Laser Machine Operator

AOC Metal Works - VA; Chester (VA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

AOC Metal Works in Virginia is seeking a Laser Operator who will set up, run, and maintain laser equipment to cut, engrave, or shape metal. You will inspect parts, perform daily checks, load materials, select programs, and follow strict safety protocols.

The ideal candidate reads blueprints, maintains quality, communicates with engineering and production teams, and works in a physical, fast-paced industrial environment with proper PPE.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; 2-3 years in a similar industry preferred.
• Basic computer skills to operate CNC/laser controls and read screens.

Responsibilities

• Set up, adjust, and operate laser machines for cutting, engraving, or shaping metal.
• Inspect parts and perform daily checks to ensure quality and safety.
• Load materials, select programs/lenses, and monitor laser cutting process.
• Read blueprints or drawings and communicate with team to meet production goals.
• Maintain safety protocols and proper packaging of finished products.

Skills

Blueprint reading

Basic computer skills

Adaptability

Attention to detail

Safety conscious

Verbal communication

Troubleshooting

Physical stamina

Education

HS diploma or GED

Job description

At AOC Metal Works, it is our policy to be number one in quality, delivery, and customer service. We strive to exceed our customers' expectations and promote through our continuous improvement efforts, while providing a safe and teamwork-based work environment.

Position Description Summary:

A Laser Operator sets up, runs, and maintains laser machines to precisely cut, engrave, or shape metal, focusing on quality by inspecting parts, performing daily checks, loading materials, selecting programs/lenses, and following strict safety protocols. The operator sets up the machine by entering the required parameters, positions sheet metal accurately, and oversees the laser cutting process. The successful candidate is able to accurately read blueprints or drawings, and will have skills for smooth production.

Principal Accountabilities:

(The following is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. It is not an exhaustive list of all expectations.)

• Follow all company rules, quality standards (ISO) and safety policies (OSHA).
• Set-up, adjust and prepare turret punch/laser combination. Set-up includes but is not limited to: finding proper tooling per set up. Check the heights of tooling and adjust. Set-up and adjustment of material. Locate and upload proper program from machine control. Ensure optimal laser cutting conditions. Provide immediate feedback, to supervisor on jobs not meeting set-up and/or production standards.
• Work with engineering and operations to ensure finished products are produced in the safest, effective manner, while maintaining high quality control standards.
• De-burr parts with file or grinder, as needed.
• Responsible for proper packaging, identifying and moving all finished products to the proper location.
• Ensure all equipment, and area, is properly set-up in a safe manner and that all safety devices are in use. Performs set-up inspections, first piece inspections as well as all subsequent inspections as required by QC standards.
• Monitor equipment and tool wear, and request external maintenance when required.
• Work with Supervisor, Programmer/Mfg. Engineer and Engineering to make constant improvements in tooling, programs and lean activities.
• Assist with any other duties as assigned.
• Follow all company policies and procedures.
• Ensure a safe working environment through consistent practice of safety programs and procedures.

Education, Knowledge, Experience and Skills Required for Position

• High school diploma or GED; 2-3 years' experience in similar industry, trade or profession preferred
• Basic computer skills
• Ability to learn quickly.
• Ability to read work orders and effectively communicate verbally with others
• Strong attention to detail and the ability to follow instruction and written processes
• work safely and efficiently
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills
• Must be able to frequently lift and/or move items up to 50 pounds
• Flexible schedule is required (requires occasional Saturday work)

Physical Demands:

• Lift, carry, push and or pull 1 – 50 lbs. frequently.
• Squat/kneel, bend/stoop, crawl, twist/turn, grasp and reach overhead and outward frequently.
• Sit, stand and walk for 1 – 10 hours per day.
• Work in a fast-paced industrial environment wearing hearing protection, eye protection, steel-toed shoes and other appropriate protective clothing.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally exposed to moving mechanical parts, machinery, and material handling equipment. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. Facility is not climate-controlled.