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Laser Operator Jobs in Nebraska (NOW HIRING)

Laser Operator

Beatrice, NE · On-site

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

The Laser Operator works very closely with the Laser Programmer to plan the upcoming jobs for the laser and manage material scrap. The Laser Operator gives feedback to the Programmer on any ...

Laser Operator

Beatrice, NE

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

The Laser Operator works very closely with the Laser Programmer to plan the upcoming jobs for the laser and manage material scrap. The Laser Operator gives feedback to the Programmer on any ...

Laser Operator

Omaha, NE · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Laser Operator | $ 18-2 0 per hour | 2:30 PM - 12:30 AM Monday-Thursday / Temp to Hire What Matters Most * Competitive Pay of $18-20per hour * Schedule: Monday-Thursday 2:30PM-12:20AM * Location:

Laser Operator - Weekend Shift

Beatrice, NE

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

A Laser Operator's primary responsibility is to operate and maintain the laser and the associated equipment is a quality and efficient manner. The Laser Operator works very closely with the Laser ...

Laser Operator

Omaha, NE · On-site

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

Ability to setup and operate CNC laser machine * Knowledge and hands-on operation of CNC laser for metal fabrication including program retrieval, proper gases, proper nozzles, lenses, etc.

New

Laser Operator

Omaha, NE · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Ability to setup and operate CNC laser machine * Knowledge and hands-on operation of CNC laser for metal fabrication including program retrieval, proper gases, proper nozzles, lenses, etc.

New

The Laser Operator works very closely with the Laser Programmer to plan the upcoming jobs for the laser and manage material scrap. The Laser Operator gives feedback to the Programmer on any ...

Ability to setup and operate CNC laser machine * Knowledge and hands-on operation of CNC laser for metal fabrication including program retrieval, proper gases, proper nozzles, lenses, etc.

New

CNC Laser Operator • $20/hour • Temp-to-Hire About This Opportunity We are seeking a skilled CNC Laser Operator to join our manufacturing team. This position is responsible for the setup ...

Laser Operator

Omaha, NE · On-site

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

Ability to setup and operate CNC laser machine * Knowledge and hands-on operation of CNC laser for metal fabrication including program retrieval, proper gases, proper nozzles, lenses, etc.

New

CNC Laser Operator

Lincoln, NE · On-site

$17 - $21.25/hr

Previous experience operating CNC laser cutting machines in a manufacturing environment * Strong understanding of CNC programming, machine setup, and operational adjustments * Ability to read and ...

Laser Operator Second Shift

Omaha, NE · On-site

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

Ability to setup and operate CNC laser machine * Knowledge and hands-on operation of CNC laser for metal fabrication including program retrieval, proper gases, proper nozzles, lenses, etc.

Ability to setup and operate CNC laser machine * Knowledge and hands-on operation of CNC laser for metal fabrication including program retrieval, proper gases, proper nozzles, lenses, etc.

Laser Ablation Operator

Columbus, NE

$18 - $22.75/hr

Operator laser ablation machine. * Take finished orders to QC. * Complete required production documentation. * Good organizational skill in order to keep control of orders. * Ability to concentrate ...

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Laser Operator information

See Nebraska salary details

$12

$18

$26

How much do laser operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for laser operator in Nebraska is $18.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $20.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Laser Operators?

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.

What is the role of a laser operator?

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

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.

How much do laser cutter operators make?

Laser cutter operators typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $50,000 depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators who manage complex equipment or hold certifications may earn higher wages.

Is laser cutting a good career?

Laser operators are responsible for setting up and operating laser cutting machines used in manufacturing and fabrication. The role requires technical skills, attention to safety protocols, and often involves working in a manufacturing environment with regular shifts. It can offer stable employment and opportunities for skill development, especially with experience and certifications in machinery operation.

What is the highest paid machine operator?

The highest paid machine operators are often those working with specialized equipment such as CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines or laser cutting machines, including laser operators. Experienced operators with certifications and advanced skills in programming and maintenance tend to earn higher wages, especially in industries like aerospace, manufacturing, and energy. Salaries can vary based on location, industry, and level of expertise, with top earners making significantly above the average for machine operators.
What are popular job titles related to Laser Operator jobs in Nebraska? For Laser Operator jobs in Nebraska, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Laser Operator jobs in Nebraska look for? The top searched job categories for Laser Operator jobs in Nebraska are:
What cities in Nebraska are hiring for Laser Operator jobs? Cities in Nebraska with the most Laser Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Laser Operator job openings in Nebraska as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,467 per year, or $19 per hour.

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

SUMMARY OF RESPONSIBILITIES
A Laser Operator's primary responsibility is to operate and maintain the laser and the associated equipment is a quality and efficient manner. The Laser Operator works very closely with the Laser Programmer to plan the upcoming jobs for the laser and manage material scrap. The Laser Operator gives feedback to the Programmer on any production issues that are causing scrap or rework.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Safety & Environment: Ensures Equipment is operated in compliance with safety and environmental rules and training. Ensures that materials are stored safely.
  • Quality: Ensures parts are being produced that meet quality requirements. This includes checking holes with pin gauges, checking material thickness with micrometers and checking part dimensions with rulers. The Laser Operator flags quality issues, resolves quality issues immediately when possible, and if not immediately resolvable quarantines the order escalates the issue to the Area Lead or to the Quality Team.
  • Delivery: Runs material in the proper sequence according to the approved schedule. Works with Team Lead and Area Lead to request materials, tools, information or additional resourced when needed to meet schedule requirements.
  • Productivity: Communicates with Team Lead when issues arise that require additional resources to meet production.
  • Responsible that all parts are tagged properly when in their department and when leaving the department
  • Responsible for all jobs being completed and parts claimed in the computer system with time required and any rework or scrap.
  • Responsible for logging hours in the computer system.
  • Stage required job materials

QUALIFICATIONS
The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be substituted for the expected levels of education and experience required.
Education and/or Experience:
  • Six months to one year related experience and/or training.

Communication Skills:
  • Must be able to read, write and comprehend the English language.

Our Culture and Our Beliefs
Kinney Manufacturing strives to keep things simple. Some parts we produce have critical tolerance and very precise applications, but they are still a metal part. Based on this, we always need to keep our activities in perspective. We expect our team members to come to work each day with the expectation of working safely, making good quality parts and being productive. We then want our team members to go home and enjoy their time away from Kinney Manufacturing with their family and friends.
Kinney Manufacturing's commitment is to provide our customers, suppliers and team members with the information and/or materials to accomplish their activities efficiently and without drama. We want to communicate information clearly and only once, and then we all can have the expectation that the work will be completed.
We want to treat everyone that interacts with Kinney Manufacturing fairly and how we would want to be treated in return. Living by this simple concept should make it obvious how to solve problems and help others.
We believe that the key to maintaining and growing a successful business is to answer the phone when people call and deliver product on-time. Quality parts and a competitive price have become a requirement to be in business these days, and it is only with great customer service that our business will thrive.