Laser Set Up Operator

CNC Laser Machine Setup Operator This role is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining CNC fiber and CO? laser cutting machines to produce precise sheet-metal components. The operator prepares the laser table, loads materials, selects and adjusts cutting programs, configures cutting parameters, and continuously monitors the cutting process to ensure all finished parts meet customer quality standards. The position involves performing first-article and in-process inspections, following job travelers and production schedules, maintaining a clean and organized work area, and promptly reporting any quality or machine issues. The role requires standing for extended periods and safely lifting materials and parts up to approximately 50 pounds. Responsibilities Set up CNC laser cutting machines, including preparing the laser table, loading sheet-metal material, and ensuring proper fixturing and alignment. Select, load, and adjust cutting programs, including nesting programs, to optimize material usage and part quality. Configure and fine-tune cutting parameters such as speed, power, focus, and assist gas pressure for fiber and CO? laser systems. Safely operate CNC laser machines throughout the production run, monitoring cutting quality and machine performance. Perform first-article inspections to verify that initial parts meet dimensional and quality requirements before releasing full production. Conduct in-process inspections using calipers, micrometers, and other precision measurement tools to maintain consistent quality. Read and interpret blueprints, job travelers, and production schedules to ensure correct part specifications and routing. Follow established quality assurance procedures and document inspection results as required. Identify, troubleshoot, and correct common machine and process issues related to laser cutting operations. Communicate any quality concerns, machine problems, or material issues to supervisors or maintenance personnel in a timely manner. Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area around the laser machines and related equipment. Support general sheet-metal fabrication activities as needed, including working with welded components and related processes. Handle and move raw materials and finished parts, including lifting items up to approximately 50 pounds and standing for extended periods during shifts. Essential Skills At least 3 years of experience in CNC laser machine operation, setup, and turnovers. Hands-on experience operating and setting up AMADA fiber lasers, including models such as Regius, Ensis, and 4020. Proficiency in laser operation for sheet-metal fabrication, including configuring cutting parameters for fiber and CO? systems. Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings for sheet-metal components. Strong skills using precision measurement tools such as micrometers and calipers for first-article and in-process inspections. Experience with laser cutter programming and nesting programs to maximize material utilization. Demonstrated capability in machine operation, production support, and troubleshooting laser cutting processes. Knowledge of basic quality assurance practices in a manufacturing environment. Ability to stand for extended periods and safely lift materials and parts up to approximately 50 pounds. Additional Skills & Qualifications Experience working in a sheet-metal fabrication environment, including familiarity with welded components. Background using AMADA laser equipment and related control systems. Comfort working with inspection tools and documenting measurement results for quality control. Ability to follow detailed job travelers and production schedules in a fast-paced shop environment. Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing accurate, high-quality parts. Solid problem-solving skills to identify and correct cutting or machine issues quickly. Effective communication skills to coordinate with supervisors and team members regarding quality and production status. Why Work Here? You will join a growing manufacturing environment that offers clear room for professional development and advancement. The team values hands-on expertise, encourages continuous learning on advanced laser technologies, and provides opportunities to expand your skills in fabrication and quality assurance. The culture emphasizes reliability, craftsmanship, and collaborative problem-solving, creating a setting where your contributions are recognized and your technical growth is supported. Work Environment The role is based in a non-climate-controlled machine shop with active CNC laser cutting and sheet-metal fabrication operations. You will work around AMADA fiber laser systems and related equipment in a production environment that requires consistent attention to safety and quality. The position involves standing for extended periods and handling materials and parts that may weigh up to approximately 50 pounds. Expect a hands-on, industrial setting with typical shop noise, equipment movement, and a focus on maintaining an organized and safe work area. Job Type & Location: This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Grand Prairie, TX. Pay and Benefits: The pay range for this position is $27.00 - $32.00/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) Workplace Type: This is a fully onsite position in Grand Prairie, TX. Application Deadline: This position is anticipated to close on Sep 29, 2026.