ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Laser Machine Operator Jobs in North Carolina (NOW HIRING)

Morris Associates

Laser Operator - 2nd Shift

Garner, NC

$15.75 - $20/hr

Laser Machine Operator - 2nd Shift (Mon-Thurs 5P-3:30AM - Friday OT as needed) Location: Garner, NC Company: Morris and Associates Employment Type: Full-Time Salary: Competitive Salary + Benefits ...

Morris Associates

Laser Operator - 2nd Shift

Garner, NC · On-site

$15.75 - $20/hr

Laser Machine Operator - 2nd Shift (Mon-Thurs 5P-3:30AM - Friday OT as needed) Location: Garner, NC Company: Morris and Associates Employment Type: Full-Time Salary: Competitive Salary + Benefits ...

Morris & Associates

Laser Operator - 2nd Shift

Garner, NC · On-site

$15.75 - $20/hr

Laser Machine Operator - 2nd Shift (Mon-Thurs 5P-3:30AM - Friday OT as needed) Location: Garner, NC Company: Morris and Associates Employment Type: Full-Time Salary: Competitive Salary + Benefits ...

IFab Corporation

Laser Operator

Gastonia, NC · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

The Laser Operator will be responsible for setting up and operating laser cutting machines to cut ... Machine Setup and Calibration: Prepare the laser cutting machine for production by loading ...

Industrial Fabricators

Laser Operator

Gastonia, NC · On-site

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

The Laser Operator will be responsible for setting up and operating laser cutting machines to cut ... Machine Setup and Calibration: Prepare the laser cutting machine for production by loading ...

Custom Patch Hats

Heat Press and Laser Operator

Raleigh, NC

$18.50 - $21.50/hr

Heat Press and Laser Operator Department: Production Classification: Non-exempt Reports to ... Operate heat press machines to apply patches or transfers with precision and consistency. * Monitor ...

TriEst Ag Group, Inc.

CNC Laser Operator

Williamston, NC · On-site

$18.25 - $22.75/hr

N/A More about this job > Description CNC Laser Operator Machine Operator | CNC Laser Operations | Manufacturing | Metal Fabrication Location: Williamston, NC Schedule: First Shift | Monday-Thursday ...

TriEst Ag Group, Inc.

CNC Laser Operator

Williamston, NC · On-site

$18.25 - $22.75/hr

CNC Laser Operator Machine Operator | CNC Laser Operations | Manufacturing | Metal Fabrication Location: Williamston, NC Schedule: First Shift | Monday-Thursday (4-Day Work Week) Overview TriEst Ag ...

IFab Corporation

Laser Punch Operator

Gastonia, NC · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

The Laser Punch Operator is responsible for setting up and operating laser punch machines to produce precision metal parts according to engineering specifications, ensuring quality, safety, and ...

Industrial Fabricators

Laser Punch Operator

Gastonia, NC · On-site

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

TheLaser Punch Operator is responsible for setting up and operating laser punch machines to produce precision metal parts according to engineering specifications, ensuring quality, safety, and ...

Aerotek

Laser Operator

Asheville, NC · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Fiber Optic Machine Operator Technician The Laser Operator Technician sets up, operates, monitors, and maintains fiber optic manufacturing equipment to produce high-quality products in a fast-paced ...

The Steel Network

Machine Operator

Durham, NC

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Machine Operator ID: 2104 Location: Durham, NC Department: Operations More about this job ... lasers, welding, and more. This is a full-time position on the Roll Forming team. The operator ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLaser Machine Operator JobsLaser Machine Operator Jobs in North Carolina

Laser Machine Operator information

See North Carolina salary details

$13

$17

$21

How much do laser machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for laser machine operator in North Carolina is $17.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a laser machine operator?

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 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.

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 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.

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.

How much do laser machine operators make in the US?

Laser machine operators in the US typically earn an average annual salary of around $40,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in CAD software or advanced machinery may earn higher wages. The role often requires attention to detail and safety training.

