Laser & Torch Operator

Art's Way Manufacturing; Armstrong (IA); On-site; USD 30,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

Art's Way Manufacturing in Armstrong, IA, seeks a Laser & Torch Operator to set up, program, operate, and maintain CNC laser and torch cutting equipment to produce quality metal components per specifications. This role may also involve torch cutting as needed.

You will read blueprints, optimize cutting programs, monitor operations, inspect finished parts, and ensure safety and material efficiency. The ideal candidate has basic math, CNC tool experience, and a commitment to quality.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED or equivalent with relevant work experience.
• Experience operating CNC laser, plasma, torch, or similar metal-cutting equipment preferred.
• Experience creating or modifying CNC cutting programs and nesting layouts.
• Ability to read blueprints and technical drawings.
• Basic math and measurement skills.
• Ability to operate overhead cranes and forklifts or willingness to train.
• Safety-conscious with adherence to procedures.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC laser cutting equipment and torch cutting equipment as needed.
• Create and optimize cutting programs and nesting layouts.
• Read blueprints and determine material specs.
• Perform machine setups and adjust parameters for materials.
• Troubleshoot cutting issues and maintain equipment performance.
• Load/unload materials using cranes, forklifts, or manual handling.
• Monitor operations for accuracy and efficiency.
• Perform quality inspections and ensure part dimensions.
• Remove slag, deburr, grind, and clean components.
• Document production quantities and material usage.
• Maintain clean, safe work environment.
• Follow safety policies and wear PPE.

Skills

Read blueprints

Mechanical aptitude

Quality inspection

Safety procedures

Independent work

Mathematical skills

Education

High school diploma or GED

Equivalent education/experience

Tools

CNC laser cutting

Torch cutting

Nesting layouts

Overhead cranes

Forklifts

Calipers & micrometers

CNC programming software

Job description

• Location 5556 Highway 9,Armstrong, IA, 50514,United States
• Employee Type FT Non-Exempt

We work to build a legacy by manufacturing dependable, specialized farm equipment so independent-minded operators can do the hard work that leads to sustainable, self-sufficient, and profitable operation for generations to come.

GENERAL JOB DESCRIPTION

The Laser & Torch Operator is responsible for setting up, programming, operating, and maintaining CNC laser and torch cutting equipment to produce quality metal components according to production specifications. While primarily focused on laser cutting operations, this position also operates torch cutting equipment as production needs require. Responsibilities include creating and modifying cutting programs, preparing materials, inspecting finished components, performing routine equipment maintenance, and maintaining accurate production records. This position plays an important role in ensuring efficient production, minimizing material waste, and maintaining quality and safety standards.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBLITIES

• Set up and operate CNC laser cutting equipment and operate torch cutting equipment as production needs require.
• Create, modify, and optimize cutting programs and nesting layouts to maximize material utilization and cutting efficiency.
• Read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and work orders to determine material specifications, dimensions, and cutting requirements.
• Perform complete machine setups, including selecting appropriate consumables, adjusting cutting parameters, and configuring equipment for various material types and thicknesses.
• Troubleshoot cutting issues and make necessary adjustments to maintain equipment performance and finished-part quality.
• Load, position, and unload raw materials and finished components using overhead cranes, forklifts, or manual handling methods as appropriate.
• Monitor cutting operations to ensure accuracy, efficiency, and compliance with production specifications.
• Perform required quality inspections, including dimensional checks and established inspection procedures, to verify finished components meet specifications.
• Remove slag, deburr, grind, and clean finished components as necessary to prepare them for subsequent manufacturing operations.
• Identify and report defective materials, equipment malfunctions, and quality concerns to the appropriate supervisor.
• Verify that current drawings, cutting programs, and revisions are being used throughout production.
• Perform routine equipment cleaning and maintenance, including cleaning beneath cutting tables and emptying dust collection barrels.
• Monitor equipment consumables, cutting gases, and other supplies, communicating replenishment or maintenance needs to the appropriate personnel.
• Accurately document production quantities, material usage, scrap, and completed work on required paperwork and submit records to the Material Planner for entry into the production system.
• Minimize material waste through proper programming, machine setup, and efficient use of raw materials.
• Properly identify, organize, and handle raw materials, finished components, and scrap materials.
• Follow all company safety policies and procedures, including proper use of personal protective equipment, safe machine operation, and material-handling practices.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment.
• Assist with other manufacturing equipment and production operations as needed to support production schedules.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE JOB

• High school diploma or GED preferred, or equivalent combination of education and relevant work experience.
• Previous experience operating CNC laser, plasma, torch, or similar metal-cutting equipment preferred.
• Experience creating or modifying CNC cutting programs and nesting layouts preferred, or ability to learn through training.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and work instructions.
• Basic understanding of metal fabrication processes, material types, and cutting methods.
• Ability to perform basic shop mathematics, including measurements, fractions, and decimals.
• Ability to accurately use measuring tools such as tape measures, calipers, and micrometers.
• Basic computer skills and ability to learn machine-specific programming software and operating systems.
• Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot equipment and cutting-related issues.
• Ability to follow established inspection procedures and maintain quality standards.
• Ability to safely operate overhead cranes and forklifts, or willingness to complete required training.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and established safety procedures.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision after appropriate training.
• Willingness to learn new equipment, processes, and production procedures.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods, including the majority of an assigned shift.
• Ability to frequently bend, stoop, reach, twist, and perform repetitive movements associated with machine operation and material handling.
• Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds, with appropriate assistance or mechanical lifting devices for heavier materials.
• Ability to use hands and fingers to operate machine controls, handle materials, and perform precision measurements.
• Visual ability necessary to read blueprints, operate equipment, inspect components, and identify potential quality concerns.
• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with exposure to loud noise, moving machinery, metal dust, fumes, sparks, and varying temperatures.
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment, including safety glasses, hearing protection, protective footwear, and other equipment as required.

This is not necessarily an all-inclusive list of job-related responsibilities, duties, skills, efforts, requirements or working conditions. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the current job, management reserves the right to revise the job or to require that other or different tasks be performed as assigned. Art's Way is proud to be an EEO employer.