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Cnc Plasma Machine Operator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

nLIGHT

CNC Machine Operator

Longmont, CO

$28 - $43/hr

At least 2 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 ...

nLIGHT

CNC Machine Operator

Longmont, CO · On-site

$28 - $43/hr

At least 2 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 ...

nLIGHT

CNC Machine Operator

Longmont, CO

$28 - $43/hr

At least 2 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 ...

nLIGHT

CNC Machine Operator

Longmont, CO · On-site

At least 2 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 ...

Tharp Cabinet Company

Machine Operator

Loveland, CO · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Previous experience operating woodworking or CNC machines in a manufacturing setting preferred. * Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills. * Must display an ability to fully run ...

Tharp Cabinet Company

Machine Operator

Loveland, CO

$20 - $24/hr

Previous experience operating woodworking or CNC machines in a manufacturing setting preferred. * Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills. * Must display an ability to fully run ...

Tharp Cabinet Company

Machine Operator

Loveland, CO · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Previous experience operating woodworking or CNC machines in a manufacturing setting preferred. * Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills. * Must display an ability to fully run ...

Tharp Cabinet Company

Machine Operator

Loveland, CO · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Previous experience operating woodworking or CNC machines in a manufacturing setting preferred. * Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills. * Must display an ability to fully run ...

High Plains Steel Services

Machine Operator

Windsor, CO · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

You'll operate CNC and manual machines in this role, ensuring fabricated parts meet project ... What you'll do as a Machine Operator: * Work with burn tables, press brakes, saws, and robotic ...

Lava Island

CNC Operator

Aurora, CO · On-site

$26/hr

CNC or industrial cutting machine experience. Typically two or more years on CNC routers, beam saws, plasma or steel cutters, or similar programmed cutting equipment. * Comfort loading, programming ...

Lava Island

CNC Operator

Aurora, CO · On-site

$26 - $28/hr

CNC or industrial cutting machine experience. Typically two or more years on CNC routers, beam saws, plasma or steel cutters, or similar programmed cutting equipment. * Comfort loading, programming ...

Lava Island

CNC Operator

Aurora, CO · On-site

CNC or industrial cutting machine experience. Typically two or more years on CNC routers, beam saws, plasma or steel cutters, or similar programmed cutting equipment. * Comfort loading, programming ...

Lava Island

CNC Operator

Aurora, CO

$26 - $28/hr

CNC or industrial cutting machine experience. Typically two or more years on CNC routers, beam saws, plasma or steel cutters, or similar programmed cutting equipment. * Comfort loading, programming ...

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All JobsCnc Plasma Machine Operator JobsCnc Plasma Machine Operator Jobs in Colorado

Cnc Plasma Machine Operator information

See Colorado salary details

$14

$24

$34

How much do cnc plasma machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for cnc plasma machine operator in Colorado is $24.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.72 and $28.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Cnc Plasma Machine Operator vs Cnc Laser Cutter Operator?

AspectCnc Plasma Machine OperatorCnc Laser Cutter Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, certification in CNC programmingHigh school diploma, certification in CNC or laser operation
Work EnvironmentFactories with metal cutting equipment, often outdoors or in large workshopsIndoor manufacturing facilities, working with precise laser cutting machines
Industry UsageMetal fabrication, construction, shipbuildingAutomotive, aerospace, signage manufacturing

Both roles involve operating CNC machinery, but Cnc Plasma Machine Operators focus on cutting thick metals with plasma torches, while Cnc Laser Cutter Operators work with laser technology for precise cuts on various materials. The choice depends on the specific industry and type of material being processed.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a CNC Plasma Machine Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a CNC Plasma Machine Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, knowledge of blueprint reading, and experience with CNC machinery, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with CAD/CAM software, plasma cutting systems, and safety certifications are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help operators ensure precision and maintain workflow. These skills are crucial for producing high-quality parts, minimizing errors, and maintaining a safe and efficient manufacturing environment.

What are some common challenges CNC Plasma Machine Operators face when working with different materials?

CNC Plasma Machine Operators often encounter challenges when switching between materials such as steel, aluminum, and stainless steel. Each material requires specific settings for cutting speed, gas type, and amperage to ensure clean cuts and minimize wear on the machine. Additionally, operators must carefully monitor the machine for slag buildup and ensure proper ventilation to manage fumes. Adapting quickly to these variables is crucial for maintaining high-quality output and machine longevity.

What does a CNC Plasma Machine Operator do?

A CNC Plasma Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining CNC plasma cutting machines, which use computer-controlled technology to cut metal and other materials with high precision. Operators read blueprints or technical drawings, program the machine with specific measurements, and monitor the cutting process to ensure quality and accuracy. They also perform routine maintenance, troubleshoot issues, and ensure safety protocols are followed in the workshop. This role requires technical skills, attention to detail, and a good understanding of machinery and computer programming.
What are popular job titles related to Cnc Plasma Machine Operator jobs in Colorado? For Cnc Plasma Machine Operator jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cnc Plasma Machine Operator jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Cnc Plasma Machine Operator jobs in Colorado are:
Cnc Plasma Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cnc Plasma Machine Operator job openings in Colorado as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,716 per year, or $24.9 per hour.
CNC Machine Operator

CNC Machine Operator

nLIGHT

Longmont, CO

$28 - $43/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Location:Longmont, CO (onsite)
Experience: A minimum of 2 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 2 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 2 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 programming: 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 atHR@nlightdefense.com.
Employment Type: Full-Time Regular

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