Is being a laser machine operator hard?

Laser machine operators need to have good attention to detail, technical skills, and the ability to follow safety protocols. The job involves operating complex equipment, making precise adjustments, and sometimes working in a fast-paced environment. While it can be challenging initially, proper training and experience help develop proficiency in the role.
More about Laser Machine Operator jobs

What are popular job titles related to Laser Machine Operator jobs in North Carolina?

For Laser Machine Operator jobs in North Carolina, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Laser Machine Operator jobs in North Carolina look for?

The top searched job categories for Laser Machine Operator jobs in North Carolina are:

What cities in North Carolina are hiring for Laser Machine Operator jobs?

Cities in North Carolina with the most Laser Machine Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Laser Machine Operator jobs in NC?

For Laser Machine Operator jobs in NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Laser Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Laser Machine Operator job openings in North Carolina as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 46% Part Time, 7% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,218 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Laser Cutting Operator

Skilled Trades Services

Charlotte, NC

$25 - $30/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

LASER CUTTING MACHINE OPERATOR
Charlotte, NC | Skilled Trades Services

If you’ve got real time behind a laser—this is where you want to be.

We’re not looking for entry-level.
We’re looking for operators who know the machines, know the materials, and take pride in precision work.

THE ROLE

You’ll be running high-performance laser cutting equipment producing tight-tolerance, high-quality parts in a fast-paced shop environment.

Tube Laser experience? That’s a BIG win.
Plasma or Waterjet background? We like that too.

MUST-HAVE EXPERIENCE (READ BEFORE APPLYING)

We’re serious about this part ?'?

  •  You MUST have hands-on laser cutting experience
  • You MUST have worked with at least one of these:
  • Bystronic
  • Trumpf
  • Mitsubishi
  • Cincinnati
  • Amada
  • Hankwank (HK)

No laser experience? This isn’t the role for you
Never operated a laser machine? Keep scrolling

WHAT YOU’LL BE DOING
  • Set up and operate fiber laser cutting machines (Hankwank + others)
  • Dial in cutting parameters (speed, power, gas flow) like a pro
  • Read blueprints and execute with precision
  • Monitor production and adjust for quality + efficiency
  • Perform basic maintenance + troubleshoot issues
  • Inspect parts to ensure tight tolerances are met
  • Keep your station clean, safe, and production-ready
WHAT YOU BRING TO THE TABLE
  • Solid experience with CNC / Laser Cutting equipment
  • Strong blueprint reading + layout skills
  • Familiarity with CAD/CAM and machine programming
  • Mechanical aptitude (you can fix things, not just run them)
  • Sharp eye for detail and quality
  • Safety-first mindset (OSHA awareness is key)
MATERIALS YOU’LL BE CUTTING

If you’ve worked with these—you’ll fit right in:

  • Stainless Steel
  • Carbon / Mild Steel
  • Aluminum
  • Brass
  • Copper (depending on setup)
WHO THRIVES HERE
  • Operators who take pride in clean, accurate work
  • People who show up, get it done, and do it right
  • Self-starters who don’t need hand-holding
  • Team players who can also run solo
WHY THIS ROLE STANDS OUT
  • Work with top-tier equipment
  • Be part of a team that respects skilled operators
  • Steady work with real opportunity
READY TO APPLY?

If you’ve got the experience and want to be part of a solid operation—we want to talk to you.

Apply now or message us directly to get started.

STARTING PAY?
If you’ve got the experience, my client is willing to start at $25-$30 an hour!

Skilled Trades Services logo

About Skilled Trades Services

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Skilled construction work requires experience, diligence, and dedication to the job at hand. Whether your project needs one tradesperson or an entire team, we’re your full-service firm, ready to provide the top skilled workers and everything that goes with hiring them. Trust our team to handle everything from recruitment to payroll, so you can focus on getting the job done.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Brookfield, WI, US

Year founded

1974

Social media

FacebookTwitter

View All Skilled Trades Services Jobs

Apply