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Laser Machine Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

UNARCO MATERIAL HANDLING LLC

Laser Tech

Springfield, TN · On-site

Maintain accurate documentation for programs, machine settings, and known issues * Coordinate with ... Experience operating and supporting laser cutting equipment in a production environment * Able to ...

Nextaff

Nights-Laser/Brake Press Operator

Jackson, TN · On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

Responsibilities include setting up and operating laser cutting and brake press machines, reading and interpreting blueprints, performing quality checks, and ensuring parts meet specifications. The ...

Nextaff

Nights-Laser/Brake Press Operator

Jackson, TN · On-site

$20/hr

Responsibilities include setting up and operating laser cutting and brake press machines, reading and interpreting blueprints, performing quality checks, and ensuring parts meet specifications. The ...

Nextaff

Nights-Laser/Brake Press Operator

Jackson, TN · On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

Responsibilities include setting up and operating laser cutting and brake press machines, reading and interpreting blueprints, performing quality checks, and ensuring parts meet specifications. The ...

Nextaff

Days-Laser/Brake Press Operator

Jackson, TN · On-site

$19/hr

Responsibilities include setting up and operating laser cutting and brake press machines, reading and interpreting blueprints, performing quality checks, and ensuring parts meet specifications. The ...

Whirlpool

Auto Press Operator

Cleveland, TN · On-site

$13.75 - $18/hr

Start, monitor, and stop automatic power presses, ensuring the machine runs at rated strokes per ... Laser Cutting systems. Set up automated welding cells (MIG, Spot, Projection), changing tips ...

Express Employment - Jackson, TN

CNC Operator

Jackson, TN · On-site

$18 - $26/hr

As a CNC Operator, you will play a crucial role in our manufacturing process, ensuring precision ... Manual Machining Skills Machines & technologies you'll use: * CNC Mill (3-4 axis VMC) * CNC Laser ...

AHF LLC

Operator; 3rd Shift Deco/Glaze

Crossville, TN · On-site

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

Operator, 3rd Shift BENEFITS: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K AHF Products has a job opportunity for ... laser rollers, washing booths, air power pumps, powder machines, emergency cords, disc booth and ...

pens.com

Production Trainer

Shelbyville, TN · On-site

The Deco Machine Trainer is responsible for developing the technical capabilities of production operators across all decoration lines (Helix, DTF, Laser, Pad Print, Screen Print etc.). The role ...

National Pen

Production Trainer

Shelbyville, TN · On-site

The Deco Machine Trainer is responsible for developing the technical capabilities of production operators across all decoration lines (Helix, DTF, Laser, Pad Print, Screen Print etc.). The role ...

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All JobsLaser Machine Operator JobsLaser Machine Operator Jobs in Tennessee

Laser Machine Operator information

See Tennessee salary details

$13

$17

$21

How much do laser machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for laser machine operator in Tennessee is $17.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $19.18 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.
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Laser Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Laser Machine Operator job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 25% Contract, and 25% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,170 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Laser Tech

UNARCO Material Handling, Inc.

Springfield, TN • On-site

Other

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Position Summary
The Laser Technician is responsible for the operation of the facility's Mitsubishi laser cutting system. This salaried role is responsible for equipment reliability, programming, process optimization, and continuous improvement across laser cutting technologies. This is an onsite, hands-on position. This position requires a highly self-directed technician who can balance day-to-day operational excellence with long-term process improvement and technology development.
Hours: Monday through Thursday nights 4 pm- 2:30 am
Key Responsibilities:
Laser Operations
  • Own overall performance, reliability, and optimization of the Mitsubishi laser cutting system
  • Program, set up, and optimize laser cutting operations using G-code and M-code
  • Troubleshoot and resolve mechanical, electrical, and process-related laser issues
  • Monitor and improve cut quality, scrap, uptime, and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE)
  • Develop and refine cutting processes for a variety of materials and thicknesses
  • Maintain accurate documentation for programs, machine settings, and known issues
  • Coordinate with maintenance, engineering, and OEM support to resolve complex issues

Required Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent
  • Minimum of 1+ year(s) of experience as a Laser Technician or higher
  • Experience operating and supporting laser cutting equipment in a production environment
  • Able to read and interpret mechanical drawings/documents

Preferred Qualifications
  • Able to read in G-code and M-code languages
  • Experience with automated systems, using knowledge of microprocessors, programmable controllers, electronics, circuit analysis, sensor or feedback systems, etc.

Professional Expectations
  • Operates with a high level of independence and ownership
  • Proactively identifies improvement opportunities when equipment is running well
  • Demonstrates discipline in documentation, process control, and follow-through
  • Strong problem-solving and root-cause analysis capability
  • Collaborates effectively with engineering, maintenance, and production teams
  • Willingness to support urgent issues as needed to ensure critical equipment uptime

Apply