Laser Operator Apprentice

Clow Stamping Company; Merrifield (VA); On-site; USD 56,845,286 - 59,600,486; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

401(k) with company match

Paid holidays

Paid time off

On-site fitness center

Temperature-controlled facility

Life and disability insurance

FSA/HSA options

Job summary

Clow Stamping Company is hiring for a Laser Operator Apprentice with paid training and real-world instruction in setting up and operating laser cutting machines. The role starts at a base rate with opportunities for pay progression as you advance into the Laser Operator position.

No prior experience is required; successful completion of the apprentice program leads to a pay raise and growth within the manufacturing team. Training includes CAD/PEP software and material-handling skills.

Qualifications

• No experience required; training from the ground up.
• 6–12 months of relevant experience preferred.
• Ability to lift and handle materials up to 100 lbs.

Responsibilities

• Learn to set up and operate laser cutting machines according to job specifications
• Retrieve and stage raw materials using forklifts or cranes to support production
• Load programs into the laser control system and assist with troubleshooting
• Monitor the cutting process to ensure precision and quality
• Inspect finished parts, remove detabbing, and organize or stack parts according to work instructions
• Follow department procedures, safety requirements, and work instructions
• Assist with basic adjustments to laser settings under supervision

Skills

Manual/mechanical aptitude

Math skills

Self-motivation

Tools

CAD software

PEP software

Job description

LASER OPERATOR APPRENTICE – PAID TRAINING and $1000 hiring bonus after 6 months.

Start a skilled manufacturing career with hands‑on training on advanced laser cutting equipment.

At Clow, you’ll learn how to set up and operate laser cutting machines that produce precision metal parts used by leading OEM manufacturers. You’ll work in a fast‑paced production environment focused on quality, accuracy, and safety.

No experience required – we train you from the ground up. Upon successful completion of the apprentice program and promotion to Laser Operator, employees receive a pay increase.

Shifts Available:

• Shift 15: 5:00am - 3:00pm, Monday - Thursday

• Shift 16: 3:00pm – 1:00am, Monday – Thursday (+$1.25/hour shift differential)
• Shift 21: 6:00am - 6:00pm, Friday - Sunday (+$3.50/hour shift differential)

Starting Rate of Pay:

• $19.80 per hour base rate. Candidates with relevant experience may be eligible for base pay up to $20.80 per hour.

As a Laser Operator Apprentice, you will:

• Learn to set up and operate laser cutting machines according to job specifications
• Retrieve and stage raw materials using forklifts or cranes to support production
• Load programs into the laser control system and assist with troubleshooting
• Monitor the cutting process to ensure precision and quality
• Inspect finished parts, remove excess material (detabbing), and organize or stack parts according to work instructions
• Follow department procedures, safety requirements, and work instructions
• Assist with basic adjustments to laser settings under supervision

What You’ll Gain

• Pathway toward becoming a fully qualified Laser Operator through hands‑on training and development
• Pay progression as you advance into the Laser Operator role
• Hands‑on experience with advanced laser cutting machinery
• Training in CAD and PEP software for programming
• Forklift and crane certification through Clow
• A foundation for growth within our manufacturing team
• 6–12 months of relevant experience is preferred
• Mechanical aptitude and safe handling capability for large or heavy materials
• Proficient math skills for interpreting dimensions and measurements
• Ability to multitask and manage several responsibilities at a time
• Ability to retain and apply technical knowledge related to laser operations and materials
• Self‑motivated with the ability to work independently throughout the shift

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods
• Ability to lift and handle materials up to 100 lbs
• Frequent bending, reaching, material handling, and part movement
• Required PPE: eye protection, hearing protection, MET guard safety shoes

• $1,000 Hiring Bonus – Paid after 6 months of employment. Offer valid for select positions hired between Memorial Day and Labor Day 2026.
• Annual pay‑for‑performance increases
• Paid holidays and paid time off
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• FSA/HSA options
• Employer‑paid life and disability coverage
• 401(k) with company match
• 24/7 on‑site fitness center
• Temperature‑controlled facility

Clow Stamping Company is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, marital status, pregnancy, familial status, disability, genetic information, labor organization membership, public assistance status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Applicants and employees are evaluated based on their conduct, experience, and performance, in accordance with Company policies.