Precision Laser Cutting Technician (Sheet Metal)

Pro-Type Metal Machining; Sterling (VA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

401(k) with employer match

On-site gym

Job summary

Pro-Type Industries in Sterling, VA is seeking a Precision Laser Cutting Technician to join its aerospace-quality sheet metal team. You will review drawings, set up CNC laser cutters, and run parts per established programs while upholding AS9100 quality and safety standards.

Responsibilities include verifying material, tooling, and machine parameters; performing in-process inspections; and maintaining traceability and documentation to support production schedules.

Qualifications

• Experience operating CNC laser cutting equipment in metal fabrication.
• Ability to read blueprints, drawings, and work orders.
• Knowledge of sheet metal materials and tolerances.
• Strong attention to detail and quality control.

Responsibilities

• Review work orders, blueprints, and CNC programs to understand job requirements.
• Set up and operate CNC laser cutting equipment and verify parameters.
• Inspect finished parts using calipers and gauges.
• Maintain traceability and document production details.

Skills

CNC laser cutting

Blueprint reading

Dimensional inspection

Calipers & micrometers

Quality focus

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

CNC laser equipment

Measuring tools

Job description

About Pro-Type IndustriesPro-Type Industries is a third-generation, family-owned manufacturer based in Sterling, VA. Since 1969, we’ve delivered high-quality CNC machining, sheet metal fabrication, and finishing for customers in aerospace, military, manufacturing, electronics, technology, and marine. Our average team tenure is 17 years—a testament to deep expertise, ongoing training, and a people-first culture. With new, forward-looking ownership, we’re building on 50+ years of excellence and investing heavily in employee growth.If you’re seeking a vibrant, employee-centric place to build a career, we encourage you to apply.The RoleAs a Precision Laser Cutting Technician, you’ll be a key contributor in our sheet metal flow—turning drawings and programs into precise components while upholding customer specifications, AS9100-driven quality, and rigorous safety standards.A Day in the LifeBegin by reviewing work orders, blueprints, engineering drawings, specs, and CNC programs so you fully understand each job’s requirements.Set up and operate CNC laser cutting equipment, confirming the correct material, thickness, program, tooling, and machine parameters.Load/unload sheet metal and other materials safely and efficiently, then run parts using established programs, setup instructions, and proven procedures.Continuously monitor machine operation and cutting performance, making authorized adjustments to keep quality, accuracy, and throughput on target.Validate results with first-piece and in-process inspections using calipers, micrometers, scales, gauges, and other precision tools to verify dimensions and tolerances.Flag and communicate issues related to programs, materials, tooling, equipment, drawings, or part quality.Tab-out parts from sheets, identify and organize them for downstream operations, and perform basic deburring/cleanup as needed.Maintain material and product traceability throughout manufacturing while minimizing waste through proper nesting, handling, and production practices.Document production, quality, material, and job details accurately, and manage your work to align with Sheet Metal and company schedules.Perform routine operator-level inspections, cleaning, and basic preventive maintenance; keep your area clean, organized, and safe.Follow all Pro-Type safety procedures (machine guarding, laser safety, material handling, PPE) and adhere to AS9100 procedures, customer requirements, and internal work instructions.Support the Sheet Metal Department and other production activities as needed—and pitch in on other duties that help the team succeed.What You’ll BringHigh school diploma or GED; must be 18 or older.Hands-on experience operating CNC laser cutting equipment in metal fabrication or manufacturing (preferred).Background in precision sheet metal manufacturing (strongly preferred).Ability to read/interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, work orders, and manufacturing specifications.Basic understanding of CNC programs and confidence following established programs and setup instructions.Knowledge of sheet metal materials, thicknesses, and foundational fabrication processes; ability to identify and verify material prior to processing.Proficiency with calipers, micrometers, scales, and gauges; solid grasp of dimensional tolerances and inspection requirements.Skill in recognizing cutting, machine, material, and part-quality issues—and knowing when to request help or escalate.Strong mechanical aptitude, keen attention to detail, and a commitment to accuracy and quality.Discipline in following safety, quality, and production procedures; ability to organize work and meet schedules while completing documentation accurately.Capability to work independently and collaboratively across Sheet Metal, Engineering, Quality, and Production.Reliable attendance; ability to work assigned schedules and overtime when needed.Stamina to stand for extended periods and regularly bend, reach, push, pull, and handle sheet metal and components.Ability to safely lift and/or move materials and parts consistent with the physical requirements of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation.Preferred QualificationsExperience operating industrial CNC fiber or CO₂ laser cutting equipment.Experience in an aerospace, defense, or AS9100-certified manufacturing setting.Exposure to CNC nesting or laser programming software.Familiarity with punching, bending, forming, deburring, and hardware installation.Experience conducting first-piece and in-process dimensional inspections.Rewards and GrowthCompetitive compensationAnnual fully paid training for continuing educationCareer growth supported by a professional development planEmployee recognition programsHealth, dental, vision, sick and vacation leave, on-site gym, and more401(k) with a generous employer matchCollaborative, entrepreneurial team environmentWho Thrives HerePeople driven by excellence who set high standards and deliver quality.Detail fanatics who take pride in precision.Craftspeople dedicated to their trade and seeing work through end-to-end.Independent, self-motivated contributors who enjoy owning their results.