ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Laser Machine Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Triad Metals

Tube Laser Machine Operator

Petersburg, VA · On-site

$18.75 - $21.50/hr

Tube Laser Machine Operator Established in 1987, Triad Metals International is a privately held, independent company that has grown to become one of the premier distributors of structural steel ...

Tate, Inc.

Laser Operator - St. Paul, VA

Saint Paul, VA · On-site

$15.75 - $20/hr

Operates, programs, and troubleshoots tube laser machinery. * Conducts first piece article ... Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), Manufacturing Operating Procedures (MOPs), Job Safety ...

Tread Corporation

Machine Operator

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

DESCRIPTION: Machine operator is responsible for safe operation of blanking equipment. This ... SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES: · Laser: o Ability to set up and run CNC laser o Ability to identify ...

Lawrence Brothers Inc

Laser Operator

Bluefield, VA

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Operate and program laser cutting machines using nesting reports and laser software * Read and ... Proficiency operating mill machine, band saw, and tapping machine * Basic mechanical ...

Lawrence Brothers Inc

Laser Operator

Bluefield, VA

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Operate and program laser cutting machines using nesting reports and laser software * Read and ... Proficiency operating mill machine, band saw, and tapping machine * Basic mechanical ...

Lawrence Brothers Inc

Laser Operator

Bluefield, VA

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Operate and program laser cutting machines using nesting reports and laser software * Read and ... Proficiency operating mill machine, band saw, and tapping machine * Basic mechanical ...

Lawrence Brothers Inc

Laser Operator

Bluefield, VA · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Operate and program laser cutting machines using nesting reports and laser software * Read and ... Proficiency operating mill machine, band saw, and tapping machine * Basic mechanical ...

Blueprint Automation

Laser Operator

Colonial Heights, VA · On-site

$17.25 - $22/hr

As a Laser Operator, you will be responsible for operating and maintaining a laser cutting machine ... Set up and prepare the laser cutting machine for production runs, including loading materials, and ...

Triad Metals

Manufacturing Operator

Petersburg, VA · On-site

$17.25 - $20.50/hr

Plasma Robot Operator, Plasma Burn Table Operator, and Laser Cutting Machine Operator. In each of these positions, you will be responsible for the safe, efficient, and precise operation of industry ...

New

Triad Metals

Manufacturing Operator

Petersburg, VA · On-site

$17.25 - $20.50/hr

Plasma Robot Operator, Plasma Burn Table Operator, and Laser Cutting Machine Operator. In each of these positions, you will be responsible for the safe, efficient, and precise operation of industry ...

New

Triad Metals

Manufacturing Operator

Petersburg, VA · On-site

$17.25 - $20.50/hr

Plasma Robot Operator, Plasma Burn Table Operator, and Laser Cutting Machine Operator. In each of these positions, you will be responsible for the safe, efficient, and precise operation of industry ...

New

Aerotek

Cnc Operator

Fredericksburg, VA

$19 - $25/hr

CNC Operator This role supports the production of high-quality metal fencing and barrier systems ... Set up, operate, and monitor CNC machines, including laser cutters, plasma cutters, routers, and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLaser Machine Operator JobsLaser Machine Operator Jobs in Virginia

Laser Machine Operator information

See Virginia 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 Virginia is $19.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.12 and $20.96 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.
More about Laser Machine Operator jobs
What are popular job titles related to Laser Machine Operator jobs in Virginia? For Laser Machine Operator jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Laser Machine Operator jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Laser Machine Operator jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Laser Machine Operator jobs in VA? For Laser Machine Operator jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Laser Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Laser Machine Operator job openings in Virginia 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 $40,602 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Tube Laser Machine Operator

Triad Metals

Petersburg, VA • On-site

$18.75 - $21.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Tube Laser Machine Operator

Established in 1987, Triad Metals International is a privately held, independent company that has grown to become one of the premier distributors of structural steel, tubing, piling, and plate products. We are looking to hire a Machine Operator to join our team in Petersburg, Virginia!

Successful Candidates will be expected to:

  • Load raw materials onto the CNC machine.
  • Input the product design into the computer modeling software.
  • Choose and load the correct cutting tools for the job.
  • Adjust machine settings to the desired product specifications.
  • Troubleshoot issues during the manufacturing process.
  • Complete quality control tests during the manufacturing stage and on the final product.
  • Cleaning and maintaining the machine.
  • Training new staff on machine operation procedures.
  • Programming CNC machines
  • 2 years' experience in CNC machines mandatory with carbon steel
  • Proficient at CNC, set-up, & operation of CNC
  • Extensive knowledge of gauges & measuring instruments
  • Ability to read & interpret blueprints or drawings & understand geometric dimensioning & tolerance (GD&T)
  • Ability to articulate in all forms of communication & excellent critical thinking skills

Qualifications/Required Experience:

  • High School Diploma or equivalent is required
  • 2 or more years of CNC machine experience working on CNC type machines is required
  • Must be able to stand, bend, walk, and life 50 lbs. for up to 10 hours per day, when necessary

Job Type: Full-Time position, which includes health, dental, and vision benefits, as well as a company matched 401K plan

Additional:

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed by the employee assigned to this position. They are no exclusive lists of all job duties and responsibilities, knowledge, skills, abilities, physical job requirements or demands, or working conditions associated with this position.

Apply