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Cnc Laser Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

ABC Sheet Metal

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Laser Operator - 2nd Shift

City Of Industry, CA · On-site

$28 - $40/hr

CNC Laser Operator - 2nd Shift ABC Sheet Metal / Steeldyne Industries Anaheim, CA - Close to where the 91 and 57 meet Full-Time | Monday-Thursday, 2:00 PM-12:30 AM $28-$40 per hour, depending on ...

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ABC Sheet Metal

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Laser Operator - 2nd Shift

Irvine, CA · On-site

$28 - $40/hr

CNC Laser Operator - 2nd Shift ABC Sheet Metal / Steeldyne Industries Anaheim, CA - Close to where the 91 and 57 meet Full-Time | Monday-Thursday, 2:00 PM-12:30 AM $28-$40 per hour, depending on ...

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BBSI San Jose

Tube Laser Operator

San Jose, CA · On-site

$25 - $32/hr

Set up and operate TRUMPF TruLaser Tube 7000 CNC Laser equipment safely and efficiently. * Load and unload raw material and finished parts. * Verify correct material type, size, thickness, and job ...

Baltimore Aircoil Company, Inc.

Laser Operator

Madera, CA

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

Load and navigate CNC programs stored on the LAN. * Change press brake tooling and laser cutting ... global operating standard established in BAC Excellence (BAC-X) including Global Assembly ...

Baltimore Aircoil Company

Laser Operator

Madera, CA

$25 - $35/hr

Load and navigate CNC programs stored on the LAN. * Change press brake tooling and laser cutting ... global operating standard established in BAC Excellence (BAC-X) including Global Assembly ...

Baltimore Aircoil Company, Inc.

Laser Operator

Madera, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

Load and navigate CNC programs stored on the LAN. * Change press brake tooling and laser cutting ... global operating standard established in BAC Excellence (BAC-X) including Global Assembly ...

Baltimore Aircoil Company

Laser Operator

Madera, CA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Load and navigate CNC programs stored on the LAN. * Change press brake tooling and laser cutting ... global operating standard established in BAC Excellence (BAC-X) including Global Assembly ...

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All JobsCnc Laser Operator JobsCnc Laser Operator Jobs in California

Cnc Laser Operator information

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How much do cnc laser operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for cnc laser operator in California is $21.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $23.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a CNC laser operator?

CNC Laser Operators are skilled professionals who operate Computer Numerical Control (CNC) laser cutting machines to cut, engrave, or shape materials such as metal, plastic, or wood according to precise specifications. They are responsible for setting up the machines, loading materials, programming the equipment, monitoring operations, and ensuring quality control. CNC Laser Operators also perform routine maintenance on the machines and may troubleshoot issues to ensure smooth production. This role requires technical expertise, attention to detail, and knowledge of safety protocols in a manufacturing environment.

What does a CNC laser operator do?

Computer numerical control (CNC) laser operators run computerized cutting and engraving machines to slice and carve materials, such as metal parts, plastic, and wood. In this role, you set up the machine lens and adjust the instrument between each project to meet specifications while adhering to proper safety procedures before, during, and after you operate machinery. You may also be responsible for repairing and maintaining the CNC laser machinery, as well as taking inventory of CNC machine-related products. You find CNC laser operators most commonly in manufacturing plants; these positions can be either part-time or full-time, and usually operate during regular business hours.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a CNC laser operator?

To thrive as a CNC Laser Operator, you need a strong understanding of machining processes, blueprint reading, and basic math, often supported by a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with CNC laser cutting machines, CAD/CAM software, and precision measuring instruments is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help operators maintain quality and collaborate with team members. These skills ensure safe, accurate, and efficient operation of laser equipment, directly impacting production quality and workplace safety.

What are some common challenges CNC laser operators face when working with different materials?

CNC Laser Operators often encounter challenges related to material thickness, reflectivity, and heat sensitivity. For example, cutting thicker or highly reflective metals like aluminum and copper can require adjustments in laser settings or multiple passes to achieve clean cuts. Additionally, operators must regularly monitor for warping or burning when processing heat-sensitive materials such as plastics. Developing a strong understanding of how different materials respond to laser cutting, and collaborating closely with engineers or programmers, helps overcome these challenges and ensures high-quality output.

How much do CNC laser operators earn?

CNC laser operators typically earn between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators with certifications and proficiency in CAD/CAM software may earn higher wages and have opportunities for overtime or advancement.

Is there a demand for CNC laser operators?

CNC laser operators are in demand across manufacturing, aerospace, and automotive industries due to the need for precise cutting and engraving. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as companies adopt advanced manufacturing technologies and require skilled operators familiar with CAD/CAM software and safety protocols.

Where do CNC Laser Operators make the most money?

