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Laser Operator Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Laser Operator 2nd shift

Rice Lake, WI ยท On-site

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

Create nests/programs to be run on the laser machines * Identify preventative maintenance points from the operator's manual to include lubrication points, mechanical, pneumatic, optical, electrical ...

Machine Operator

Jackson, WI ยท On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

We have immediate openings for Tube Laser Operators at our Jackson, Wisconsin location. Openings on 2nd shift. Currently, 2nd shift hours are 3:00 p.m. to 1:30 a.m., Monday - Friday. Previous laser ...

1st Shift Laser Operator

Janesville, WI ยท On-site

$15.75 - $20/hr

Over two years' experience operating CO2 or Fiber CNC laser-cutting machines. Cincinnati or Mitsubishi, preferred. * Understanding of flat print drawing * Forklift experience. * Thorough ...

Laser Operator - 2ND SHIFT

Columbus, WI ยท On-site

$20 - $25.25/hr

Set up and operate laser cutting machine Essential Functions: * Set up and operate laser machine for metal cutting * Understand start up and shut down procedures * Operate forklift, pallet jack ...

Laser Operator - 2ND SHIFT

Columbus, WI ยท On-site

$20 - $25.25/hr

Set up and operate laser cutting machine Essential Functions: * Set up and operate laser machine for metal cutting * Understand start up and shut down procedures * Operate forklift, pallet jack ...

Laser Operator - 2ND SHIFT

Columbus, WI ยท On-site

$20 - $25.25/hr

Set up and operate laser cutting machine Essential Functions: * Set up and operate laser machine for metal cutting * Understand start up and shut down procedures * Operate forklift, pallet jack ...

Showing results 41-60

Laser Operator information

See Wisconsin salary details

$13

$20

$27

How much do laser operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for laser operator in Wisconsin is $20.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.21 and $21.83 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 Wisconsin? For Laser Operator jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Laser Operator jobs in Wisconsin look for? The top searched job categories for Laser Operator jobs in Wisconsin are:
What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Laser Operator jobs? Cities in Wisconsin with the most Laser Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Laser Operator job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 3% Contract, and 12% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,781 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Laser Operator 2nd shift

Rice Lake

Rice Lake, WI โ€ข On-site

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Essential Job Functions and Major Tasks:
  • Perform machine start-up, warm-up and shut down operations ensuring that each procedure is correctly followed. Includes cleaning the cutting lens, aligning the nozzle, and doing a focus test
  • Select, measure, assemble, and set machine using precision gauges and instruments
  • Mount, install, align, and secure tools, attachments, fixtures, and work pieces on machine using hand tools and precision measuring instruments
  • Modify technology tables, perform import/call up program from different source; edit, split and store part programs
  • Create nests/programs to be run on the laser machines
  • Identify preventative maintenance points from the operator's manual to include lubrication points, mechanical, pneumatic, optical, electrical and hydraulic components. In addition, remove, disassemble, and reassemble laser cutting head. Inspect and clean cutting lens. Perform nozzle alignment and focus test
  • Determine specifications or procedures for tooling set-up, machine operation, work piece dimensions, or numerical control sequences using blueprints, instructions, and machine knowledge
  • Position and secure work piece on machine bed, indexing table, fixture, or dispensing or holding device
  • Calculate and set machine controls to position tools, synchronize, or regulate cutting depth, speed, and feed
  • Start automatic operation of numerical control machine to machine parts or test setup, work piece dimensions, or programming
  • Monitor machine operation and control panel displays to detect malfunctions and compare readings to specifications
  • Stop machine to remove finished work piece or change tooling, setup, or work piece placement, according to required machining sequence
  • Responsibilities also include the retrieving of raw material and moving finished parts to subsequent work-center(s)
  • Other Duties as assigned

Physical Demands and working Conditions:
  • Constant standing and walking on concrete floor
  • Constant handling and gripping of parts, drill press, overhead crane remote and pallets
  • Frequent use of near vision to inspect parts, read blueprints and other manufacturing documentation
  • Frequent fine finger movements for operating the laser, using a computer, writing and overhead crane remote
  • Frequent use of spatial and form perception while placing parts in their correct locations
  • Frequent lifting and carrying of items under 10 pounds
  • Frequent pushing or pulling of carts and laser doors
  • Frequent reaching below shoulder for parts
  • Frequent 1- or 2-foot action and use of far vision and depth perception while driving forklift
  • Frequent bending/stooping, crouching and twisting while gathering parts or cleaning
  • Occasional lifting and carrying of items 11-50 pounds

Work environment is mainly inside a manufacturing facility that can get can have temperature extremes fluctuating seasonally, occasional need to go outside, continuous manufacturing noise and dust and contains sharp tools, thermal energy and hazardous machines including the laser itself. A pacemaker cannot be near when the laser doors are open, and the laser is in operation. Laser Assistants work in a fast-paced environment independently but with a team to meet deadline Pressures
  • Personal protective equipment required for this position includes safety glasses, composite or steel-toed shoes, gloves, and hard hat (job specific)
  • Please refer to physical demands analysis for additional details

Skills and Abilities
  • Strong blueprint reading skills
  • Strong computer skills
  • Good problem-solving skills
  • Good communication skills
  • Strong attention to detail skills
  • Ability to efficiently read a tape measure
  • No current lifting restrictions prohibiting lifting up to 50 pounds

RLWS is a successful, energetic, customer-driven organization that offers competitive wages, great working conditions, medical, dental, vision, flexible spending, disability, life, 5 weeks PTO, holidays, profit sharing, 401k, and wellness benefit programs.
If you need assistance with your application, please contact Rice Lake Weighing Systems at (800) 472-6703.
Rice Lake Weighing Systems is an Equal Opportunity Employer of Minorities, Females, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities. Rice Lake Weighing Systems is a Substance-Free Workplace and requires pre-employment drug screens.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.