Laser Operator

Job Title: Laser Operator

Job Description

This role focuses on setting up, operating, and performing basic maintenance on a CO2 6K Bystronic laser to cut metal components according to precise specifications. The Laser Operator ensures high-quality output, optimizes machine performance, and supports material handlers to maintain efficient production in a custom metal fabrication environment.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate a CO2 6K Bystronic laser (26') to cut parts from thin gauge and structural steel, aluminum, and other metals.
• Work with mild steel up to 1 inch thick and stainless steel up to 5/8 inch thick, ensuring accurate and consistent cuts.
• Interpret and follow blueprints and shop drawings to cut parts according to detailed specifications and tolerances.
• Perform basic troubleshooting on the laser equipment to resolve operational issues and minimize downtime.
• Carry out preventative maintenance tasks on the laser to keep it running safely and efficiently.
• Run quality checks on parts after laser operation to verify dimensions, quality, and conformance to specifications.
• Instruct material handlers on preparation and setup procedures to ensure efficient workflow and optimal machine utilization.
• Collaborate with team members on the shop floor to coordinate jobs, prioritize work, and maintain smooth production processes.
• Provide productive leadership and guidance to less experienced or entry-level team members to support their development and maintain high standards of work.
• Follow all shop safety procedures and maintain a clean and organized work area around the laser and material handling zones.

Essential Skills

• At least 2 years of experience operating a laser in a metal fabrication, production, or manufacturing environment.
• Hands-on experience setting up and operating CNC laser equipment for cutting thin gauge and structural steel parts.
• Ability to understand, interpret, and work from blueprints and shop drawings.
• Proficiency in performing basic troubleshooting on laser equipment and related systems.
• Experience running quality checks on laser-cut parts to ensure they meet blueprint specifications.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team in a shop environment.
• Capability to provide clear, productive instructions to entry-level team members and material handlers.
• Familiarity with working with materials such as mild steel, stainless steel, and aluminum.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience operating Bystronic brand laser equipment.
• Custom metal fabrication or similar production environments.
• Comfort working with both thin gauge materials and heavier structural steel.
• Strong communication skills to coordinate with team members and provide feedback.
• Attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality, accurate parts.

Why Work Here?

Team members join a medium-sized custom metal shop that values a strong, family-oriented culture and open communication. Leadership maintains an open-door policy and actively encourages feedback from employees, creating an environment where ideas are heard and contributions matter. This setting offers the opportunity to work closely with a supportive team, build skills on advanced equipment, and grow within a collaborative and respectful workplace.

Work Environment

The role is based in a custom metal shop with a medium-sized, close-knit team and a strong family-style culture. The facility operates with both bay doors open in the winter, and the shop is not heated, so employees need to be comfortable working in cold weather conditions. The environment includes CNC laser equipment, including a CO2 6K Bystronic laser, and involves regular handling and processing of mild steel, stainless steel, and aluminum. The shop promotes open communication, with leadership maintaining an open-door policy and encouraging employee feedback. Work is hands-on and production-focused, with typical metal fabrication shop noise, equipment, and safety practices.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Vancouver, WA.

The pay range for this position is $24.00 - $28.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

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)

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Vancouver, WA.

This position is anticipated to close on Oct 29, 2026.

This is a fully onsite position in Vancouver,WA.

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.