Laser Operator

Laser OperatorThe Laser Operator sets up and operates Mazak laser machines and Accupress and Absolute press brakes to fabricate sheet metal parts. This role involves loading materials, cutting and forming components, deburring finished parts, and supporting smooth production flow in a busy fabrication environment.ResponsibilitiesSet up and operate Mazak laser machines to cut sheet metal parts according to production specifications.Operate Accupress and Absolute press brakes to form and bend sheet metal components accurately.Load sheet metal onto machines safely and efficiently, ensuring correct material selection and placement.Cut side panels and laser out parts following job orders, drawings, and programmed layouts.Monitor pending materials for the machines and ensure continuous material availability to minimize downtime.Perform deburring of cut and formed parts to remove sharp edges and ensure quality finishes.Identify and handle different metal materials appropriately for laser, press brake, plasma table, or water jet operations.Assist with basic fabrication tasks as needed to support overall production output.Follow established safety procedures and use proper protective equipment while operating machinery.Maintain a clean and organized work area around laser machines, press brakes, and related equipment.Report equipment issues or production concerns promptly to support timely maintenance and consistent quality.Essential Skills2–5 years of experience operating at least one of the following types of equipment: press brake, metal shop laser, plasma table, or water jet.Hands-on experience with press brake operation, including setting up and running forming programs.Experience working with laser equipment in a metal shop environment.Ability to identify metal materials, load programs, set up, and run a plasma table.Experience operating a water jet with metal materials (not plastics).Proficiency in sheet metal handling and fabrication processes.Ability to perform deburring on metal parts to meet quality standards.Comfort working with fabrication equipment such as laser machines, press brakes, turret punch presses, and forklifts.Strong attention to detail and ability to follow technical instructions and production specifications.Commitment to safe work practices in a fabrication and machining environment.Additional Skills & QualificationsExperience with Mazak laser machines is a plus.Experience with Accupress and Absolute press brakes is beneficial.Experience in general metal fabrication and sheet metal work.Ability to work independently with minimal micromanagement while staying focused on production goals.Willingness to support various fabrication tasks, including deburring and material handling.Why Work Here?Employees enjoy a focused yet laid-back culture with minimal micromanagement, allowing them to take ownership of their work while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. The schedule runs Monday through Friday with no weekend work, providing consistent hours and predictable time off. Team members receive annual credit toward proper safety shoes, as well as medical, dental, and vision benefits. Paid time off begins after the first two months and is prorated for the remainder of the year, with increased PTO accrual over subsequent years, supporting long-term stability and time for rest and personal needs.Work EnvironmentThe role is based in a 55,000 square foot, open-bay fabrication facility that is not air conditioned and uses large industrial fans to improve air circulation. The environment is typical of a metal shop with active laser machines, press brakes, and other fabrication equipment. Work is performed on a Monday–Friday schedule with no weekend shifts. Appropriate safety footwear is required, with annual support provided toward proper safety shoes.Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of Clearwater, FL.Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $22.00 - $25.00/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 TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Clearwater, FL.