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Laser Machine Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

BERETTA USA CORP

Heat Treat Finish Operator I

Gallatin, TN · On-site

$19.21/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Heat Treat Finish Operator I - 2nd Shift M-F 2:30pm-11:00pm Pay Rate: $18.21/hr Department ... EDM wire machine, Sandblast and Shot peen machines, Bruniton Paint booth, Paint Dots, Laser ...

Laborup

Tool Maker & Machinist

Maryville, TN · On-site

$28 - $34/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... laser welding and complex mold repairs. This is a traditional tooling environment that values ... While you may not be an expert in every single machine listed, a willingness to learn and jump ...

Laborup

Tool Maker & Machinist

Maryville, TN

$28 - $34/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... laser welding and complex mold repairs. This is a traditional tooling environment that values ... While you may not be an expert in every single machine listed, a willingness to learn and jump ...

Laborup

Tool Maker & Machinist

Maryville, TN · On-site

$28 - $34/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... laser welding and complex mold repairs. This is a traditional tooling environment that values ... While you may not be an expert in every single machine listed, a willingness to learn and jump ...

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Showing results 41-60

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 Aug 14, 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.

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 and have better job prospects.

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 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 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.

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.

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.
More about Laser Machine Operator jobs

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

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

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

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

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.

Precision CNC Production Machinist

Express Employment - Jackson, TN

Jackson, TN • On-site

$18 - $26/hr

Other

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

A day in the role

At our Jackson, TN, 38305 facility, your shift begins at a CNC workstation where precision drives every move. You review the print, load the program, set tools and offsets, and run a first piece to verify it meets spec. Throughout the day you keep an eye on feeds, speeds, and finishes, make smart adjustments, and move between a 3–4 axis VMC, a CNC laser cutter, and a CNC plasma cutter as jobs flow through the cell. When questions arise, you partner with teammates to troubleshoot, complete routine maintenance to keep machines in top form, and leave your area spotless and safe.

What you'll handle
  • Set up and operate CNC equipment to produce high-quality parts to specification.
  • Read and interpret drawings/blueprints to determine machining steps and tooling.
  • Monitor operations, adjusting programs and tooling to maintain quality standards.
  • Perform routine maintenance to sustain optimal machine performance.
  • Inspect finished components for accuracy and conformance to specifications.
  • Collaborate with team members to troubleshoot and resolve production issues.
  • Maintain a clean, organized work area while following safety protocols.
What you bring
  • High school diploma or equivalent; technical training in CNC operation preferred.
  • Proven experience as a CNC Operator or in a similar manufacturing role.
  • Solid understanding of CNC machinery, tooling, and programming concepts.
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and schematics.
  • Keen attention to detail and strong problem-solving skills.
  • Comfort working independently and as part of a team.
  • Familiarity with manufacturing safety practices and standards.
Proficiencies that set you apart
  • CNC Tooling
  • Troubleshooting Skills
  • CNC Programming
  • CNC Machine Repair
  • CNC Machine Installation
  • CNC Machine Setup & Changeover
  • Manual Machining Skills
Equipment you'll run
  • CNC Mill (3–4 axis VMC)
  • CNC Laser Cutter
  • CNC Plasma Cutter

If you’re driven by accuracy and enjoy seeing parts come together the right way, we’d love to connect.