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Laser Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

CNC Laser Operator

Crete, IL ยท On-site

$22 - $26/hr

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 ...

CNC Laser Operator

Crete, IL ยท On-site

$22 - $26/hr

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 ...

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 ...

Laser Machine Operator

Addison, IL ยท 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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Tube Laser

Aurora, IL ยท On-site

$17 - $21.50/hr

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 ...

Tube Laser

Aurora, IL ยท On-site

$17 - $21.50/hr

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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Showing results 1-20

Laser Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$13

$20

$28

How much do laser operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 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 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:
Infographic showing various Laser Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,642 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

CNC Laser Operator

Integrity Trade Services

Crete, IL โ€ข On-site

$22 - $26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post hasย expired 1 day ago.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

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 Park, IL

Integrity Trade Services is hiring a CNC Laser Operator for our manufacturing industry client to start immediately at $26.00 per hour. Receive comprehensive benefits through ITS upon hire!

Responsibilities
  • Set up, adjust, and operate CNC Laser machines, specifically Amada CNC Laser
  • Program and run laser operations ensuring precision and efficiency
  • Load, unload, and stage metal materials, lifting up to 50 lbs as needed
  • Perform quality inspections using calipers, micrometers, and tape measures to verify dimensions and tolerances
  • Manage material handling for smooth production flow
Qualifications
  • At least 2 years of CNC Laser operation experience
  • Strong attention to detail for inspecting parts and managing delicate machinery
  • Physical stamina to stand long hours and lift up to 50 lbs
Skills
  • Proficiency in CNC machine setup and programming
  • Experience with calipers, micrometers, and tape measures for dimension verification
  • Excellent attention to detail and ability to manage tolerances
  • Physical ability to perform material handling tasks
Why choose Integrity Trade Services

At Integrity Trade Services, we value our employees by offering a competitive weekly paycheck and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance. Join a reputable company that prioritizes safety, fairness, and career development.

Interested? Click Apply and check your email for follow-up instructions to complete your candidate profile with us.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

Insurance available through Benefits in a Card (BIC).

IL Paid Leave for All Workers

401(k) with company match for eligible employees.

#HIGH1

You should be proficient in:

  • CNC Programming
  • Tape Measure Reading
  • CNC Machine Setup & Changeover

Machines & technologies you'll use:

  • CNC Laser Cutter
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