Laser Cutter Operator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Job Title: CNC Laser Operator

Job Description

This role is responsible for setting up, operating, and monitoring CNC laser cutting equipment to produce high-quality metal components according to customer specifications. The position requires working in a fabrication environment, interpreting blueprints, and consistently maintaining tight tolerances while following established quality and safety standards.

Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, and monitor CNC laser cutting equipment to produce metal components according to customer specifications.
• Read and interpret blueprints to determine material, dimensions, tolerances, and cutting requirements.
• Use measuring tools such as micrometers, calipers, gauges, and tape measures to verify part dimensions and ensure accuracy.
• Perform part inspections and maintain tolerances to within +/- 0.005 inches.
• Record production data accurately, including run time, quantities produced, and any rejected parts.
• Monitor laser cutting operations and make necessary adjustments to maintain cut quality and productivity.
• Handle sheet metal and other materials safely during loading, cutting, and unloading processes.
• Operate related fabrication equipment, such as press brakes and other machine tools, as needed.
• Follow standard operating procedures and safety guidelines while working with CNC lasers and fabrication equipment.
• Contribute to continuous improvement efforts by identifying opportunities to enhance quality, efficiency, and safety in the production process.

Essential Skills

• At least 1–2 years of experience operating a laser machine or CNC laser equipment in a fabrication environment.
• Proficiency in blueprint reading and interpreting technical drawings.
• Ability to use quality tools including micrometers, calipers, gauges, and tape measures.
• Experience with part inspection and maintaining tolerances of +/- 0.005 inches.
• Capability to accurately record production data such as run time, quantities produced, and rejected parts.
• Hands-on experience with sheet metal fabrication and machine operation.
• Familiarity with laser cutting processes and laser cutter operation.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality work.
• Ability to follow safety procedures and work effectively in a production environment.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience operating CNC lasers in a custom job shop or welding-focused environment.
• Exposure to press brake operation and other fabrication equipment.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
• Commitment to continuous improvement in quality, safety, and productivity.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a production team

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Machesney Park, IL.

The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $23.00/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: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Machesney Park,IL.

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 12, 2026.

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

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 – 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 companies’ 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.