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Laser Etching Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ESP Enterprises, Inc.

Laser Etching Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

This is a hands-on role focused on laser marking and etching precision identification marks onto finished metal gages and measurement tools. You'll work with laser engraving equipment to permanently ...

GUHRING INC

Etching Operator

Brookfield, WI

$16 - $19/hr

The Etching Operator is responsible for setting up and operating laser etching equipment to produce markings, lettering, and designs according to customer specifications. This position prepares ...

Meador

Lase Etching Operator

Pasadena, TX

$19 - $21/hr

Determines and configures the laser power settings, adjusts the font width and font height, and * transforms the etching information from an engineering blueprint into the machine computer ...

Guhring

Etching Operator

Brookfield, WI · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

The Etching Operator is responsible for setting up and operating laser etching equipment to produce markings, lettering, and designs according to customer specifications. This position prepares ...

TekWissen

Chemical/Laser Etch Programmer

Warsaw, IN

Responsible for supporting the equipment/shop floor including NCR disposition work order maintenance related to Chemical/Laser Etching Qualifications Candidates must have excellent oral and written ...

Prestige Staffing Services

Be Seen First

CNC Programmer - Direct Hire (1st shift)

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$33 - $40/hr

Programming of CNC Wire EDM's and Laser Etching Machines * Create, modify, and verify programs * Create setup sheets * Design and program work holding fixtures for varying levels of production.

Vivacity Tech

Production Lead

Thornton, CO · On-site

$65K/yr

From performing equipment safety checks to supporting specialized tasks like asset tagging, laser etching, and product preparation, you'll play a critical role in delivering high-quality results.

Manpower

Graphics Digitizer

Lakeville, MA

$25/hr

Digitizing and preparing artwork for embroidery, laser etching (DXF), and heat transfer * Editing and refining customer files to ensure clean, production-ready results * Creating proofs and ...

DCG One

DIGITAL PRESS OPERATOR - TIER 1

Seattle, WA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Operate and maintain laser etching/engraving equipment in accordance with job specifications and safety standards. * Prepare digital files for laser etching, ensuring proper formatting, resolution ...

DCG ONE

DIGITAL PRESS OPERATOR - TIER 1

Seattle, WA

$22 - $24/hr

Operate and maintain laser etching/engraving equipment in accordance with job specifications and safety standards. * Prepare digital files for laser etching, ensuring proper formatting, resolution ...

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Laser Etching information

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$13

$19

$27

How much do laser etching jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for laser etching in the United States is $19.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much money can you make doing laser engraving?

Laser engraving professionals typically earn between $25,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, skill level, and whether they work freelance or for a company. Skilled operators with specialized equipment and a strong portfolio can command higher rates, especially in custom or high-volume production environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Laser Etching Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Laser Etching Technician, you need a solid understanding of laser operation, material properties, and blueprint reading, often supported by a technical diploma or on-the-job training. Familiarity with CAD software, laser engraving machines, and quality control systems is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help ensure precise and efficient work. These skills are crucial for producing high-quality etchings, maintaining safety standards, and meeting customer specifications in manufacturing environments.

Is there a demand for laser engraving?

There is steady demand for laser engraving in industries such as personalized gifts, manufacturing, and branding, with growth driven by advancements in laser technology and customization trends. Laser etching specialists with skills in design software and equipment operation are often sought after in these markets.

What is laser etching?

Laser etching is a process that uses a focused laser beam to mark or engrave the surface of a material, such as metal, plastic, glass, or wood. The laser alters the material's surface, creating permanent, high-contrast marks or designs without the use of inks or tools. This technique is commonly used for adding serial numbers, logos, decorative patterns, or identification marks due to its precision and durability. Laser etching is popular in industries like manufacturing, jewelry, electronics, and customization services.

Do I need a license to engrave guns?

Laser etching of guns is regulated by federal and state laws; generally, a license or federal firearm license (FFL) is required to manufacture or modify firearms, including engraving. It is important to comply with all applicable laws and obtain necessary permits before performing gun engraving professionally.

What are some common challenges faced by laser etching technicians, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Laser etching technicians often encounter challenges such as maintaining precise alignment, ensuring consistent quality across different materials, and troubleshooting machine errors. Attention to detail is critical, as even small misalignments can affect the clarity and accuracy of etched designs. Effective communication with design teams and regular maintenance of equipment help mitigate these issues. Many companies provide ongoing training and peer support to help technicians stay updated on best practices and new technologies.

