Laser Machine Programmer Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Department: Fabrication (30)

Reports To: Fabrication Supervisor 

Location: Elkhorn, WI 

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Position Summary

The Machine Operator I (Tube Laser) is responsible for setting up and operating TRUMPF tube laser equipment to cut and process tube and structural profiles according to production specifications. This position ensures parts are produced accurately, efficiently, and in accordance with established quality and production standards. The Machine Operator I monitors equipment performance, performs quality inspections, makes routine machine and process adjustments, and supports the safe and efficient flow of materials through the Fabrication department.

Key Responsibilities

· Set up and operate TRUMPF tube laser equipment in accordance with job specifications, work instructions, and production requirements.

· Load raw tube and profile materials into the machine and safely unload, sort, and identify completed parts.

· Review and interpret blueprints, job routers, cut lists, production schedules, and other manufacturing documentation to ensure accurate part production.

· Select and verify appropriate machine programs, material types, dimensions, and job parameters prior to beginning production.

· Perform machine setup activities, including loading materials, verifying tooling and fixtures, and preparing the machine for production runs.

· Monitor the cutting process and machine operation to ensure proper material feed, part quality, and efficient equipment performance.

· Perform in-process and completed-part inspections using calipers, micrometers, tape measures, gauges, and other measuring equipment.

· Verify critical dimensions, cut locations, hole placement, and overall part quality against blueprint and job specifications.

· Make routine machine and process adjustments within established operating parameters to maintain cut quality and production efficiency.

· Identify common machine, material, and cut-quality issues and perform basic troubleshooting; escalate equipment or programming concerns to the Team Lead, Supervisor, Maintenance, or other appropriate personnel.

· Monitor consumables and machine components and perform routine operator-level cleaning and maintenance as required.

· Maintain established production rates while consistently meeting quality requirements.

· Identify and immediately report defects, damaged materials, machine concerns, or nonconforming parts to the Team Lead or Supervisor.

· Complete required production, quality, inventory, and material documentation accurately and timely.

· Properly identify, organize, and stage raw materials, work-in-process, and completed parts to support departmental workflow.

· Safely move materials throughout the department using approved manual and powered material-handling equipment.

· Maintain a clean and organized machine and work area in accordance with 5S standards.

· Follow all machine-specific safety procedures, lockout/tagout requirements, company safety policies, and PPE requirements.

· Assist with other fabrication equipment or departmental responsibilities as assigned based on production needs.

Position Expectations

· Demonstrate strong attention to detail and a commitment to producing accurate, high-quality parts.

· Operate TRUMPF tube laser equipment safely and responsibly while following established operating procedures.

· Monitor machine operation and proactively identify conditions that could impact safety, quality, or productivity.

· Communicate promptly with Team Leads and Supervisors regarding machine issues, material concerns, production delays, or quality issues.

· Demonstrate mechanical aptitude and a willingness to develop knowledge of laser cutting processes, machine functions, and fabrication operations.

· Exhibit a team-oriented mindset and willingness to support other functions within the Fabrication department as needed.

· Work collaboratively to meet or exceed departmental production goals and schedules.

· Maintain regular and reliable attendance in support of operational and production requirements.

· Adhere to all company policies, procedures, safety requirements, and behavioral expectations.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Palmer Hamilton is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Qualifications

· Minimum of 1 year of manufacturing or machine operation experience preferred; experience operating laser cutting, tube processing, CNC, or other fabrication equipment strongly preferred.

· Previous experience with TRUMPF equipment is preferred but not required.

· Ability to read and interpret basic blueprints, job routers, cut lists, and production documentation.

· Proficiency or demonstrated ability to use measuring tools such as calipers, micrometers, tape measures, and gauges.

· Basic understanding of dimensional tolerances and quality inspection requirements.

· Basic shop math skills, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, and decimals.

· Mechanical aptitude with the ability to recognize and assist in troubleshooting basic equipment or production issues.

· Basic computer skills and ability to learn machine controls and manufacturing software.

· Strong attention to detail and ability to follow established work instructions and procedures.

· Effective communication skills and ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

· Ability and willingness to learn TRUMPF tube laser setup, operation, material handling, and basic troubleshooting procedures.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

· Ability to stand, walk, bend, reach, and perform repetitive motions for extended periods of time.

· Ability to lift, push, pull, and/or move up to 50 pounds occasionally and lighter weights frequently.

· Frequent use of hands and arms for handling materials, operating machine controls, measuring parts, and performing machine setup activities.

· Ability to safely handle and maneuver various lengths and sizes of tube and profile materials with appropriate material-handling equipment.

· Ability to visually inspect parts and accurately read measuring instruments, machine displays, and production documentation.

· Exposure to a manufacturing environment, including noise, moving mechanical equipment, metal materials, laser-cutting operations, and varying temperatures.

· Required use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, hearing protection, and safety-toe footwear.

· Must follow all established machine guarding, laser safety, material-handling, and lockout/tagout procedures.