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Laser Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Ryerson Holding Corporation

Laser Operator

Portage, IN · On-site

$16.25 - $20.75/hr

Laser Operator Req Id: 2674 Workplace Type: On-Site Job Shift: 2nd Brand: Central Steel & Wire Job Location: CSW - Portage Laser Center Posting Start Date: 8/6/26 Summary Welcome to Ryerson, where ...

Integrity Trade Services

CNC Laser Operator

University Park, IL · On-site

$26/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

CNC Laser Operator Pay: $26.00/hr Shift : 1st Shift (Monday-Thursday 10 hour days. Hours are 7am-5pm. Fridays are 7 am-11 am which is all overtime. Expect 40-45 hours a week. Location : University ...

W3Global Inc.

CNC Laser Operator

Crete, IL

$20 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are seeking an experienced CNC Laser Operator/Programmer to join our manufacturing team. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience programming, setting up, and operating fiber laser ...

Daifuku

ILUS - Laser Operator

Hobart, IN

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

Operating single or multiple CNC laser cutting machines, including loading raw material and ensuring quality by maintaining focal point adjustment, feed rate, power, and other parameters. * Ensures ...

DEO TEK, Inc

Laser Machine Operator

Addison, IL · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Laser Machine Operator Blue Collar Carpentersville, IL. 60110 2st Shift 1:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. $22.00 - $25.00 per hour Temp to hire Position Summary: We are looking to add a CNC Laser Operator to ...

Daifuku

2nd Shift Laser Operator

Hobart, IN

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

Operating single or multiple CNC laser cutting machines, including loading raw material and ensuring quality by maintaining focal point adjustment, feed rate, power, and other parameters. * Ensures ...

Alro Steel Corp

2nd Shift Laser Operator

Hammond, IN · On-site

$22/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Overview Alro Steel is currently seeking 2nd Shift Laser Operators to join our team in Hammond, IN. Salary Up To $22 an hour Join the Alro team and start building your tomorrow! Whether you are a ...

Alro Steel Corp

2nd Shift Laser Operator

Hammond, IN

$22/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Overview Alro Steel is currently seeking 2nd Shift Laser Operators to join our team in Hammond, IN. Salary Up To $22 an hour Join the Alro team and start building your tomorrow! Whether you are a ...

Alro Steel Corp

2nd Shift Laser Operator

Hammond, IN

$22/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Overview Alro Steel is currently seeking 2nd Shift Laser Operators to join our team in Hammond, IN. Salary Up To $22 an hour Join the Alro team and start building your tomorrow! Whether you are a ...

Peerless Industries

Tube Laser

Aurora, IL · On-site

$17 - $21.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Peerless-AV is seeking a dependable and motivated Tube Laser Operator to join our manufacturing team. In this role, you will operate and monitor our tube laser equipment to produce high-quality parts ...

Peerless Industries

Tube Laser

Aurora, IL

$17 - $21.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Peerless-AV is seeking a dependable and motivated Tube Laser Operator to join our manufacturing team. In this role, you will operate and monitor our tube laser equipment to produce high-quality parts ...

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All JobsLaser Operator JobsLaser Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL

Laser Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$13

$20

$28

How much do laser operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for laser operator in Chicago, IL is $20.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.60 and $22.31 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 Chicago, IL? For Laser Operator jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Laser Operator jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Laser Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Laser Operator jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Laser Operator job openings:
Laser Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Laser Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,676 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

Laser Operator

Ryerson Holding Corporation

Portage, IN • On-site

$16.25 - $20.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Ryerson rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 32 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

128th of 416 rated retail wholesalers

Job description

Laser Operator
Req Id: 2674
Workplace Type: On-Site
Job Shift: 2nd
Brand: Central Steel & Wire
Job Location: CSW - Portage Laser Center
Posting Start Date: 8/6/26
Summary
Welcome to Ryerson, where exceptional career opportunities await. As a leading provider of industrial metal products and services since 1842, we are committed to excellence and best-in-class customer service. Join our team and be a part of a legacy of excellence, where your contributions will be valued, and your development supported. Ryerson offers a dynamic, quality-focused, environment, ideal for advancing your career and making your mark in the metals industry.
As a Line Operator, you will play a key role in the organization's efficient operation ensuring that goals are met surrounding safety, productivity, quality, and on-time delivery providing a great customer experience.
Roles and Responsibilities
  • Sets up and operates various production processing lines, including Temper Mill/Cut to Length Line, Automatic Packaging Line, Plasma Cutter, Laser Cutting Line, and Press Brake Forming Line in a team environment setting
  • Operates manual shear for sample testing
  • Identifies non-conforming materials
  • Performs data entry for processed fulfilled orders
  • Operates Forklifts, Electric Overhead Cranes, and Warehouse Tractor
  • All other duties as assigned or duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice

Requirements
  • Successfully pass a skills-based assessment - evaluates your reading, math, inspections & measurement, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills
  • 3-5 years or more experience in cut-to-length line setting preferred
  • Steel industry background preferred
  • Able to read a tape measure, micrometers, and calipers
  • Overhead crane experience preferred
  • Experience with mobile equipment preferred
  • Physical ability to pass physical requirements exam for vision, hearing, and mobility

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation or preference, and pregnancy), age, national origin, religion, disability or genetic information, marital status, status as a veteran, or any other federal, state or local protected class or artificial barrier.

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