Laser Technical Specialist

Harmonics-Recruitment & Search; Ennis (TX); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Harmonics-Recruitment & Search is seeking a Laser Technical Specialist to join a precision manufacturing environment in Texas. The role focuses on laser cutting operations, process optimisation, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement on the shop floor.

You'll provide hands‑on machine set‑up, optimise cutting parameters across materials, and collaborate with Engineering, Production and Quality teams to enhance throughput and reduce waste.

Qualifications

• Technical qualifications in Engineering, Manufacturing, or Mechanical Engineering.
• 3–5 years experience in laser cutting or sheet metal fabrication or related manufacturing.
• Strong knowledge of laser cutting technology and manufacturing processes.
• Experience with CNC programming, nesting software, and CAD/CAM systems.
• Proven experience in process optimisation and continuous improvement initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical support for all laser cutting operations.
• Develop, optimise, and maintain laser cutting programmes and nesting strategies.
• Ensure efficient machine utilisation, material yield, and process performance.
• Support new product introduction activities, including process development and validation.
• Monitor production performance and identify opportunities for productivity improvements.
• Collaborate with Production and Quality teams to improve throughput and reduce waste.
• Carry out hands‑on machine set‑up, first‑off trials, and process prove‑outs for new and existing products.

Skills

Laser cutting

CNC programming

Nesting software

CAD/CAM systems

Lean Manufacturing

Continuous improvement

Troubleshooting

Education

Engineering/Manufacturing/Mechanical Engineering degree

Tools

Nesting software

CAD/CAM

Manufacturing software systems

Microsoft Office

Job description

Job Description

JOB SPECIFICATION: Laser Technical Specialist

DEPARTMENT: Engineering / Operations

JOB PURPOSE: An exciting opportunity has arisen for an Laser Technical Specialist to join a well-established manufacturing organisation. This hands‑on technical role will focus on laser cutting operations, process optimisation, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement within a fast‑paced production environment.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES

Laser Manufacturing Operations

• Provide technical support and expertise for all laser cutting operations.
• Develop, optimise, and maintain laser cutting programmes and nesting strategies.
• Ensure efficient machine utilisation, material yield, and process performance.
• Support new product introduction activities, including process development and validation.
• Monitor production performance and identify opportunities for productivity improvements.
• Ensure compliance with engineering drawings, customer specifications, and quality requirements.
• Support capacity planning and manufacturing capability development activities.
• Collaborate with Production and Quality teams to improve throughput, reduce waste, and enhance operational performance.
• Carry out hands‑on machine set‑up, first‑off trials, and process prove‑outs for new and existing products.
• Operate laser cutting equipment as required to validate programmes, optimise cutting parameters, and support production requirements.
• Conduct on‑machine troubleshooting and process adjustments to resolve quality, productivity, or technical issues in real time.
• Work directly on the shop floor with operators to identify and implement process improvements and best practices.
• Support production during peak periods by providing practical operational expertise and hands‑on assistance where required.

Process Improvement & Technical Support

• Lead continuous improvement initiatives within laser processing operations.
• Optimise cutting parameters to improve quality, speed, and cost efficiency.
• Investigate technical issues and perform root cause analysis to implement corrective actions.
• Develop standard operating procedures and process documentation.
• Support engineering change management activities.
• Evaluate new technologies and equipment upgrades to improve manufacturing capability.
• Provide technical guidance on material selection and manufacturability.
• Lead and participate in practical laser cutting trials, material evaluations, and process development activities to improve manufacturing performance.
• Validate process improvements through hands‑on testing and measurement, ensuring repeatability and production readiness.

Equipment & Maintenance Support

• Liaise with Maintenance teams to maximise equipment reliability and performance.
• Support preventative maintenance planning and troubleshooting activities.
• Work with equipment suppliers and service providers on machine upgrades and technical issues.
• Assist in equipment validation and commissioning activities.
• Support the implementation of best practices for machine care and operational efficiency.
• Perform routine machine calibrations, cutting parameter verification, and operational checks to maintain optimum performance.
• Support fault finding activities directly on equipment alongside Maintenance and equipment suppliers.

Training & Development

• Train and support operators in laser processing techniques, programming, and best practices.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement, quality, and technical excellence.
• Share technical knowledge and support cross‑functional team development.

KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCE

• Technical qualifications in Engineering, Manufacturing, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum 3-5 years experience in laser cutting, sheet metal fabrication, precision engineering, or a related manufacturing environment.
• Strong knowledge of laser cutting technology and associated manufacturing processes.
• Experience with CNC programming, nesting software, and CAD/CAM systems.
• Proven experience in process optimisation and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings and technical specifications.
• Experience troubleshooting manufacturing and production issues.
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and structured problem‑solving methodologies.
• Experience within a precision engineering or metal fabrication environment would be advantageous.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and manufacturing software systems.
• Demonstrated hands‑on experience setting up, operating, and troubleshooting industrial laser cutting equipment.
• Experience optimising laser cutting parameters across a range of materials, thicknesses, and customer requirements.

KEY COMPETENCIES

• Strong technical expertise in laser cutting and manufacturing processes.
• Excellent analytical and critical thinking skills.
• Continuous improvement mindset.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Effective communication and influencing skills.
• Ability to train, coach, and support operational teams.
• Strong planning and organisational skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively across departments.
• Purpose driven with a focus on operational excellence.
• Strong practical, hands‑on approach with the ability to combine technical expertise and shop floor execution.
• Comfortable working in a manufacturing environment with significant time spent supporting production operations directly.

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