What to laser engrave to make money?

Laser etching jobs often involve engraving personalized items such as jewelry, awards, promotional products, and custom gifts. Focusing on high-demand markets like personalized accessories or corporate branding can increase profitability, especially when developing skills in design software and maintaining quality standards.

What is the difference between Laser Etching vs CNC Machining?

AspectLaser EtchingCNC Machining
CredentialsTypically no formal certification required, but technical knowledge helpsRequires technical training or certification in CNC programming
Work EnvironmentIndoor, controlled environment, often in manufacturing or design studiosIndoor, machine shop or manufacturing facility
Industry UsageUsed for marking, engraving, and decorative purposes on various materialsUsed for cutting, shaping, and machining parts from metals, plastics, and other materials

Laser etching and CNC machining are both manufacturing processes but serve different purposes. Laser etching is primarily used for marking and decorative engraving, while CNC machining involves material removal to create precise parts. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right process for your project or career.

More about Laser Etching jobs
What cities are hiring for Laser Etching jobs? Cities with the most Laser Etching job openings:
What states have the most Laser Etching jobs? States with the most job openings for Laser Etching jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Laser Etching jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Laser Etching jobs are:
Laser Etching jobs near you
Infographic showing various Laser Etching job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,394 per year, or $19.9 per hour.
Laser Etching Operator

Laser Etching Operator

ESP Enterprises, Inc.

Houston, TX • On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description


Position Overview

We're seeking a detail-oriented Laser Engraving Operator to join the production team. This is a hands-on role focused on laser marking and etching precision identification marks onto finished metal gages and measurement tools. You'll work with laser engraving equipment to permanently mark part numbers, serial numbers, logos, and specifications onto high-precision instruments—not cutting through materials.

If you enjoy working with graphics files, creating clean and accurate product markings, and take pride in quality craftsmanship, this role offers long-term stability with a respected industry leader.


What You'll Do

Core Responsibilities:

  • Operate laser engraving and marking equipment to etch identification marks, serial numbers, part numbers, and logos onto precision metal gages and tools
  • Convert and upload graphics files (PDF, JPG, vector graphics) into laser system software for production runs
  • Adjust laser parameters including power settings, font width, font height, and mark depth based on engineering specifications and material requirements
  • Set up and align precision gages and parts for accurate mark placement according to engineering drawings and work orders
  • Perform quality inspections to ensure all markings are clear, legible, accurate, and meet specifications
  • Verify part counts and ensure proper identification and documentation throughout the engraving process
  • Support both standard production runs and expedited orders while maintaining quality standards
  • Perform routine equipment maintenance including lens cleaning, calibration checks, and minor troubleshooting
  • Maintain an organized, clean, and safe work area following company safety protocols
  • Communicate effectively with team members, quality control, and supervisors regarding job status, quality issues, or production concerns


What We're Looking For

Required:

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • 6 months to 2 years of experience in one or more of the following:
  • Laser engraving or laser marking operations (preferred)
  • Graphics software and file conversion (Photoshop, Illustrator, CorelDRAW, or similar)
  • Manufacturing or quality control in precision environments
  • CNC laser operation with experience in text/font work
  • Trophy/awards engraving, custom engraving, or industrial part marking
  • Mechanically inclined with strong attention to detail
  • Quality-focused mindset and comfortable performing precision work
  • Ability to work in a manufacturing environment and meet production deadlines
  • Strong communication skills and ability to work collaboratively

Preferred Skills:

  • Blueprint or engineering drawing interpretation
  • Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, or similar graphics software experience
  • Experience converting PDF/JPG files to machine-readable formats
  • Quality control or inspection experience in precision manufacturing
  • Familiarity with laser safety procedures
  • Background in graphic design or visual layout


Physical Requirements & Work Environment

  • Standing, sitting, and walking throughout the shift
  • Frequent use of hands and arms for equipment operation and part handling
  • Close visual focus for extended periods to inspect marking quality
  • Occasional lifting up to 25 lbs
  • Moderate noise manufacturing environment
  • Work with precision measurement tools and high-value products


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