Independent Contractor Cnc Laser Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Company Description
Who are we?
We are Aero Transportation Products (ATP), a business organization, part of the greater Wabtec Corporation. Established in 1979 and purchased by Wabtec in 2017, our organization has supported the Agriculture and Industrial arena as an innovator in the rail industry for more than 45 years. We have designed and built products that both feed and house everyone throughout North America and are working on new products for applications internationally as well.
Job Description
Who will you be working with?
This position is part of ATP, which includes sites located in Independence, MO and in McPherson, KS. Our Independence site is based in an underground industrial complex customized for Fiberglass production. The McPherson site is a metal fabrication and weld shop, in the picturesque setting of America's Heartland. The ATP team is comprised of a diverse group from varying backgrounds, all motivated by an enjoyable and positive work culture. This position is based in McPherson, KS, and will primarily support the production of steel and aluminum hatch covers and gates for Wabtec's Freight Components division.
This role is specific to the McPherson, KS location.
How will you make a difference?
As a member of the McPherson-based team, you will be a critical contributor to our manufacturing excellence. As a CNC Laser Operator, you will primarily be responsible for operating and maintaining laser cutting machinery in manufacturing environments, ensuring precise and efficient production of metal and other material components. By combining technical skills, attention to detail and quality, and a commitment to safety, you will play a vital role in delivering high-performance solutions that drive Wabtec's reputation for manufacturing innovation. You will report directly to the Production Supervisor, as well as the Plant Manager.
What will your typical day look like?
Role and Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC laser cutting machine
• Read and interpret technical blueprints and engineering drawings
• Adjust machine settings for optimal cutting precision
• Perform equipment maintenance and routine inspections
• Measure and verify part dimensions using precision measuring tools
• Monitor cutting processes and ensure quality standards
• Load and unload materials safely and efficiently
• Troubleshoot minor equipment issues
• Maintain a clean and organized work area
• Follow all safety protocols and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Solve problems and develop innovative solutions to novel situations that require a fresh approach while still maintaining required standards of safety, stability, and security.
• Maintain tools and equipment to a professional standard. Keep workstation clean and orderly to retain a safe and operational work environment.
• Coordinate workflow with other members of the team and third-party agents.
• Maintain high quality standards as determined by quality and engineering standards.
• Perform additional duties as deemed necessary.

General Duties

• Follow and comply with all safety and work rules and regulations. Maintain departmental housekeeping standards.
• Complete production and quality assurance forms.
• Participate actively in team meetings and group discussions.
• Interface with engineering to accurately communicate information.
• Actively participate in continuous improvement activities or events as required.
• Adhere to Quality Management System Requirements.
• Follow and maintain 5S activities.
• Ability to read and comprehend procedures written in English.

Qualifications
What do we want to know about you?
Education

• High school diploma or equivalent

Experience

• Technical certification in machine operations preferred

Experience

• 3-5+ years in custom build shop preferred
• 1-3+ years of CNC laser cutting experience
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes

Technical Skills

• Technical certification in machine operations preferred
• CNC laser cutting machine operation
• CAD/CAM software knowledge
• Basic computer skills
• Understanding of material properties
• Mechanical aptitude

Behavioral Attributes

• Ability to communicate effectively with team members and management
• Ability to hold themselves accountable for results
• Mechanical aptitude
• Ability to think critically and troubleshoot problems

Additional Information
What about the physical demands of the job?

• Ability to stand for approximately 10 hours per day.
• Ability to lift a minimum of 25 lbs.
• Position requires frequent standing and repetitive use of hands.
• Ability to stand for extended periods
• Good hand-eye coordination
• Comfortable working in a manufacturing environment
• Bending over, climbing, reaching overhead, kneeling and pushing/pulling are required occasionally.

The typical working hours for this role are 6:00am to 4:30pm, Monday through Thursday. Overtime hours may be available or even required according to business needs and within the parameters of any applicable federal/state laws.
The hourly rate for this role is in the range of $21.50 - $23.50 per hour.
Wabtec will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the U.S. for this opening. Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen (as applicable) and fitness for duty test (as applicable).
Our job titles may span more than one career level. The salary rate for this role is currently $21.50-$23.50 The actual salary offered to a candidate may be influenced by a variety of factors, such as: training, transferable skills, work experience, education, business needs, market demands and work location. The base pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future. More information on offered benefits, which include health, welfare, and retirement, are available at mywabtecbenefits.com. Other benefit offerings for this role may include annual bonus, if eligible.
What could you accomplish in a place that puts People First?
At Wabtec, it's not just about a job - it's about the impact you make. When our people come together, we're Expanding the Possible by continuously improving what we do and how we do it - for our clients and each other.
If you're ready to revolutionize how the world moves for future generations, Wabtec is the place for you.
Who are we?
Wabtec is a leading global provider of equipment, systems, digital solutions, and value-added services for the freight and transit rail sectors. Drawing on more than 150 years of experience, we are leading the way in safety, efficiency, reliability, innovation, and productivity. Whether it's freight, transit, ports, logistics, mining, industrial, or marine, our expertise, technologies, and people together - are accelerating the future of transportation. With roots that date back to George Westinghouse, Thomas Edison, and Louis Faiveley, Wabtec has always built technologies and implemented solutions for a variety of sectors that are critical to meeting the needs of customers and governments alike.
Our global team of about 30,000 employees worldwide delivers performance that moves the world forward. We're lifelong learners, obsessed with better. Learn more at www.WabtecCorp.com.
Culture powers us and the possibilities.
We believe the best ideas come from a mix of experiences and backgrounds. At Wabtec, we strive every day to create a place where everyone belongs. We're building a culture where leadership, inclusion and your unique perspective fuel progress.
We're proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome talent of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities, including race, gender, age, disability, veteran status and more.
Need accommodation? Just let us know - we've got you.