Laser Machine Operator - Day Shift

AOC Metal Works; Chester (VA); On-site; USD 25,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

A Laser Operator at AOC Metal Works will set up, run, and maintain laser cutting equipment to accurately cut and engrave metal parts. You will read blueprints, adjust tooling and parameters, load materials, and monitor quality while following strict safety protocols.

Ideal candidates have a high school diploma or GED, 2–3 years in a similar environment, basic computing skills, and the ability to lift up to 50 pounds. Occasional Saturday work may be required.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required or equivalent
• 2–3 years' experience in a similar metalworking environment preferred
• Basic computer skills and ability to read work orders

Responsibilities

• Follow safety policies and quality standards (ISO/OSHA)
• Set up, adjust and operate laser cutting equipment and tooling
• Read blueprints, load materials, and monitor the laser process
• Perform inspections and ensure parts meet specifications
• Move and package finished products and maintain clean work area

Skills

Blueprint reading

Laser operation

Quality inspection

Safety protocols

Reading work orders

Communication

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Laser cutter

Turret punch/laser

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.