CNC Laser Operators tend to earn higher wages in regions with a strong manufacturing or aerospace industry, often in areas with a high cost of living. Factors such as experience, certifications, and working in specialized facilities can also influence salary levels, with some of the highest pay rates found in industrial hubs and areas with advanced manufacturing sectors.
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Cnc Laser Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cnc Laser Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,707 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

CNC Laser Operator

Riverside, CA

ElDorado National California Inc
See more jobs at ElDorado National California Incexternal

$25 - $31/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Join a manufacturing leader with over 50 years of excellence, where every role contributes to building reliable transportation solutions that people depend on everyday across the United States and Canada. At ENC, we prioritize safety, quality, innovation, collaboration, and continuous growth – creating vehicles our teams can take pride in.
Founded in 1975, ENC (ElDorado National – California) is a leading U.S. transportation manufacturer specializing in design, engineering, and end-to-end production of heavy-duty buses, shuttles, and cargo vehicles through a custom-build, mixed-model assembly process. Each vehicle is produced in our purpose-built facility in Riverside, California supporting public agencies and private transportation providers nationwide. We offer one of the industry’s widest portfolios of power options, including 100% battery-electric, diesel-electric hybrid, CNG, and clean diesel.
ENC is committed to revitalizing American manufacturing through innovation, customer focus, and the delivery of high-quality vehicles that keep communities connected, supported, and moving forward.
CNC Laser Operator (Temp To Hire)
Location: Riverside, CA
Pay Rate: $25.00 - $31.00/hr.
Schedule: 6:00am - 2:30pm

Position Summary
The CNC Laser Tube amp; Flat Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining CNC laser cutting equipment to produce precision-cut tubes, sheet metal, and flat stock parts used in the manufacture of transit vehicles. This role ensures accurate, efficient, and safe operations while meeting quality and production requirements.

Key Responsibilities
Machine Setup amp; Operation
  • Set up and operate CNC tube and flat-bed laser cutting machines according to work orders and specifications
  • Load and unload materials (tubes, sheets, plates) safely and efficiently
  • Perform basic programming edits and parameter adjustments when required
Quality amp; Inspection
  • Verify cut dimensions using calipers, tape measures, gauges, and other precision measuring instruments
  • Inspect finished parts for burs, edge quality, and conformance to drawings
  • Work with QC to follow First Article Inspection (FAI) and in-process quality check procedures
Material Handling amp; Flow
  • Stage raw material, manage storage, and track laser equipment consumables (assist gas, lenses, nozzles)
  • Ensure material kits are prepared and ready for downstream weld and assembly processes
Maintenance amp; Safety
  • Work with maintenance to perform routine preventive maintenance on CNC laser equipment
  • Keep work area organized and compliant with 5S/lean principles
  • Follow all safety procedures, including PPE usage, lockout/tagout, and machine guarding
Documentation amp; Communication
  • Complete production and quality reports accurately
  • Communicate machine issues, material shortages, or quality concerns promptly to supervisors and quality team
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives
Position Requirements:
  • High school diploma or equivalent required; technical training or certifications preferred
  • 2+ years of experience operating CNC laser machines (tube and flat preferred)
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and work instructions
  • Familiarity with G/M code, CNC interfaces, or laser programming software is an asset
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills
  • Forklift and overhead crane operation experience preferred (or ability to certify)
Physical Requirements
  • Ability to lift up to 40 lbs and stand for extended periods
  • Frequent bending, reaching, pushing, and pulling of raw material and finished parts
  • Comfortable working around heat, dust, and noise in a manufacturing environment
Work Environment
  • Manufacturing floor environment with exposure to laser cutting equipment, heavy materials, and welding processes
  • Standard shift (6am – 2:30pm) with occasional overtime or weekend work as production requires
Benefits:
  • Comprehensive benefits package: Medical (including FSA amp; HSA), dental, vision, life and disability insurance, EAP, mental health, and wellness programs
  • 401(k) with employer match
  • Paid time off and twelve (12) paid holidays
  • Employee referral program
  • Career growth and development opportunities
Career Growth at ENC
  • We believe great careers and leaders are built from within. Many of our team members have advanced into roles that lead or into specialized technical positions. We invest in hands-on training, skill development, and long-term career pathways within manufacturing operations.
Equal Opportunity Employer
ElDorado National California Inc. (ENC) is an equal opportunity employer and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected class under applicable federal, state, and local laws. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and respected.
ENC takes affirmative action to employ and advance employment opportunities for minorities, women, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities. We actively encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply and join our team.
ENC is also committed to ensuring that individuals with disabilities have equal access to opportunities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process, please contact HR Department for assistance.
In accordance with California's wage transparency law (Senate Bill 1162), we are committed to pay equity and transparency. The salary range reflected on the job positing is our good faith estimate of what we expect to pay for this role at the time of posting. While we do not typically hire at the top of the salary range, initial offers are based on the candidate’s qualifications and experience, with opportunities for growth and increases over time.

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