Laser Operator (1st Shift)

Louis Industries, Inc.; Paynesville (MN); On-site; USD 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible schedules

Full benefits

Competitive pay

Job summary

Louis Industries, Inc. is seeking a Laser Operator in Paynesville, Minnesota. This role involves operating laser cutting and punching machines, performing quality inspections, and maintaining equipment. Ideal candidates are those with mechanical aptitude, effective communication skills, and the ability to read blueprints. The company offers flexible schedules, full benefits, and opportunities for both experienced operators and newcomers in manufacturing.

Qualifications

• Ability to read blueprints and use inspection equipment.
• Certified crane operator experience preferred.
• Mechanical aptitude and experience with hydraulic systems is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Operate laser cutting and/or punching machines regularly.
• Perform first-part and in-process inspections per work order requirements.
• Startup and shutdown procedures for laser machines.

Skills

Effective communication skills

Mechanical aptitude

Knowledge of inventory control

Blueprint reading

Tools

Inspection equipment

CAD software

Small hand and power tools

Job description

Louis Industries is one of the most modern steel processing facilities in central Minnesota. We employ around 100 people and serve over 180 customers predominantly located in the upper Midwest. Our customers vary from small, local owned companies to multi-million-dollar Fortune 500 companies. The parts Louis fabricates are found in products and equipment that are shipped globally. We utilize the latest technology available in laser, punching, forming, welding and quality control equipment, with an emphasis on supporting lean, rapid response manufacturing to support our customer’s varied needs. We strive to look toward the future, invest in automation, and continuously improve our processes, production capabilities, and our people. In addition, we are a major regional supplier with inventory of mild steel, stainless steel, and aluminum.

We are employee focused, offer flexible schedules, full benefits, and competitive pay.

About the Role

The Laser Operator is responsible for operating and supporting laser cutting and punching operations, including machine setup, productivity, maintenance, and quality. This role plays a key part in ensuring safe, efficient production and high-quality parts.

This position is open to both experienced operators and individuals who are new to manufacturing. We provide hands‑on training and support to help motivated individuals develop the skills needed to be successful in this role.

What You’ll Do

• Operate laser cutting and/or punching machines on a regular basis
• Load, edit, and run machine programs
• Load raw material into sheet bays
• Maintain cutting quality while achieving acceptable feed rates
• Perform first‑part and in‑process inspections per work order requirements
• Startup and shutdown procedures
• Window cleaning and nozzle centering
• Cleaning dust bins and replacing cutting beds
• Maintaining a clean and organized work area
• Ensure all products meet prescribed quality standards
• Handle assorted steel raw material and steel scrap
• Separate ("pick") parts from laser‑cut skeletons and stack onto pallets or containers
• Package parts using banding or shrink wrap, as required
• Safely operate forklifts to load/unload material and move completed parts
• Operate small hand and power tools as needed
• Follow all safety regulations and company policies
• Support continuous improvement and process improvement initiatives

What You’ll Need

• Certified crane operator experience preferred
• Knowledge of inventory control and manufacturing processes
• Ability to read blueprints and use inspection equipment
• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing
• CAD training or experience preferred
• Mechanical aptitude; experience with electrical, pneumatic, or hydraulic systems is a plus

Schedule

1st shift - Monday through Thursday 7am-4:30pm and Fridays 7am-11am