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Certified Machine Operator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

nLIGHT

CNC Machine Operator

Longmont, CO · On-site

$28 - $43/hr

Associate degree or Technical Certification is a plus. Compensation: $28.00-$43.00/hour depending ... Summary: The Machine Operator will support the development of cutting-edge laser and electro ...

nLIGHT

CNC Machine Operator

Longmont, CO

$28 - $43/hr

Associate degree or Technical Certification is a plus. Compensation: $28.00-$43.00/hour depending ... Summary: The Machine Operator will support the development of cutting-edge laser and electro ...

Sunland Asphalt

Milling Operator

Henderson, CO · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Inspect, clean and maintain equipment and machinery.Responsible for reporting problems and ... Certifications, Licenses, and RegistrationsA current driver's license is preferred. Must have a ...

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Certified Machine Operator information

Is it worth becoming a certified machine operator?

Becoming a certified machine operator can improve job prospects, increase earning potential, and demonstrate proficiency with equipment and safety standards. Certification often requires passing exams and gaining hands-on experience, which can make candidates more competitive in the job market.

What are some common challenges certified machine operators face during a typical shift?

Certified Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting unexpected equipment malfunctions, maintaining consistent production quality under tight deadlines, and adhering to strict safety protocols in a fast-paced environment. Working with complex machinery requires constant attention to detail and quick problem-solving skills. Collaborating with maintenance teams and supervisors is essential to minimize downtime and ensure smooth production flow, so strong communication skills are also important in overcoming daily obstacles.

What is the difference between Certified Machine Operator vs Machine Technician?

AspectCertified Machine OperatorMachine Technician
CertificationsOften requires specific machine operation certificationsRequires technical certifications or technical school training
Work EnvironmentOperates machinery on production lines, factoriesPerforms maintenance, troubleshooting, repairs on machinery
Employer & IndustryManufacturing, industrial plantsManufacturing, maintenance services, industrial facilities
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

The main difference is that Certified Machine Operators focus on operating machinery according to safety and quality standards, while Machine Technicians handle maintenance and repairs. Both roles are essential in manufacturing environments, but they require different skill sets and certifications.

How to get certified as a certified machine operator?

To become a certified machine operator, you typically need to complete a training program or apprenticeship that covers safety procedures, equipment operation, and maintenance. Many employers require certification from industry-recognized organizations or passing a skills assessment, and some regions may have specific licensing requirements.

What is a certified machine operator?

Certified Machine Operators are skilled workers who have received specialized training and certification to operate industrial machines safely and efficiently. They are responsible for setting up, running, and maintaining machinery used in manufacturing or production environments. Certification usually involves passing a training course or exam to demonstrate competence in machine operation, safety protocols, and troubleshooting. Employers often prefer certified operators because they reduce the risk of accidents and improve production quality.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a certified machine operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Certified Machine Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent along with relevant machine operation certifications. Familiarity with industrial machinery, safety protocols, and experience using quality control systems or CNC equipment are commonly required. Excellent problem-solving skills, teamwork, and the ability to communicate clearly help operators stand out in this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient production and contribute to consistent product quality in manufacturing environments.
What are popular job titles related to Certified Machine Operator jobs in Colorado? For Certified Machine Operator jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Certified Machine Operator jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Certified Machine Operator jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Certified Machine Operator jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Certified Machine Operator job openings:
Certified Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Certified Machine Operator job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

CNC Machine Operator

nLIGHT

Longmont, CO • On-site

$28 - $43/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Location: Longmont, CO (onsite)
Experience: A minimum of 3 years professional machining experience.
Minimum Education: H.S. Diploma or GED required; Associate degree or Technical Certification is a plus.
Compensation: $28.00-$43.00/hour depending on experience.  

Who We Are
nLIGHT-DEFENSE Systems, Inc. is one of the nation’s leading developers of Directed Energy systems, which is a top modernization priority of the Department of Defense.  Our High Energy Laser (HEL) systems, Adaptive Optical (AO) systems, and Acquisition / Pointing / Tracking (APT) solutions are designed to overcome the most difficult challenges facing the deployment of high energy laser solutions to the United States military and our allies.  Located in Longmont, Colorado, nLIGHT-DEFENSE Systems, Inc. is a vertically integrated business that leverages internal capabilities – from semiconductor device through target identification – to develop systems that are both high-performance and cost-effective.  We continue to invest in capabilities, facilities and technology to bring leading edge HEL solutions to the warfighter. This is a great opportunity to work at a company that is on the leading edge of the HEL industry and provides a culture of excellence and commitment to delivering solutions to the warfighter and our country.  
 
Headquartered in Camas, Washington, nLIGHT is a publicly listed company (NASDAQ: LASR).
 
Summary:
The Machine Operator will support the development of cutting-edge laser and electro-optical systems.  The ideal candidate has at least 3 years professional machining experience but is interested in career broadening opportunities to expand into mechanical design and drafting.  Must be comfortable with execution of rapid turn precision machining modifications of existing components and/or fabrication of new components. 

All applicants must possess or be qualified to obtain a U.S. DoD Personnel Security Clearance. Preference will be given to candidates with an existing U.S. DoD Personnel Security Clearance.  Further information on requirements to obtain a security clearance is available at: https://www.dcsa.mil/mc/pv/mbi/gicp/.  Please review this information before applying.
 
Responsibilities:    
  • Able to effectively manage the schedule and prioritize with minimal daily direction to meet mid to long-term schedule objectives. 
  • Maintain and configure machine shop equipment, including mills, lathes, saws, and metrology tooling. 
  • Develop and prove out feeds, speeds, and machining strategies. 
  • Maintain a positive attitude, with strong troubleshooting skills and willingness to develop creative solutions to time-sensitive problems. 
  • Must be comfortable with execution of rapid turn precision machining modifications of existing components and/or fabrication of new components. 
  • Must also be willing to work additional duties related to facility support (clean rooms, high end chillers, generators, occasional simple facility maintenance activities, occasional travel to support testing at customer sites). 
Required Experience / Capability:     
  • Commitment to Excellence.  Attention to Detail.  Pride in Workmanship.    
  • At least 3 years’ experience as a professional CNC machine operator, setting up, and running CNC mills or CNC lathes. 
  • Expertise in Fabrication and Assembly Drawing Preparation for manufacturing (ISO and ANSI standards) including experience with version control and change record documentation. 
  • Experience with HAAS or FANUC CNC machine controls. 
  • Experience manually writing and/or editing G-Code programs. 
  • Experience with CAM Software: HSMWorks, Fusion 360 CAM, Mastercam, GibbsCAM, or ESPRIT.   
  • Experience with conversational programing: Proto-Trak, HAAS Visual Part Programming System.  
  • Experience working in AS9100 or ISO9001 certified manufacturing facility.
  • Ability to work in a dynamic environment and maintain composure and good working relationships under pressure. 
  • Experience with preventative maintenance on CNC machine tools. 
  • Experience with facility maintenance activities. 
Benefits Summary:  
  • 4 weeks of Paid Time Off per year 
  • 11 paid Holidays 
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan 
  • Tuition Assistance Program 
  • Health (ACA Gold Plan), Vision and Dental Care paid by employer 100% for Employee and 75% for Dependents 
  • Paid Family Leave, Short and Long Term Disability paid by employer 100% 
  • Competitive 401k with company match and immediate vesting  
  
Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or age. For more information about our commitment to equal employment opportunity, please see this government poster: Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal. If you are an individual with a disability and need a reasonable accommodation in the application or hiring process, please contact Human Resources at HR@nlightdefense.com.  
 

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