Lead Laser Programmer (5-Axis CO2 Laser)

Job Description

Job Description

Job Description

We are seeking a Lead Laser Programmer to own the technical operation, programming, and maintenance of our in-house 5-Axis CO2 laser processing department. In this role, you will handle offline programming, machine setup, process development, and preventive maintenance while driving continuous improvement and offering technical leadership to operators.

Key Responsibilities

• Programming & Process Development: Create, prove out, and optimize offline 5-Axis CO2 laser programs to maximize productivity, reduce cycle times, and improve quality. Maintain organized program libraries.
• Production & Fixture Setup: Set up and operate the laser for prototype and production runs, verify first-off parts, and develop workholding or fixture methods.
• Equipment Ownership: Serve as primary owner of the laser system—performing routine preventive maintenance, managing optics/consumables inventory, and coordinating repairs.
• Leadership & Training: Provide technical direction to operators, establish standard operating procedures, and assist with work scheduling to meet delivery dates.
• Project & Technical Support: Provide estimates for quoting, attend engineering meetings for manufacturability reviews, and support CNC programming, troubleshooting, or general manufacturing across R&E facilities during lighter laser cycles.

Qualifications

• Experience: 10+ years of laser programming and multi-axis laser cutting experience preferred (automotive prototype or low-volume background is a plus).
• Software: Hands-on experience with offline programming software (RadMax, Tebis, or similar).
• Technical Skills: Proven ability to read engineering drawings, troubleshoot mechanical issues, and perform routine machine maintenance.
• Leadership: Prior experience guiding, training, or supervising machine operators.
• Travel & Physical: Valid driver's license for occasional short-term travel to customer sites or other R&E facilities.

Required Skills

• Strong mechanical aptitude, problem-solving, and process-optimization skills.
• Excellent organizational ability with an "ownership mindset" toward shop equipment.
• Clear communication and team leadership skills.
• Flexibility to assist other manufacturing departments or travel as workload permits.

Performance Expectations

• High laser uptime, equipment reliability, and completion of preventive maintenance.
• Optimized cycle times, reduced scrap/rework, and high program quality.
• Effective operator training and safe, organized shop operations.

Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Ongoing training and professional development opportunities
• Overtime opportunities

R&E Automated is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in our workforce.

R&E Automated Systems ( is the industry leader in Automotive Controls, Robotics, Joining, and Plant Maintenance. In addition, Engineering Services, including Mechanical, Quality, Simulation, and Service Part Stamping, Assembly, and Coating.

Company Description

R&E Automated Systems ( is the industry leader in Automotive Controls, Robotics, Joining, and Plant Maintenance. In addition, Engineering Services, including Mechanical, Quality, Simulation, and Service Part Stamping, Assembly, and Coating.