Plasma Operator

Plasma Operator

A Plasma Operator performs duties necessary to set up and operate plasma cutting equipment to cut material according to customer specifications and blueprints. In addition to preparing orders according to specifications, a Plasma Operator is responsible for proper machine set-up, communication with proceeding shifts, and the safe operation and handling of material and equipment.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Work with parts and material by either moving by hand or when necessary, using jib or overhead crane and/or forklift.
• Set up and operate CNC plasma cutting machine to cut steel and other materials according to blueprints and customer specifications.
• Load and unload raw material onto the cutting table and remove finished parts.
• Read and interpret blueprints, work orders, and nesting layouts to determine job requirements.
• Monitor cutting operations to ensure proper cut quality, kerf, and efficiency.
• Inspect finished parts to ensure compliance with customer specifications using appropriate measuring tools.
• Remove slag and perform basic part cleanup as required.
• Complete inspection reports after verifying dimensions and quality of finished parts.
• Perform routine machine maintenance including cleaning torch components, replacing consumable, and maintaining work area.
• Communicate effectively with team members and proceeding shifts regarding job status and any issues.
• Complete assigned duties in accordance with safety policies and practices. This includes regard for individual safety, the safety of other employees, and the safe use of equipment in the workplace.
• Wear approved personal protective equipment such as safety shoes, gloves, and safety glasses.
• Perform other duties as needed given by the supervisor, lead person, or management.

Working Conditions

Working conditions may consist of loud noise, vibratory tools, repetitive motions, airborne particles such as metal dust and chips, moving machinery and exposure to chemicals, fumes and bright light. Physical requirements include continual standing, walking, lifting, twisting with periodic bending, climbing, stooping, crawling and crouching.

Knowledge, Abilities, Skills

• A minimum of one (1) year previous plasma cutting or CNC machine operation experience in an industrial atmosphere is preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and work orders.
• Ability to read and understand measuring tools and equipment such as a tape measure, calipers and micrometers
• Knowledge of plasma cutting equipment, materials, and cutting processes.
• Basic understanding of CNC controls and nesting programs is preferred.
• Ability to safely operate overhead cranes and forklifts.
• Ability to perform math including addition, subtraction, multiplication and division of fractions as well as convert fractions to decimals or vice versa.
• Ability to lift and move up to 75 pounds, as well as lift and move heavier objects with the assistance of cranes, forklifts, or another employee.
• Knowledge of general shop procedures and rules including safety precautions.
• Ability and willingness to cooperate with co-workers and work as part of a production team.

Plasma Operators will work in an indoor shop environment with moderate to high noise levels, bright light exposure, and cutting fumes. They will need to be able to lift, stand, bend, grasp, reach, and twist while standing for extended periods of time.

Some of the risk factors for their job will include repetitive motions, awkward postures, static postures, reaching above the shoulder and moving heavy objects.

Main hazards include hands and fingers due to moving parts and sharp edges of cut material, as well as eye hazards from bright arc light exposure. Additional hazards may include foot, body, fall, and noise hazards, along with risks from improper lifting, tripping over materials, and mishandling equipment.

Preventitive measures include using proper PPE (safety glasses, steel-toe shoes, hearing protection, face shields when required, etc.), following proper lifting techniques, maintaining awareness of surroundings, and ensuring machines are operated safely and according to procedures.