Job Title: Laser Machine OperatorJob DescriptionThe Laser Machine Operator sets up, operates, and monitors laser cutting equipment to produce high-quality parts that meet precise specifications. This role interprets blueprints and work orders, selects appropriate materials and tooling, performs in-process and final quality inspections, and maintains equipment to ensure safe, efficient, and accurate production.
Responsibilities
- Review and interpret blueprints, work orders, tooling instructions, and other written specifications to understand job requirements.
- Determine processing specifications, including materials, forms, sizes, surface conditions, material defects, dimensions, tolerances, and operational sequences.
- Verify that the correct material is selected and used for each job according to work orders.
- Coordinate and execute material handling activities to ensure materials are staged and moved safely and efficiently.
- Set up the laser cutting unit for safe operation by selecting appropriate nozzles and configuring machine speeds and feeds.
- Position workpieces accurately for processing and operate a combination of different machines as needed.
- Operate laser machines during processing in alignment with workload and business needs.
- Adjust machine controls to set cutting speed, depth, and feed rates to achieve required quality and productivity.
- Measure and examine parts using precision measuring instruments such as calipers, micrometers, scales, and squares to confirm conformance to specifications.
- Perform in-process quality control inspections and final inspections on finished products to ensure they meet work order requirements.
- Remove scrap metal and clean equipment in accordance with designated maintenance and housekeeping procedures.
- Diagnose basic equipment or process issues and make necessary adjustments to maintain quality and efficiency.
- Communicate effectively with supervisors, co-workers, and internal stakeholders to support smooth production flow.
Essential Skills- 0โ5 years of relevant experience in machine operation, laser operation, or a closely related manufacturing role, or an equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
- Ability to read and comprehend written instructions, blueprints, work orders, and tooling instructions as applied to work situations.
- Demonstrated manual dexterity, finger dexterity, arm-hand steadiness, and multi-limbed coordination to safely and accurately operate machinery.
- Basic measurement skills, including taking, converting, and using measurements of length, width, height, and weight to perform basic math computations correctly.
- Basic arithmetic skills to calculate and convert decimals and fractions accurately.
- Ability to operate laser machines and related production equipment safely and efficiently.
- Ability to multi-task, prioritize work, and manage time effectively in a production environment.
- Sound decision-making skills based on a combination of knowledge, experience, and judgment.
- Ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, co-workers, internal customers, and vendors.
Additional Skills & Qualifications- Experience operating laser cutting equipment in a manufacturing or fabrication environment.
- Familiarity with reading and interpreting technical drawings and blueprints for metal fabrication.
- Exposure to quality control practices, including in-process and final inspections using precision measuring tools.
- Comfort working with tools such as calipers, micrometers, scales, and squares to verify part dimensions.
- Willingness to learn additional machines or processes as business needs evolve.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality work.
Why Work Here?You will join a production environment that values accuracy, safety, and teamwork, offering the opportunity to develop technical skills on advanced laser equipment while contributing to high-quality manufacturing output. The organization supports learning on the job, encourages collaboration with experienced colleagues, and provides a setting where reliable performance and continuous improvement are recognized.
Work Environment
This role is based in a hands-on manufacturing environment with regular operation of laser cutting machines and related equipment. Work involves standing for extended periods, handling materials, and using precision measuring instruments such as calipers, micrometers, scales, and squares. The position requires adherence to established safety and equipment maintenance procedures, including routine cleaning and removal of scrap metal. Work hours and shifts align with production needs and may vary based on workload and business requirements. Appropriate industrial work attire and use of standard safety equipment are expected to ensure a safe and efficient operation.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Wichita, KS.
Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $18.00 - $20.00/hr.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
โข Medical, dental & vision
โข Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
โข 401(k) Retirement Plan โ Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
โข Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
โข Short and long-term disability
โข Health Spending Account (HSA)
โข Transportation benefits
โข Employee Assistance Program
โข Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Wichita,KS.
Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Jun 15, 2026.
About Aerotek
We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry โ from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companiesโ construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.
Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.
The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.
San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.
We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry โ from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companiesโ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.