Laser Operator - 1st Shift

Utility Metals; Louisville, Northern (KY, KY); Hybrid; USD 25,000 - 39,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, Dental, & Vision

401(k)

Paid time off

Bonus opportunities

Job summary

Utility Metals in Louisville, KY is seeking a reliable Laser Operator to set up, calibrate, and run our Trumpf TruLaser 1040m and 1040a systems to precision-cut heavy-duty American steel components for storage products. You will read technical blueprints, execute nesting programs, monitor optics, and perform quality checks to uphold our obsessively overbuilt standard.

The role requires physical stamina, strong technical aptitude, and strict safety discipline.

Qualifications

• Prior experience operating 2D CNC laser cutting machinery.
• Able to lift heavy steel objects and stand for long periods.
• Must be able to read engineering drawings/blueprints and perform calculations.
• Strong mechanical and technical aptitude. Safety-focused and able to pass checks.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate Trumpf TruLaser 1040m and 1040a flatbed laser cutting machines.
• Load and execute CNC cutting programs, optimizing material yield and nesting configurations.
• Perform machine adjustments including focal parameters, gas pressures, gas selections, and nozzle alignment for different material thicknesses.
• Load and handle raw American steel sheets onto the machine bed safely.
• Inspect finished parts against engineering blueprints to guarantee dimensional accuracy and edge quality.
• Perform routine preventive maintenance including cleaning optics and monitoring dust extraction.
• Troubleshoot processing issues to minimize downtime and scrap material.
• Maintain safety standards by wearing laser-safe PPE and keeping workspace clean.

Skills

Blueprint reading

Mathematical calculations

Attention to detail

Physical stamina

Safety consciousness

Tools

Trumpf TruLaser 1040m

Trumpf TruLaser 1040a

Job description

Description

Who We Are:

We build products and relationships that last a lifetime! No really, that’s what we do. We are a successful family business with a long-term record of steady growth, and we are determined to accelerate our trajectory. Our diverse team members who speak 22 languages are passionate about their company and their co-workers. We reward for performance.

Check out our website at www.strong-hold.com

We Are Not:

• Fancy - as manufacturers we believe practical, clean facilities are required to make quality products and retain the best team.
• Transactional - we have long-term relationships with our team members and most valuable customers.
• Satisfied - we celebrate achievement, then set our sights on new goals.

What We're Looking For:

We are seeking a reliable and motivated Laser Operator to join our manufacturing team. In this role, you will be responsible for setting up, calibrating, and operating our Trumpf TruLaser 1040m and 1040a CNC fiber laser cutting systems to precision-cut heavy-duty American steel components for our industrial storage products. You will read technical blueprints, execute nesting programs, monitor machine optics, and conduct rigorous quality checks to ensure our parts maintain our signature "obsessively overbuilt" standard. This position requires a strong technical aptitude, attention to detail, physical stamina, and an uncompromising commitment to safety.

• Meet production goals, maintain tight geometric tolerances, and drive continuous improvement.
• You are passionate about craftsmanship, precision, and building things that last.
• You will receive specialized on-the-job training tailored to our heavy-duty Trumpf laser equipment.

Responsibilities:

• Set up and operate Trumpf TruLaser 1040m and 1040a flatbed laser cutting machines.
• Load and execute CNC cutting programs, optimizing material yield and nesting configurations.
• Perform machine adjustments including focal parameters, gas pressures, gas selections, and nozzle alignment for different material thicknesses.
• Load and handle raw industrial-grade American steel sheets onto the machine bed or automated shuttle tables safely.
• Inspect finished parts using calipers, micrometers, and gauges against engineering blueprints to guarantee dimensional accuracy and edge quality.
• Perform routine preventive maintenance including cleaning optics, changing nozzle tips, and monitoring dust extraction systems.
• Troubleshoot processing issues like dross, burrs, or cutting interruptions to minimize downtime and scrap material.
• Maintain safety standards by wearing appropriate laser-safe personal protective equipment (PPE) and ensuring a clean workspace.

Requirements

• Prior experience operating 2D CNC laser cutting machinery or working in precision sheet metal fabrication is highly valued.
• Ability to lift heavy steel objects and stand for long periods of time.
• Must be able to read engineering drawings/blueprints, a standard tape measure, and perform accurate mathematical calculations.
• Strong mechanical and technical aptitude
• Work environment is a non-temperature-regulated facility with moderate to loud noise levels.
• Must pass a drug screen, physical, and criminal background check.

Benefits:

• Competitive compensation, biannual increases & bonuses
• Benefits-Health, Dental, & Vision
• Employer Paid Benefits-Life & Disability
• 401(k)
• Paid time off