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Laser Machine Operator Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Landscape Structures

Sheet Laser Operator

Delano, MN · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

With the use of work instructions and drawings the laser operator will accurately and efficiently ... Minimum of 3 years' experience in laser related machining skills * Must have some understanding of ...

Lakeland Companies

Laser Engraver

Gaylord, MN · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

High school diploma or equivalent; technical training preferred. * 1-2 years of experience operating laser engraving or CNC machinery in a manufacturing setting. * Ability to read and interpret ...

Lakeland Companies

Laser Engraver

Gaylord, MN · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

High school diploma or equivalent; technical training preferred. * 1-2 years of experience operating laser engraving or CNC machinery in a manufacturing setting. * Ability to read and interpret ...

VitalPath

Machine Set-Up Operator 2nd shift

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$24 - $27/hr

Join VitalPath in Maplewood as a Machine Set-Up Operator! About VitalPath VitalPath is a trusted ... Experience with braiders, coilers, laser welders, oven and reflow machines preferred Compensation ...

Life Fitness

Laser Operator - 2nd Shift

Ramsey, MN · On-site

$21.25 - $26.13/hr

Set-up, operate and adjust machinery according to laser set up sheet and/or Kanban cards * Operator the laser computer * Load raw steel to laser and unload finished product from laser * Perform a ...

States Manufacturing LLC

Fabrication Operator

Champlin, MN · On-site

$26.50 - $31.50/hr

... machines such as a laser, waterjet, punch press, press brake, shear, and forklift. The ability to use measurement tools such as calipers and micrometers and the ability to read blueprints/schematics ...

States Manufacturing LLC

Fabrication Operator

Osseo, MN

$26.50 - $31.50/hr

... machines such as a laser, waterjet, punch press, press brake, shear, and forklift. The ability to use measurement tools such as calipers and micrometers and the ability to read blueprints/schematics ...

States Manufacturing

Fabrication Operator

Osseo, MN · On-site

$26.50 - $31.50/hr

... machines such as a laser, waterjet, punch press, press brake, shear, and forklift. The ability to use measurement tools such as calipers and micrometers and the ability to read blueprints/schematics ...

States Manufacturing

Fabrication Operator

Champlin, MN · On-site

$26.50 - $31.50/hr

... machines such as a laser, waterjet, punch press, press brake, shear, and forklift. The ability to use measurement tools such as calipers and micrometers and the ability to read blueprints/schematics ...

Aerotek

Press Brake Operator

Minneapolis, MN

$23 - $28/hr

... presses, and laser machines to support high-quality sheet metal fabrication. You will handle ... Experience operating CNC laser and CNC turret equipment. * Background with tube bending and laser ...

MGM Transformers

Fabrication Operator

Osseo, MN · On-site

$26.50 - $31.50/hr

... machines such as a laser, waterjet, punch press, press brake, shear, and forklift. The ability to use measurement tools such as calipers and micrometers and the ability to read blueprints/schematics ...

MGM Transformers

Fabrication Operator

Champlin, MN · On-site

$26.50 - $31.50/hr

... machines such as a laser, waterjet, punch press, press brake, shear, and forklift. The ability to use measurement tools such as calipers and micrometers and the ability to read blueprints/schematics ...

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All JobsLaser Machine Operator JobsLaser Machine Operator Jobs in Minnesota

Laser Machine Operator information

See Minnesota salary details

$14

$19

$23

How much do laser machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for laser machine operator in Minnesota is $19.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.88 and $20.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are laser technicians in high demand?

Laser machine operators are in growing demand across manufacturing, medical, and industrial sectors due to increased automation and precision requirements. Skills in operating laser equipment, safety protocols, and certifications can enhance job prospects in this field.

How much do laser cutter operators make?

Laser machine operators typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $50,000 depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators who hold certifications or operate advanced equipment may earn higher wages.

What Does a Laser Machine Operator Do?

A laser machine operator assists with the setup, maintenance, and operation of a CNC machine. Your responsibilities in this career have you selecting lenses, loading programs, and calculating machine specs and parameters based on the thickness and type of material use. You then cut the material and prepare products for shipment. You maintain and repair equipment, fill the bulk tank system, reorder supplies, and keep the area organized and clean. Your duties have you set up and operate the equipment and assist other machine operators. As a laser machine operator, you work in a fast-paced environment, so you must be able to follow complicated instruction closely.

How much does a laser cutter operator make?

A laser machine operator typically earns between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators with certifications or specialized training may earn higher wages, especially in manufacturing or industrial settings.

Is there money in laser cutting?

Laser machine operators can earn a competitive wage, with salaries often increasing with experience, skill level, and certifications. The job typically involves working with high-precision equipment and may require overtime or shift work, which can also impact earnings.

What are Laser Machine Operators?

Laser Machine Operators are skilled technicians who set up, operate, and maintain laser cutting or engraving machines used in manufacturing and fabrication. Their responsibilities include interpreting blueprints, adjusting machine settings, ensuring product quality, and performing routine maintenance. They work with various materials such as metal, plastic, and wood to produce precise components or designs according to specifications. Safety and attention to detail are crucial in this role to prevent accidents and ensure accurate output.

