Steel Laser Operator

Falcon Steel Inc; Springfield (MO); On-site; USD 23,000 - 32,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health Coverage

401(k) Retirement Plan

Job summary

Falcon Steel Inc. in Springfield, MO seeks a Laser Operator for the 2nd shift to transform raw steel sheets into precision-cut parts using CNC fiber or CO2 lasers.

You will troubleshoot cuts, optimize nesting for material efficiency, and maintain high part quality in a fast-paced fabrication environment. The ideal candidate has 1–3 years of CNC laser experience, the ability to read blueprints/DXF-DWG, and familiarity with CNC controllers and measuring tools.

Qualifications

• 1–3 years of experience operating CNC Laser or Plasma cutting machines.
• Ability to read and interpret industrial blueprints and DXF/DWG files.
• Comfort using CNC controllers and basic nesting software.
• Proficiency with precision measuring tools (calipers, micrometers).
• Physical stamina to work in a fast-paced shop and lift up to 50 lbs.

Responsibilities

• Operate CNC laser cutting machines to process carbon steel, stainless steel, and aluminum.
• Select correct material gauges and types; load sheets using cranes or forklifts.
• Adjust machine parameters, including gas pressure, nozzle focus, and cutting speed.
• Monitor nesting to maximize material utilization and minimize scrap.
• Inspect parts for burrs or heat-affected zones and verify against CAD drawings.
• Perform routine nozzle maintenance and lens inspections.

Skills

Blueprint reading

Manual measurement

Physical stamina

Attention to detail

Tools

CNC laser equipment

DXF/DWG files

Nesting software

CNC controllers

Calipers & micrometers

Job description

Since opening our doors in 1999, Falcon Steel has evolved into Springfield, Missouri's premier full-service steel center. What sets us apart isn't just our extensive inventory—it's our people. Our skilled team brings over 100 years of combined industry knowledge to every project.

We maintain one of the region's most comprehensive steel inventories, featuring more than 600 unique SKUs across carbon steel products. From standard dimensions to hard-to-find specialty items, our warehouse is strategically stocked to meet demanding timelines and unique specifications.

Our commitment goes beyond stocking shelves. We offer custom processing services and can source specialty grades that others can't. We know that exceptional steel solutions require a team that delivers. That's why we're expanding our crew of steel professionals who share our dedication to excellence.

Job Description

Falcon Steel is seeking a detail-oriented Laser Operator to join our 2nd shift team. As the first step in our fabrication process, the Laser Operator is responsible for transforming raw steel sheets into precision-cut parts. You will be operating high-powered CNC fiber or $CO_2$ laser cutting systems to meet the exacting specifications of our clients.

We are looking for a candidate who understands the "rhythm" of a laser—someone who can troubleshoot a cut on the fly, optimize material nesting to reduce waste, and maintain a high standard of part quality. If you enjoy working with cutting-edge technology and thrive in a high-production environment, we want to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities

• Machine Operation: Load programs and operate CNC laser cutting machines to process carbon steel, stainless steel, and aluminum.
• Material Management: Select correct material gauges and types based on the job traveler; use overhead cranes or forklifts to load sheets onto the shuttle table.
• Technical Tuning: Adjust machine parameters, including gas pressure, nozzle focus, and cutting speed, to ensure clean, burr-free cuts.
• Nesting & Efficiency: Monitor nesting software to ensure maximum material utilization and minimal "drop" or scrap.
• Quality Assurance: Inspect parts for "dross" or heat-affected zones; use calipers and templates to verify dimensions against CAD drawings.
• Nozzle Maintenance: Perform routine maintenance, including nozzle cleaning, centering, and lens inspections.

Qualifications

• Experience: 1–3 years of experience operating CNC Laser or Plasma cutting machines (Amada, Bystronic, Mazak, or similar).
• Technical Skills: Ability to read and interpret industrial blueprints and DXF/DWG files.
• Computer Literacy: Comfortable using CNC controllers and basic nesting software; ability to navigate digital job folders.
• Measurement Precision: Expertise in using precision measuring tools (calipers, micrometers, and squares).
• Physical Stamina: Ability to work in a fast-paced shop, lift up to 50 lbs, and stand for 10-hour shifts.

Schedule and Pay

• Full-Time | 2 nd Shift 3-11:30pm
• $20/hr+ depending on experience

Benefits Offered:

• Health Coverage: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans. Also offers a Health Saving Account (HSA).
• Retirement: Safe Harbor 401(k) plan with a dedicated wealth advisor.