Entry-Level Laser Operator / Shop Helper

Opti Staffing; Portland (OR); On-site; USD 42,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

Opti Staffing is seeking an entry-level Laser Operator / Shop Helper in Milwaukie, OR. The role involves loading/unloading sheet metal, feeding laser equipment, and assisting production teams in a busy metal fabrication shop.

You will train on CNC laser and fabrication equipment, with a Monday–Friday day shift and growth opportunities as you gain experience. This is a stable, hands‑on manufacturing position offering skill development and long‑term employment.

Qualifications

• Reliable attendance and strong work ethic required.
• Willingness to learn and take direction in a fast-paced shop.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and perform physical shop work.
• Comfort with basic hand tools and measuring tools.
• Commitment to workplace safety and teamwork.

Responsibilities

• Assist with loading and unloading sheet metal and parts.
• Feed material into laser cutting equipment.
• Operate equipment according to established procedures after training.
• Inspect parts for obvious defects and quality issues.
• Remove finished parts and organize materials.
• Assist machine operators and other production team members.
• Perform basic measuring and material handling.
• Keep the work area clean, organized, and safe.
• Follow all safety procedures and production instructions.
• Learn how to read basic shop drawings and production paperwork.

Skills

Reliable attendance

Willingness to learn

Stand for long periods

Physical fitness

Hand tools

Measuring tools

Attention to detail

Safety mindset

Education

HS diploma or GED

Tools

Forklift

Calipers

Tape measures

Job description

Entry-Level Laser Operator / Shop Helper

Location: Milwaukie, Oregon

Pay: $20.00–$21.00/hr

Schedule: Day Shift, Monday–Friday

Who We Are: Our Client is seeking a motivated Entry-Level Laser Operator / Feeder / Shop Helper to join a busy metal fabrication shop. This is a great opportunity for someone looking to start or grow a career in manufacturing, metal fabrication, and CNC equipment operation.

What You’ll Do:

• Assist with loading and unloading sheet metal and parts
• Feed material into laser cutting equipment
• Operate equipment according to established procedures after training
• Inspect parts for obvious defects and quality issues
• Remove finished parts and organize materials
• Assist machine operators and other production team members
• Perform basic measuring and material handling
• Keep the work area clean, organized, and safe
• Follow all safety procedures and production instructions
• Learn how to read basic shop drawings and production paperwork

What’s In It for You:

• Entry-level opportunity with on-the-job training
• Monday–Friday day shift
• Opportunity to learn CNC laser and metal fabrication equipment
• Stable, long-term employment opportunity
• Opportunity for advancement and increased responsibilities
• Hands‑on experience in a manufacturing environment

What You Need to Have:

• Reliable attendance and strong work ethic
• Willingness to learn and take direction
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment
• Ability to stand for extended periods and perform physical shop work
• Ability to safely lift and move materials with assistance when needed
• Basic ability to use hand tools and measuring tools
• Strong attention to detail
• Commitment to workplace safety

The Musts:

• Dependable and punctual
• Safety‑minded
• Willing to learn
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team
• Ability to maintain a clean and organized work area
• Comfortable working around machinery and in a manufacturing environment

Preferred:

• Previous manufacturing, warehouse, fabrication, or construction experience
• Experience using hand or power tools
• Basic experience with calipers, tape measures, or other measuring tools
• Previous CNC or machine operating experience
• Experience handling sheet metal or other raw materials
• Forklift experience
• High school diploma or GED