1

Laser Machine Operator Jobs in Fort Wayne, IN (NOW HIRING)

Manufacturing Operator

Columbia City, IN ยท On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

Manufacturing Operator

Columbia City, IN ยท On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

Manufacturing Operator

Columbia City, IN ยท On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

Waterjet Operator - 1st Shift

Fort Wayne, IN

$16.75 - $20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Experience operating and/or programing waterjets, laser cutting machines or CNC routers Experience operating CNC machines. We offer competitive pay and great benefits to support your career and life ...

Waterjet Operator - 1st Shift

Fort Wayne, IN ยท On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

... laser cutting machines or CNC routers ยท Experience operating CNC machines. We offer competitive pay and great benefits to support your career and life outside of work: * Insurance Options: HSA ...

Deburr Operator

Hicksville, OH ยท On-site

$18/hr

Perform break out operations from the laser cutter, separating the pieces cut from the steel blanks ... Experience as a machine operator in a production environment preferred. Work Schedule: * This is a ...

Perform break out operations from the laser cutter, separating the pieces cut from the steel blanks ... Experience as a machine operator in a production environment preferred. Work Schedule: * This is a ...

Perform break out operations from the laser cutter, separating the pieces cut from the steel blanks ... Experience as a machine operator in a production environment preferred. Work Schedule: * This is a ...

Operator 1

Fort Wayne, IN ยท On-site

$16.25 - $20/hr

Operators may be cross trained, and move from one machine, area, or department to meet customer ... Laser cutting equipment * Shears * Packaging * Painting * Assembly * Resistance and fusion welding

Operator 1

Fort Wayne, IN ยท On-site

$16.25 - $20/hr

Operators may be cross trained, and move from one machine, area, or department to meet customer ... Laser cutting equipment * Shears * Packaging * Painting * Assembly * Resistance and fusion welding

CNC Operator III

Ossian, IN ยท On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Description OVERVIEW Cadrex is searching for a CNC Operator III who will play a critical role in ... laser cutting, sheet metal fabrication, complex assembly, CNC punching, CNC machining, forming ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Laser Machine Operator information

See Fort Wayne, IN salary details

$14

$19

$23

How much do laser machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for laser machine operator in Fort Wayne, IN is $19.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $20.87 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.

What are popular job titles related to Laser Machine Operator jobs in Fort Wayne, IN?

For Laser Machine Operator jobs in Fort Wayne, IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Laser Machine Operator jobs in Fort Wayne, IN look for?

The top searched job categories for Laser Machine Operator jobs in Fort Wayne, IN are:

Infographic showing various Laser Machine Operator job openings in Fort Wayne, IN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,406 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

$15.75 - $19/hr

Full-time, Other

Medical

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

Position Title:Second Shift Machine Operator
Department: Machining
Last Revised:4/2026
Reports To:Machining Manager

Position Purpose
The Second Shift Machine Operator's role plays a key part in keeping our operations running smoothly by safely operating a variety of machines and equipment. This position is only offered on second shift and allows the ability to work across multiple departments and learn to operate various equipment. The position is critical to flow where we are most busy at that time and help us deliver on time to our customers. The position has a unique ability to make base wage, plus shift premium, and grow wage significantly by becoming proficient in more departments and machine operations.

Job Functions and Responsibilities

Operate a variety of machines and equipment to make parts

Use basic hand tools to assemble parts

Follow all safety protocols

Read and use precision measuring tools such as calipers and micrometers

Move materials and parts using manual methods or equipment such as hoists, cranes, and forklifts

The following are machines that you could be trained on and learn. Not all are required; it depends on the Machine Operator's experience and willingness to learn. The more an operator learns, the more they can progress through the wage scale.

CNC 3-Axis Mill: run machine and then learn set up machine

CNC 5-Axis Mill: run machine and then learn set up machine

CNC Single Spindle Lathe: run machine and then learn set up machine

CNC multi-Spindle Lathe: run machine and then learn set up machine

Laser Cutting Equipment: run machine and then learn set up machine

Brake Press: learn to set tooling and run the machine

Robotic Welding: learn to load, unload, and run the machine

Powder Coating: learn to clean, spray, and bake parts

Robot Laser Etching: learn to load, unload, and run the machine

Wiring: learn to wire electrical panels and industrial devices

Small Parts Assembly: use hand tools to assemble small parts

Machine Assembly: learn to assemble, wire, and program small and medium sized machines

Education and Experience

  • Strong work ethic is absolutely required. Willingness to stay busy and learn new equipment as needed
  • Mechanical aptitude or experience in a manufacturing/industrial environment is helpful
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings
  • Ability to use basic hand and power tools
  • Strong basic math skills

Classification
Full-Time, Non-Exempt

Supervisory Responsibilities
This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to stand, squat, bend or kneel up to 10-hours
  • Ability to lift 20 lbs. regularly and up to 50 lbs. occasionally
  • Comfortable using both small hand tools and larger power equipment
  • Ability to see fine details in prints, on screens, and in machinery (with or without corrective lenses)

Tools and Technology

  • Use computer systems for job tracking, timekeeping, and production reporting

Paid company shutdowns, $0 Health Insurance, and Access to Hicksville Direct Primary Care are just a few of the benefits at APT.