CNC Laser Cutting Setup & Programming Specialist

WAI Global; Spartanburg (SC); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

WAI Global in Spartanburg, SC, is seeking a CNC Laser Cutting Setup & Programming Specialist responsible for translating drawings into programs, machine setup, operation and in-process quality checks.

You will work with fiber and/or CO2 laser systems, tune parameters by material type and thickness, and collaborate with engineering to ensure safety and performance standards are met. PPE is required on the manufacturing floor.

Qualifications

• 3+ years programming and operating laser cutting machines.
• Proficiency with CAD/CAM software.
• Solid grasp of mechanical drawings, tolerances, and material behavior.

Responsibilities

• Review technical drawings, blueprints, and CAD files to understand tolerances, materials, and surface finish targets.
• Create or refine cutting programs using G-code and CAD/CAM tools such as Fusion 360, AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Mastercam.
• Set up and operate laser cutting machines (fiber and/or CO2) to produce high-precision parts.
• Tune cutting parameters by material type and thickness to achieve quality results while minimizing scrap.
• Perform routine maintenance and safety checks to keep equipment running reliably and efficiently.
• Inspect first-article and production parts with precision instruments to verify dimensional and surface finish requirements.
• Document machine settings, programs, and maintenance activities to ensure repeatability and traceability.
• Collaborate with engineering and production teams so tooling and processes meet safety and performance standards.
• Support workflow improvements that reduce manual labor and streamline throughput; participate in continuous improvement efforts.

Skills

G-code programming

CAD/CAM proficiency

Precision measurement

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Technical diploma or associate degree in machining/manufacturing/mechatronics

Tools

CNC Laser Cutter

Fusion 360

AutoCAD

SolidWorks

Mastercam

Job description

About The Role

As a CNC Laser Cutting Setup & Programming Specialist, you will own the full lifecycle of precision laser cutting—from translating drawings to programs, to machine setup, operation, and in-process quality checks. You will work with fiber and/or CO2 laser systems to deliver tight-tolerance components safely and efficiently.

A Day in This Role

• Review technical drawings, blueprints, and CAD files to understand tolerances, materials, and surface finish targets.
• Create or refine cutting programs using G-code and/or CAD/CAM tools such as Fusion 360, AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Mastercam.
• Set up and operate laser cutting machines (fiber and/or CO2) to produce high-precision parts.
• Tune cutting parameters by material type and thickness to achieve quality results while minimizing scrap.
• Perform routine maintenance and safety checks to keep equipment running reliably and efficiently.
• Inspect first-article and production parts with precision instruments (calipers, micrometers, gauges) to verify dimensional and surface finish requirements.
• Document machine settings, programs, and maintenance activities to ensure repeatability and traceability.
• Collaborate with engineering and production teams so tooling and processes meet safety and performance standards.
• Support workflow improvements that reduce manual labor and streamline throughput; participate in continuous improvement efforts.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; a technical diploma or associate degree in machining, manufacturing, or mechatronics is preferred.
• 3+ years of experience programming and operating laser cutting machines.
• Proficiency with CAD/CAM software.
• Solid grasp of mechanical drawings, tolerances, and material behavior.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Comfort working independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.

Work Environment

• Manufacturing floor setting with exposure to machinery, noise, and metalworking processes.
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required.

Tools & Technologies

• CNC Laser Cutter
• CAM Software (e.g., Fusion 360, AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Mastercam)