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

To thrive as a Laser Machine Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and typically a high school diploma or technical training in manufacturing or machining. Familiarity with CNC laser cutting machines, CAD software, and safety protocols is essential, and certifications in machine operation or manufacturing technology are often preferred. Problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication help operators adapt to production demands and maintain quality standards. These skills and qualities ensure precise, efficient, and safe operation of laser machinery, which is critical for meeting production goals and maintaining workplace safety.

What is the difference between Laser Machine Operator vs CNC Machine Operator?

AspectLaser Machine OperatorCNC Machine Operator
Required CertificationsLaser safety training, technical certificationsMachining certifications, technical training
Work EnvironmentManufacturing, fabrication shops, industrial settingsManufacturing, metalworking, automotive industries
Employer & Industry UsageLaser cutting, engraving, precision fabricationAutomotive parts, aerospace, general machining

Both roles involve operating computer-controlled equipment in manufacturing environments. Laser Machine Operators focus on laser cutting and engraving, requiring laser safety certifications. CNC Machine Operators handle various machining tasks on CNC mills or lathes, often needing machining certifications. While their work environments overlap, their specific skills and equipment differ, making each role specialized within manufacturing industries.

What are some common challenges Laser Machine Operators face, and how can they be addressed?

Laser Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining precise tolerances, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and ensuring material quality. To address these, operators should stay up-to-date with machine maintenance schedules, follow safety protocols, and communicate regularly with quality control and engineering teams. Continuous training on new technologies and close attention to detail can help minimize errors and downtime, leading to more efficient production.

How much do laser operators make in the US?

Laser machine operators in the US typically earn between $35,000 and $55,000 annually, with median wages around $45,000. Salaries can vary based on experience, certifications, and the industry or region, and the role often requires familiarity with CAD software and safety protocols.

Is laser cutting a good career?

Laser machine operators play a key role in manufacturing by setting up, operating, and maintaining laser cutting equipment. The job often requires technical skills, attention to safety protocols, and knowledge of materials, with opportunities for advancement in industrial and fabrication settings. It can be a stable career with demand for skilled operators in various industries.
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Laser Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Laser Machine Operator job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,110 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

Turret Laser Combo Operator- 1st

Lake Air Products

Saint Paul, MN • On-site

$26 - $34/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

About Lake Air Products

Lake Air Products is a fast-growing contract manufacturer serving medical, aerospace & defense, industrial markets and more. We are committed to quality, performance, and building strong teams while proudly living by our Core Values: Customer Focus, Passion for Performance, and Right People – Best Teams.

Position Summary

We are seeking 1st shift Turret Laser Combo Set up Operator Turret/Laser Combo Operator is responsible for setting up and operating turret, laser, and combo fabrication equipment to produce quality sheet metal parts according to customer specifications and blueprints. This role works with state-of-the-art Amada equipment, performs tooling adjustments, inspects finished parts, and supports continuous improvement and productivity goals within a fast-paced manufacturing environment. The position requires strong blueprint reading, measurement, troubleshooting, and machine setup skills while maintaining safety, quality, and operational efficiency standards.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities


  • Verify that parts are properly loaded and that surfaces are properly prepared for fabricating. Confirm machine settings, tooling, and/or fixtures are appropriate to the part being run.
  • Starts and observes machine operation to detect malfunctions or out-of-tolerance machining and adjusts machine controls or control media as required. Perform routine machine maintenance.
  • Perform punching over a wide range of materials, diameters, and shapes.
  • Observe machine operation to detect workpiece defects or machine malfunction.
  • Documents actions by completing production and quality forms.
  • Studies blueprints, sketches, drawings, manuals, specifications, or sample parts to determine dimensions and tolerances of finished workpieces, sequence of operations, and setup requirements.
  • Ability to use applied knowledge, determine tool position and order to maximize machine efficiency, adjust ram strokes and material stop gauges, etc.
  • Demonstrated established knowledge and skill in performing set-ups and operating machines.
  • Confers with engineers, production personnel, programmers, or others to resolve machining or assembly problems.

Qualifications

  • High School Diploma or equivalent
  • 1+ years of experience operating/setting up turret punch press machines (LVD Strippit)) in a metal fabrication environment (Preferred)
  • Excellent people skills, with an ability to partner with a dynamic leadership team
  • Personal qualities of integrity, credibility, and a commitment to the mission
  • Flexible and able to multi-task; can work with an ambiguous, fast-moving environment, while also driving toward clarity and solutions; demonstrated resourcefulness in setting priorities and guiding investment in people and systems

Lake Air Products Offers:

  • Competitive Pay
  • Full Benefits
  • 401(k) Employer Match
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) and Holiday Pay
  • Gym Reimbursement
  • Tuition Reimbursement

Apply Today!

Join a company where your hard work, dedication, and growth matter. We look forward to meeting you!



5:00am to 3:30pm – Monday to Thursday