Lead CNC Laser & Plasma Machine Operator

CORE & MAIN LP; Winchester (VA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Core & Main seeks a dependable CNC Laser & Plasma Machine Operator to set up and run CNC laser and plasma cutting equipment for parts from sheet steel and aluminum. You will read engineering drawings, follow production schedules, and ensure high quality while adhering to safety procedures.

Ideal candidates have 3+ years in CNC fabrication, strong measurement skills, and the ability to operate material handling equipment.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• High school diploma or GED 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.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and stand for extended periods.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC laser and plasma cutting machines to meet specifications.
• Read and interpret blueprints, shop drawings, and production schedules.
• Load and unload materials using cranes or forklifts as required.
• Verify material type, thickness, and dimensions before processing.
• Adjust speed and parameters for optimal cut quality.
• Inspect finished parts with measuring tools for accuracy.
• Prepare materials for the next production step and label parts.
• Perform routine machine maintenance and report issues.
• Maintain a clean, safe work environment and follow SOPs.

Skills

Blueprint reading

Precision measurement

Mechanical troubleshooting

Team collaboration

Safety compliance

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Bystronic

Trumpf

Mazak

Amada

Mitsubishi

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

• 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. For more information, please click here or visit https://www.eeoc.gov

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.