Lead CNC Laser & Plasma Machine Operator

Core & Main; Winchester (VA); On-site; USD 25,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

Core & Main is seeking a dependable CNC Laser & Plasma Machine Operator to join our fabrication team. The successful candidate will set up and operate CNC laser and plasma cutting equipment to produce parts from sheet steel, aluminum and other materials according to engineering drawings and production schedules.

Experience in metal fabrication and CAD/CAM or nesting software is preferred. We value safety, quality, and teamwork.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required or preferred.
• Minimum 3 years of CNC laser, plasma, or sheet metal fabrication experience.
• Ability to read blueprints and mechanical drawings.
• Experience using precision measuring tools (tape measures, calipers, squares).
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC laser and plasma cutting machines to produce parts that meet engineering specifications.
• Read and interpret blueprints, shop drawings, work orders, and production schedules.
• Load and unload sheets of steel, aluminum, and other materials using overhead cranes or forklifts.
• Verify material type, thickness, and dimensions prior to processing.
• Monitor machine operation and adjust cutting parameters for quality cuts.
• Inspect completed parts using measuring tools and visual inspection techniques.
• Label, sort, and package completed parts according to work orders.
• Perform routine machine maintenance and daily checks.
• Report equipment malfunctions or quality issues to supervisor.
• Maintain a clean, organized and safe work environment.

Skills

Blueprint reading

Precision measuring

Mechanical aptitude

Team collaboration

Education

HS diploma or GED

Tools

CNC laser systems (Bystronic/Trumpf/Mazak/Amada/Mitsubishi)

CNC plasma systems

AutoCAD / CAD-CAM

CAD/CAM nesting software

Job description

Based in St. Louis, Core & Main is a leader in advancing reliable infrastructure with local service, nationwide. As a specialty distributor with a focus on water, wastewater, storm drainage and fire protection products and related services, Core & Main provides solutions to municipalities, private water companies and professional contractors across municipal, non-residential and residential end markets, nationwide. With over 370 locations across the U.S., the company provides its customers local expertise backed by a national supply chain. Core & Main’s 5,700 associates are committed to helping their communities thrive with safe and reliable infrastructure. Visit coreandmain.com to learn more.

Job Summary

We are seeking a dependable and detail-oriented CNC Laser & Plasma Machine Operator to join our fabrication team. This position is responsible for setting up and operating CNC laser and plasma cutting equipment to accurately produce parts from sheet steel, aluminum, and other materials according to engineering drawings and production schedules. The ideal candidate has experience in metal fabrication, CNC equipment operation, and maintaining high quality and safety standards.

Major Tasks, Responsibilities and Key Accountabilities

• Set up and operate CNC laser and plasma cutting machines to produce parts that meet engineering specifications.
• Read and interpret blueprints, shop drawings, work orders, and production schedules.
• Load and unload sheets of steel, aluminum, and other materials using overhead cranes, forklifts, or other material handling equipment as required.
• Verify material type, thickness, and dimensions prior to processing.
• Monitor machine operation and make adjustments to speed, cutting parameters, and consumables to ensure optimal cut quality.
• Inspect completed parts using measuring tools and visual inspection techniques to verify accuracy and quality.
• Remove cut parts from skeletons and prepare materials for the next stage of production.
• Label, sort, and package completed parts according to work orders.
• Perform routine machine maintenance, including cleaning lenses, replacing consumables, and completing daily preventative maintenance checks.
• Report equipment malfunctions, quality issues, or material discrepancies to the supervisor.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Follow all company safety policies and standard operating procedures.
• Assist with other fabrication duties as needed.

Qualifications

Required

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Minimum of 3 years of CNC laser, plasma, or sheet metal fabrication experience.
• Ability to read blueprints and mechanical drawings.
• Experience using precision measuring tools, including tape measures, calipers, and squares.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to safely lift up to 50 pounds and stand for extended periods.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Preferred

• Experience operating CNC laser systems (Bystronic, Trumpf, Mazak, Amada, Mitsubishi, or similar).
• Experience operating CNC plasma cutting systems.
• Forklift and/or overhead crane experience.
• AutoCAD certification or experience reading CAD-generated drawings.
• Experience with nesting software or CAD/CAM systems.

Core & Main is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. Employment at Core & Main is based solely on a person's merit and qualifications directly related to professional competence. Core & Main does not discriminate against any employee or applicant on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, national origin, nationality, ancestry, age, disability, veteran status, pregnancy or related condition (including breastfeeding), affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, citizenship, or any other basis protected by law.

None of the questions in this application are intended to elicit information regarding any protected characteristics, nor imply any limitation, illegal preferences or discrimination based upon non-job-related information or protected characteristics.

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