Laser Operator

Job Title: Laser Operator Job Description

The Laser Operator sets up and operates CNC laser cutting machines to produce high-quality sheet metal components in line with engineering drawings and production requirements. This role focuses on precise laser cutting, careful inspection of finished parts, and continuous monitoring of machine performance to maintain efficiency and product quality while following all safety and housekeeping standards.

Responsibilities

• Operate CNC laser cutting machines to cut sheet metal parts according to engineering drawings and production specifications.

• Load raw materials onto the laser cutting equipment and ensure correct positioning and secure clamping before operation.

• Select and load appropriate cutting programs based on job requirements and material type.

• Adjust machine settings, including cutting parameters and focus, to achieve optimal cut quality and production efficiency.

• Monitor machine performance throughout production runs and respond promptly to alarms, errors, or irregularities.

• Identify production issues such as poor cut quality, dimensional deviations, or equipment malfunctions and make necessary adjustments during operation.

• Inspect finished parts for dimensional accuracy using measuring tools such as micrometers and other precision instruments.

• Check surface quality of cut parts and verify compliance with quality control procedures and specifications.

• Maintain accurate records of production activities, including quantities produced, materials used, and any issues encountered.

• Manage material inventory related to laser cutting operations, including tracking usage and reporting low stock levels.

• Perform routine cleaning and basic maintenance of laser cutting machines to ensure reliable operation.

• Follow all safety procedures, use appropriate protective equipment, and maintain a clean and organized work area.

• Collaborate with fabrication and production team members to resolve issues and improve process efficiency.

Essential Skills

• Hands-on experience operating CNC laser cutting machines for sheet metal fabrication.

• Proficiency in laser operation, including starting, stopping, and adjusting laser cutting processes.

• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and blueprints to produce accurate parts.

• Skill in using micrometers and other precision measuring tools to verify dimensional accuracy.

• Experience with laser cutters, including fiber laser systems, in a production environment.

• Strong machine operation skills with attention to detail and process consistency.

• Troubleshooting skills to identify and correct issues with cut quality, machine performance, or setup.

• Understanding of basic fabrication processes and quality control practices.

• Commitment to following safety procedures and maintaining housekeeping standards in a manufacturing setting.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Previous experience in a dedicated Laser Operator role or similar position in metal fabrication.

• Familiarity with different types of laser cutting equipment, including fiber laser machines.

• Comfort working with production documentation and recording operational data.

• Ability to work collaboratively with other production and fabrication staff.

• Strong focus on accuracy, quality, and continuous improvement in a manufacturing environment.

Why Work Here?

The organization offers a stable manufacturing environment where you can apply and grow your technical skills with advanced laser cutting technology. You will work alongside experienced fabrication professionals who value precision, safety, and continuous improvement. The culture emphasizes reliability, teamwork, and pride in producing high-quality metal components, providing opportunities to expand your capabilities and contribute to efficient production processes.

Work Environment

This role is based in a manufacturing and fabrication facility focused on sheet metal production. You will work directly with CNC laser cutting machines, including fiber laser systems, and handle raw sheet metal materials throughout your shift. The environment involves standing for extended periods, working around industrial equipment, and following strict safety and housekeeping standards to keep the area clean and organized. You will use precision measuring tools such as micrometers and other inspection equipment as part of routine quality checks. Work hours typically follow structured production schedules, and you will collaborate closely with other fabrication and production team members on the shop floor.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Des Plaines, IL.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $22.00 - $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)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Des Plaines,IL.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Oct 16, 2026.

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.