, OH.Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $28.00 - $28.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision

• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital

• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available

• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)

• Short and long-term disability

• Health Spending Account (HSA)

• Transportation benefits

• Employee Assistance Program

• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Columbus,OH.Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 20, 2026.

About Aerotek

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com 1-888-AEROTEK.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):

We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.Company Description

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.