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Laser Machine Operator Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Laser Operator - 2nd Shift

Garner, NC

$15.75 - $20/hr

Laser Machine Operator - 2nd Shift (Mon-Thurs 5P-3:30AM - Friday OT as needed) Location: Garner, NC Company: Morris and Associates Employment Type: Full-Time Salary: Competitive Salary + Benefits ...

Laser Operator - 2nd Shift

Garner, NC · On-site

$15.75 - $20/hr

Laser Machine Operator - 2nd Shift (Mon-Thurs 5P-3:30AM - Friday OT as needed) Location: Garner, NC Company: Morris and Associates Employment Type: Full-Time Salary: Competitive Salary + Benefits ...

Laser Operator - 2nd Shift

Garner, NC · On-site

$15.75 - $20/hr

Laser Machine Operator - 2nd Shift (Mon-Thurs 5P-3:30AM - Friday OT as needed) Location: Garner, NC Company: Morris and Associates Employment Type: Full-Time Salary: Competitive Salary + Benefits ...

Machine Operator

Durham, NC · On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Machine Operator ID: 2102 Location: Durham, NC Department: Operations More about this job ... lasers, welding, and more. This is a full-time position on the Roll Forming team. The operator ...

Machine Operator

Durham, NC · On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

TSN is seeking to hire a Machine Operator to join our team. We foster a collaborative environment ... lasers, welding, and more. This is a full-time position on the Roll Forming team. The operator ...

2nd shift Laser Operator NC

Henderson, NC · On-site

$16.50 - $21/hr

... Laser Operator at MGM Products Inc., you will be required to lift/push/pull 5x10 sheets of metal ... You will be responsible for operating the CNC machine for a variety of parts from small to large.

2nd shift Laser Operator NC

Henderson, NC · On-site

$16.50 - $21/hr

... Laser Operator at MGM Products Inc., you will be required to lift/push/pull 5x10 sheets of metal ... You will be responsible for operating the CNC machine for a variety of parts from small to large.

PEMsert Operator

Oxford, NC · On-site

$16 - $21.25/hr

... machining, laser cutting, sheet metal fabrication, complex welding, assembly, surface finishing ... The PEMsert Operator installs threaded inserts, standoffs, and other hardware into sheet metal ...

... machining, laser cutting, sheet metal fabrication, complex welding, assembly, surface finishing ... The PEMsert Operator installs threaded inserts, standoffs, and other hardware into sheet metal ...

CNC/EDM Machinist

Durham, NC

$19.75 - $27/hr

As a CNC/EDM machinist you will be responsible for operating, maintaining, and testing a variety of ... wire saws, lasers * Process a variety of test samples and parts to internal and external ...

Tooling Crib Attendant

Oxford, NC · On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

... machining, laser cutting, sheet metal fabrication, complex welding, assembly, surface finishing ... You will work directly with machine operators, setup technicians, and production supervisors to ...

Oversee all second shift operations including laser cutting, turret punch presses, press brakes ... Ensure machinery and material handling equipment are operated safely. * Report incidents and ...

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Laser Machine Operator information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$14

$19

$23

How much do laser machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for laser machine operator in Raleigh, NC is $19.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.74 and $20.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What machine operator pays the most?

Among machine operators, laser machine operators often earn higher wages due to specialized skills in operating laser cutting and engraving equipment. Factors such as experience, certifications, and the industry or location can also influence pay rates, with those working in manufacturing or aerospace typically earning more. Overall, laser machine operators tend to have higher earning potential compared to other general machine operators.

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 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 does a laser operator do?

A laser machine operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining laser cutting or engraving equipment to produce precise parts or designs. They interpret technical drawings, ensure safety protocols, and may need certifications in laser safety or machine operation. The role requires attention to detail and knowledge of materials and tools used in laser processing.

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 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. Compensation can also vary based on the complexity of the equipment and shift differentials.

How much do CNC operators earn?

CNC machine operators typically earn between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators with certifications and proficiency in CAD/CAM software may earn higher wages and have opportunities for overtime or shift differentials.
What are popular job titles related to Laser Machine Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Laser Machine Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Laser Machine Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Laser Machine Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Laser Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Laser Machine Operator job openings:
Laser Operator - 2nd Shift

$15.75 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Laser Machine Operator - 2nd Shift (Mon-Thurs 5P-3:30AM - Friday OT as needed)


Location: Garner, NC


Company: Morris and Associates


Employment Type: Full-Time


Salary: Competitive Salary + Benefits


About us:


Morris & Associates is an employee-owned US-based, global provider of custom process cooling solutions. The company began in 1949 with a focus on providing process cooling solutions to the rapidly expanding poultry processing industry. Since then, we have expanded to provide process cooling solutions around the world for a variety of industries with Morris equipment currently found in 50 countries and 5 continents.


Innovation and an intense focus on building valuable partnerships with customers are key factors in our success as well as our reputation as a "go-to" source for the most challenging process cooling issues.
Another cornerstone of our success is our unique ability to lead complicated projects from the initial idea, through design/engineering and manufacturing, to installation as well as on-site service and support. We truly are a "one-stop-shop" in process cooling solutions.

https://morristhermal.com/


Job Description:


  • Responsible for set-up and operation of laser cutting machines to produce products meeting customer quality requirements. Must also operate and process parts according to print and traveler requirements and monitor machine cutting performance and utilization.


Key Responsibilities:


  • Understand machine setup including program retrieval, proper gases, proper nozzles, and materials.
  • Operate machine to produce parts per specification.
  • Understands startup and proper shutdown of machine.
  • Diagnose machine problems while performing jobs and make corrections as needed.
  • Operate Lift trucks to load and unload materials.
  • Ability to read calipers and hand tools.
  • Monitor quality of cutting condition and adjust as needed.
  • Maintain safe operations by adhering to safety procedures.
  • Perform Operator maintenance per established schedules.
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area.
  • Keep machine clean and empty debris.
  • Change out scrap bin when full.


Qualifications:


  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Good computer skills
  • Ability to read and follow instructions
  • 3 to 5 years experience with Laser machines
  • 3 to 5 years in a Manufacturing environment
  • Experience operating lift trucks
  • Bystronics experience preferred


Benefits:


  • Health/Dental/Vision Insurance
  • Vacation Time
  • Sick Time
  • Life Insurance
  • Long Term Disability
  • ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan)


Must be authorized to work in the U.S.

We look forward to welcoming a new member to our team!