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Laser Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Experience operating and supporting laser cutting equipment in a production environment * Able to read and interpret mechanical drawings/documents Preferred Qualifications * Able to read in G-code ...

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We are seeking an experienced Laser and/or Brake Press Operator for a 1st shift position. Responsibilities include setting up and operating laser cutting and brake press machines, reading and ...

We are seeking an experienced Laser and/or Brake Press Operator for a 2nd shift position. Responsibilities include setting up and operating laser cutting and brake press machines, reading and ...

Laser Tech Esthetician - Knoxville

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

Laser Technician Esthetician Come join a major aesthetic services company in the Medical Spa Industry with locations across the country where we believe confidence is beautiful! We use laser ...

Laser Service Engineer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Laser Service Engineer I conducts cost-effective maintenance on company and customer-owned surgical laser equipment primarily at an office to assure it is functioning properly and meets the ...

Laser Service Engineer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Laser Service Engineer I conducts cost-effective maintenance on company and customer-owned surgical laser equipment primarily at an office to assure it is functioning properly and meets the ...

Machine Operator

Gordonsville, TN · On-site

$15.75 - $18.50/hr

The Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining a variety of metal ... Operate a CNC laser, including loading part files, making necessary machine adjustments, and ...

Machine Operator

Gordonsville, TN · On-site

$15.75 - $18.50/hr

The Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining a variety of metal ... Operate a CNC laser, including loading part files, making necessary machine adjustments, and ...

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CNC Machine Operator

Lexington, TN · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Aerotek is hiring CNC Operators for a manufacturing company located in Lexington, TN. These ... Operate CNC fabrication equipment, including press brakes, lasers, and related cutting and bending ...

Showing results 21-40

Laser Operator information

See Tennessee salary details

$11

$18

$24

How much do laser operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for laser operator in Tennessee is $18.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.48 and $19.62 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 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 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 popular job titles related to Laser Operator jobs in Tennessee?

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

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Laser Operator jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Laser Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Laser Operator job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,570 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

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Posted 2 days ago

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Job description

Position Summary
The Laser Technician is responsible for the operation of the facility's Mitsubishi laser cutting system. This salaried role is responsible for equipment reliability, programming, process optimization, and continuous improvement across laser cutting technologies. This is an onsite, hands-on position. This position requires a highly self-directed technician who can balance day-to-day operational excellence with long-term process improvement and technology development.
Key Responsibilities:
Laser Operations
  • Own overall performance, reliability, and optimization of the Mitsubishi laser cutting system
  • Program, set up, and optimize laser cutting operations using G-code and M-code
  • Troubleshoot and resolve mechanical, electrical, and process-related laser issues
  • Monitor and improve cut quality, scrap, uptime, and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE)
  • Develop and refine cutting processes for a variety of materials and thicknesses
  • Maintain accurate documentation for programs, machine settings, and known issues
  • Coordinate with maintenance, engineering, and OEM support to resolve complex issues

Required Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent
  • Minimum of 1+ year(s) of experience as a Laser Technician or higher
  • Experience operating and supporting laser cutting equipment in a production environment
  • Able to read and interpret mechanical drawings/documents

Preferred Qualifications
  • Able to read in G-code and M-code languages
  • Experience with automated systems, using knowledge of microprocessors, programmable controllers, electronics, circuit analysis, sensor or feedback systems, etc.

Professional Expectations
  • Operates with a high level of independence and ownership
  • Proactively identifies improvement opportunities when equipment is running well
  • Demonstrates discipline in documentation, process control, and follow-through
  • Strong problem-solving and root-cause analysis capability
  • Collaborates effectively with engineering, maintenance, and production teams
  • Willingness to support urgent issues as needed to ensure critical equipment uptime