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Laser Machine Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Procon Inc

Screed/Dozer Operator

Rocky Mount, VA · On-site

Calibrate laser guides * Setup 3d system and mapping * Operate and maintain equipment to ensure ... Thoroughly clean screed machine at the end of each shift. No concrete should be on the machine

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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 Aug 5, 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.

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
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 90% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,602 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Tube Laser Machine Operator

Anonymous Employer

Petersburg, VA • On-site

$30 - $34/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

About the job

Company 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.
  • Clean and maintain the machine.
  • Train 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 lift 50 lbs. for up to 10 hours per day, when necessary
  • Have prior experience running Plasma or Laser machining centers, with special consideration given to those running burn tables, plasma robots, or laser machining centers.
  • Be open to various shifts and schedules (Discussed at interview, as we are a growing rapidly and have exciting opportunities in this arena)
  • Acknowledge, before employment begins, their thorough understanding of Triad’s pay scale and incentive program by signing the hiring document, along with opportunities for advancement within the group.
  • Company pays a shift differential for off shift hours worked, and overtime is paid after 40 hours worked.
  • After six months of employment, the operator will join the team’s incentive program.

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

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