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Laser Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

... Laser area. Must be able to make minor adjustments when needed while complying with safety ... the A Operator in accordance with the tool set up instructions, engineering drawings and ...

... Laser area. Must be able to make minor adjustments when needed while complying with safety ... the A Operator in accordance with the tool set up instructions, engineering drawings and ...

Press Brake Operator - 2nd Shift

Nevada, IA ยท On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Press Brake Operators at ALMACO work independently with the ability to prioritize work orders and ... Operate the shear and laser cutter. * Set up and operate the press brake. * Maintain press brake:

Machine Operator I

Kanawha, IA ยท On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Successful candidate will be trained on Fabrication Department machines to include Mill, Lathe, Laser, Brake Press, Burnout Table and Saw. Will perform various tasks on these machines or other work ...

Machine Operator I

Kanawha, IA

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Successful candidate will be trained on Fabrication Department machines to include Mill, Lathe, Laser, Brake Press, Burnout Table and Saw. Will perform various tasks on these machines or other work ...

Machine Operator II

Garner, IA ยท On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Successful candidate will be trained on Fabrication Department machines to include Mill, Lathe, Laser, Brake Press, Burnout Table and Saw. Will perform various tasks on these machines or other work ...

Machine Operator II

Garner, IA

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Successful candidate will be trained on Fabrication Department machines to include Mill, Lathe, Laser, Brake Press, Burnout Table and Saw. Will perform various tasks on these machines or other work ...

Showing results 41-60

Laser Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$12

$18

$25

How much do laser operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for laser operator in Iowa is $18.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $20.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a laser operator?

Laser Operators are skilled professionals who operate laser cutting or engraving machines, typically in manufacturing or fabrication environments. They are responsible for setting up and calibrating laser equipment, loading materials, monitoring the cutting or engraving process, and ensuring the finished products meet quality standards. Laser Operators also perform routine maintenance on the machines and follow safety protocols to prevent accidents. Their work is essential in industries such as metalworking, automotive, signage, and electronics.

What is the difference between Laser Operator vs CNC Operator?

AspectLaser OperatorCNC Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job training, or certifications in laser cuttingHigh school diploma, technical training, or certifications in CNC machining
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or fabrication shops using laser cutting machinesManufacturing plants operating CNC machinery
Industry UsageCommon in metal, plastic, and fabric cutting industriesUsed across automotive, aerospace, and general manufacturing

Laser Operators and CNC Operators both work in manufacturing environments, often with similar certifications and skills. While Laser Operators focus on operating laser cutting machines, CNC Operators handle a broader range of computer-controlled machinery. Both roles are essential in precision manufacturing, but Laser Operators specialize in laser technology, whereas CNC Operators work with various CNC equipment.

Is being a laser operator hard?

Laser operators typically work in manufacturing environments, operating and maintaining laser cutting or engraving machines. The job requires attention to detail, technical skills, and safety awareness, but it is generally considered manageable with proper training and experience.

What are some common challenges laser operators face when working with high-precision machinery?

Laser Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining tight tolerances, troubleshooting minor machine malfunctions, and ensuring material alignment for optimal cuts. Staying up-to-date with software updates and understanding different material properties are also crucial to avoid costly errors. Effective communication with team members in quality control and production planning is essential to meet project deadlines and maintain safety standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a laser operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Laser Operator, you need a solid understanding of manufacturing processes, blueprint reading, and machine operation, often with a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with CNC laser cutting machines, CAD/CAM software, and material handling systems is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help you excel in this role. These competencies ensure precise production, machine safety, and efficient workflow in manufacturing environments.

What are popular job titles related to Laser Operator jobs in Iowa?

For Laser Operator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Laser Operator jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Laser Operator jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Laser Operator jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Laser Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Laser Operator job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,880 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Machine Operator Helper

New Leader Manufacturing

Cedar Rapids, IA โ€ข On-site

$17.25 - $19.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

The Machine Operator Helper assists the machine operator with set up, operation, and organization of finished materials for the next production operation. Assist with operations on the Laser, Press Brake, and other machines as needed.

Key Responsibilities

RESULTS

Critical 55%

  • Assists with set-up and operation of production machines; including laser and press brake
  • Safely and efficiently handles materials during operation.
  • Examines completed work to verify conformance to work orders along with all areas of quality and adjusts machinery as necessary to correct any issues.
  • Utilizes a crane to position raw flat sheets of steel onto brake bed or cutting table.

Productivity / Job Knowledge 20%

  • Installs machine change parts to meet new product specifications.
  • Assists with training of others as directed.
  • Keeps work area clean and orderly, performs required PM’s on machines and equipment and reports all non-conformities to Line Lead, Supervisor or Maintenance until the problem has been rectified.

Dependability 15%

  • Demonstrates a good attendance record; is aware of the impact that missing work will have on the customer as well as co-workers.
  • Completes goals/projects on time or ahead of schedule.
  • Responds to work assignments and requests by being cooperative and available.
  • Follows through and meets commitments.
  • Available as a resource to subordinates and/or peers.

Safety 10%

  • Follows safety procedures, protocols, policies, and adheres to all SAFESTART concepts, and acts when others are not holding themselves accountable.

Total 100%

CORE VALUES

Act Like an Owner. 20%

  • Leads by example and takes ownership in everything you do and or say.
  • If you see something, say something and follow through until it's right.
  • Treats others with respect and kindness.

Be Interested. Stay Interested. 20%

  • Isn’t complacent. Seizes opportunities to learn by participating in activities to increase understanding.

Create Change. Start With Yourself. 20%

  • Asks "why", is open-minded, and challenges the status quo.
  • Leads and supports changes for the sake of improvement.

Seek New Perspectives. 20%

  • Seeks new perspectives from all available sources to challenge your own, and brings them into your decision making process.
  • Involves all stakeholders in making decisions. Is open to input from all sources.

Fail Fast. Learn Fast. 20%

  • Considers long and short-term outcomes when making decisions.
  • Is fearless.
  • Readily admits mistakes.

Total 100%

Requirements

Qualifications and Essential Skills:

  • 0-1 years of experience; previous manufacturing experience preferred.
  • Basic computer skills are required; must be able to use computer systems to look-up information, clock-in/clock-out, and report work activities. Experience with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook is preferred.
  • Ability to read tape measure up to 1/32”.
  • ERP experience is a plus.

Physical Requirements:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the essential duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand; up to 8 hours in an 8 hour shift. The employee will frequently lift 50 pounds and occasionally lift up to 100 pounds. The employee will push/pull with up to 110 pounds of force. The employee frequently is required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel; sit, stoop, kneel, crouch, walk, or crawl. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. The employee is frequently required to balance, climb ladders, or work on platforms to access elevated equipment.

Work Environment:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts, fumes or airborne particles, and vibration, and occasionally exposed to risk of electrical shock. Employee may be exposed to hazardous chemicals. Employee is required to wear steel toed shoes, gloves, and safety glasses. The noise level in the plant shop environment is moderately loud. In addition to standard PPE, welders are required to wear a welding helmet and may be required to wear leather clothing and ear plugs. Handles hazardous waste according to company policy and participates in annual hazardous waste training.