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Laser Operator Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Custom Patch Hats

Heat Press and Laser Operator

Raleigh, NC

$18.50 - $21.50/hr

Heat Press and Laser Operator Department: Production Classification: Non-exempt Reports to: Fabrication Lead Supervises: No Work Location: Warehouse - Raleigh, NC Job Summary: The Heat Press and ...

Morris Associates

Laser Operator - 2nd Shift

Garner, NC · On-site

$15.75 - $20/hr

Laser Machine Operator - 2nd Shift (Mon-Thurs 5P-3:30AM - Friday OT as needed) Location: Garner, NC Company: Morris and Associates Employment Type: Full-Time Salary: Competitive Salary + Benefits ...

Morris Associates

Laser Operator - 2nd Shift

Garner, NC · On-site

$15.75 - $20/hr

Laser Machine Operator - 2nd Shift (Mon-Thurs 5P-3:30AM - Friday OT as needed) Location: Garner, NC Company: Morris and Associates Employment Type: Full-Time Salary: Competitive Salary + Benefits ...

Morris & Associates

Laser Operator - 2nd Shift

Garner, NC · On-site

$15.75 - $20/hr

Laser Machine Operator - 2nd Shift (Mon-Thurs 5P-3:30AM - Friday OT as needed) Location: Garner, NC Company: Morris and Associates Employment Type: Full-Time Salary: Competitive Salary + Benefits ...

MGM Products

2nd shift Laser Operator NC

Henderson, NC · On-site

$16.50 - $21/hr

Based On ExperienceBenefits Offered: 401K, Dental, Life, Medical, Vision, PTO and Holiday PayShift: 2nd shift Monday - Friday 3:30 PM to 12:00 AM As a Manufacturing Laser Operator at MGM Products Inc ...

MGM Products

2nd shift Laser Operator NC

Henderson, NC · On-site

$16.50 - $21/hr

Based On Experience Benefits Offered: 401K, Dental, Life, Medical, Vision, PTO and Holiday Pay Shift: 2nd shift Monday - Friday 3:30 PM to 12:00 AM As a Manufacturing Laser Operator at MGM Products ...

The Steel Network

Machine Operator

Durham, NC · On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

... lasers, welding, and more. This is a full-time position on the Roll Forming team. The operator ... primary responsibility is to set up and operate the roll forming machines to produce light framing ...

The Steel Network

Machine Operator

Durham, NC · On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

... lasers, welding, and more. This is a full-time position on the Roll Forming team. The operator ... primary responsibility is to set up and operate the roll forming machines to produce light framing ...

Cardinal Civil Contracting

Operator - 1

Raleigh, NC · On-site

Familiarity with GPS and laser grading technology is a plus. * Strong understanding of safety ... A valid CDL or heavy equipment operator certification is preferred. Work Environment & Schedule:

Cardinal Civil Contracting

Operator - 5

Raleigh, NC · On-site

Familiarity with GPS and laser grading technology is a plus. * Strong understanding of safety ... A valid CDL or heavy equipment operator certification is preferred. Work Environment & Schedule:

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All JobsLaser Operator JobsLaser Operator Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Laser Operator information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$11

$17

$24

How much do laser operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for laser operator in Raleigh, NC is $17.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $19.28 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.

How to become a laser operator?

To become a laser operator, typically you need a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant training in operating laser cutting or engraving machines. Many employers provide on-the-job training, and obtaining certifications in laser safety or equipment operation can improve job prospects. Familiarity with computer-aided design (CAD) software and attention to safety protocols are also important.

Is being a laser operator hard?

Laser operators are responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining laser cutting or engraving machines, which requires attention to detail and technical skills. The job can involve working with complex equipment, following safety protocols, and sometimes working in shifts, but it generally depends on the individual's experience and the complexity of the tasks involved.

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 and knowledge of machine controls and materials.

What job categories do people searching Laser Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Laser Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Laser Operator jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Laser Operator job openings:

Laser Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Laser Operator job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,898 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Heat Press and Laser Operator

Custom Patch Hats LLC

Raleigh, NC • On-site

$18.50 - $21.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Heat Press and Laser Operator
Department: Production
Classification: Non-exempt
Reports to: Fabrication Lead
Supervises: No
Work Location: Warehouse - Raleigh, NC
Job Summary:
The Heat Press and Laser Operator is responsible for the daily setup, operation, and maintenance of heat press machines and Boss laser cutting machines using LightBurn software. This role ensures consistent product quality and supports production efficiency through material staging, housekeeping, routine equipment maintenance, and inventory monitoring.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Operate heat press machines to apply patches or transfers with precision and consistency.
  • Monitor temperature, pressure, and time to ensure proper application standards are met.
  • Perform startup and shutdown procedures for laser equipment daily.
  • Stage leather materials according to the production queue.
  • Prepare and run sample proofs for orders as needed, maintaining consistency with CPH quality standards.
  • Maintain and update LightBurn software per manufacturer guidelines.
  • Conduct basic maintenance and cleaning of equipment following company and manufacturer recommendations.
  • Perform machine alignment and optical cleaning to ensure optimal laser performance.
  • Monitor inventory levels and notify the manager when supplies need to be replenished.
  • Assist with other duties as assigned by the Lead, Supervisor, or Management.
Physical Demands:
  • Lift, carry, push, and/or pull up to 50 lbs frequently.
  • Frequent bending, stooping, squatting, kneeling, crawling, twisting, and overhead reaching.
  • Ability to stand, walk, and/or sit for up to 8 hours per day.

Requirements
Required Education and Experience:
  • Minimum of one (1) year of manufacturing experience.
  • At least one (1) year of experience operating laser machinery.
  • Training in general safety, electrostatic discharge (ESD) awareness, foreign object damage (FOD) prevention, and quality systems is required.

Schedule: The hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 8:30 am until 5:30 pm.

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