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Laser Programmer Operator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Laser and CNC Punching Machine Programmer Why Great Northern Privately held, Great Northern Instore, a division of Great Northern Corporation, is a Multi-Million Dollar, Designer, Engineering, and ...

Laser

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$23.65 - $24.70/hr

Lippert is a leading, global manufacturer and supplier of highly engineered products and customized ... Summary/Objective The laser operator assumes a processing role in the production of finished parts ...

Laser

Chicago, IL

$23.65 - $24.70/hr

Lippert is a leading, global manufacturer and supplier of highly engineered products and customized ... Summary/Objective The laser operator assumes a processing role in the production of finished parts ...

Laser

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$20 - $21.50/hr

Lippert is a leading, global manufacturer and supplier of highly engineered products and customized ... Summary/Objective The laser operator assumes a processing role in the production of finished parts ...

Fabrication Engineer

Mundelein, IL ยท On-site

$65K/yr

CNC Programming: Program CNC turret presses, precision lasers, and press brake machinery to ... Self-managing professional capable of operating efficiently with minimal supervision. * Team ...

... Turret/Laser Operator to program, set up, and operate an Amada AE2510NT punch press and related metal fabrication equipment. The ideal candidate will have strong CNC programming and machine setup ...

Welder, MIG and Laser

Cary, IL ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

... operating costs. Join us as we continue to provide solutions to our customers and the world! The ... Read and interpret moderately complex engineering drawings * Conduct in-process inspections and ...

Showing results 21-40

Laser Programmer Operator information

What is a laser programmer operator?

A Laser Programmer Operator is a skilled technician who programs and operates laser cutting machines to cut, engrave, or mark materials such as metal, plastic, or wood. They use specialized software to create or modify designs, set up the machine parameters, and monitor the cutting process to ensure accuracy and quality. Laser Programmer Operators are responsible for maintaining equipment, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring safety standards are met in the workplace.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a laser programmer operator?

To thrive as a Laser Programmer Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, blueprint reading skills, and experience with CNC machinery, typically supported by vocational training or relevant certifications. Familiarity with CAD/CAM software, laser cutting systems, and quality measurement tools is essential for programming and operating equipment efficiently. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication help ensure precision and safe workplace collaboration. These skills are crucial for maintaining production quality, minimizing errors, and optimizing manufacturing workflows.

What are some typical challenges faced by laser programmer operators, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Laser Programmer Operators often encounter challenges such as interpreting complex technical drawings, ensuring precise machine calibration, and troubleshooting equipment errors. Successfully managing these tasks requires strong attention to detail, familiarity with CAD/CAM software, and a proactive approach to machine maintenance. Collaborating closely with engineers and production teams can help clarify design requirements and streamline production, while ongoing training keeps operators updated on new technologies and best practices.

What is the difference between Laser Programmer Operator vs CNC Machinist?

AspectLaser Programmer OperatorCNC Machinist
CredentialsTypically requires technical training or certification in laser technologyRequires technical training, certifications, or machining experience
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or fabrication shops with laser cutting equipmentMachine shops, manufacturing plants, or fabrication facilities
Industry UsageCommonly used in sheet metal, aerospace, signage, and automotive industriesUsed across various manufacturing sectors including aerospace, automotive, and industrial parts
Job FocusProgramming laser cutting machines for precise cuts and designsSetting up, operating, and maintaining CNC machines for machining parts

While both roles involve working with computer-controlled equipment, Laser Programmer Operators focus on programming laser cutting machines for precise fabrication, whereas CNC Machinists operate a broader range of CNC machines for manufacturing parts. Both require technical skills and familiarity with manufacturing environments, but their specific tasks and equipment differ.

What are popular job titles related to Laser Programmer Operator jobs in Illinois?

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

What job categories do people searching Laser Programmer Operator jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Laser Programmer Operator jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Laser Programmer Operator jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Laser Programmer Operator job openings:

Automated Welding Operator (CNC / Laser)

Lombard, IL โ€ข On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Automated Welding Operator (CNC / Laser)
Position Details
Department: Engineering / Operations
Location: Lombard, IL (with domestic and international travel as needed)
Employment Type: Full-Time
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt (Hourly)
Pay Range: $30.00 to $35.00 per hour, commensurate with experience, plus overtime eligibility
About pro beam USA
pro beam USA Inc. is the North American subsidiary of pro beam Group, a global technology leader in electron beam (EB) welding, drilling, and additive manufacturing systems. Headquartered in Lombard, Illinois, we serve customers in the aerospace, defense, automotive, and energy sectors, delivering precision joining solutions that meet the most demanding engineering standards in the world.
Why Join Us?
  • No Prior EB Experience Required: We will train the right candidate from the ground up on our specialized systems.
  • Global Career Development: Includes a structured training pathway with potential development opportunities at pro beam facilities in Germany.
  • Cutting-Edge Technology: Access world-class electron beam technology while working alongside a technically sophisticated international team.
  • Excellent Total Rewards: Competitive hourly pay, overtime opportunities, comprehensive medical/dental/vision coverage, and paid time off compliant with the Illinois Paid Leave Act.
  • Impact: Enjoy a collaborative, small-team environment with direct visibility to leadership and meaningful technical impact.

Position Summary
The Automated Welding Operator operates and programs automated welding equipment at pro beam USA, with a primary focus on electron beam (EB) welding systems. This is a hands-on, shop-floor role for someone who enjoys working directly with advanced machinery, learning new technology, and producing high-quality welds for customers in high-stakes industries. If you have operated any kind of automated welding equipment or precision CNC machinery, and you are mechanically curious and eager to grow, we want to hear from you.
Key Responsibilities
Machine Operation
  • Equipment Operation: Set up, operate, and monitor electron beam welding systems and other automated welding equipment in our job shop.
  • Quality Execution: Follow established weld procedures, parameter sheets, and work instructions to produce consistent, high-quality welds.
  • Part Inspections: Perform pre- and post-weld inspections including visual checks and basic dimensional verification.
  • Shop Upkeep: Support equipment calibration, routine maintenance, and regular housekeeping of the welding area.

Process Support
  • Parameter Engineering: Assist senior technical staff in developing and refining welding parameters for new customer parts and materials.
  • Issue Resolution: Identify and report process deviations, equipment issues, or weld quality concerns to the technical team.
  • Troubleshooting: Participate in troubleshooting activities and contribute observations from hands-on machine operation.
  • Trials & Testing: Support process trials and sample production for new customer programs and feasibility studies.

Customer & Field Support
  • Professional Representation: Represent pro beam USA professionally when interacting with customers on-site or during facility visits.
  • Demonstrations: Support customer demonstrations and witness testing as required.
  • Field Commissioning: Assist the field service team with equipment commissioning and customer training as the role develops.

Documentation
  • Data Logs: Complete production records, traveler documents, and quality logs accurately and on time.
  • Compliance Standards: Follow all documentation requirements associated with aerospace and defense customer programs.
  • Audit Readiness: Contribute to maintaining an organized, compliant, and audit-ready work environment.

Required Qualifications
  • Education: High school diploma or equivalent. (An Associate's degree, vocational/trade certification, or technical coursework is a plus).
  • Experience: Minimum 2 years of hands-on experience operating automated or CNC-controlled machinery in a production environment.
  • Technical Background: Hands-on experience with one or more of the following technologies:
    • Electron beam (EB) welding
    • Laser beam welding (LBW) or automated industrial laser cutting
    • Plasma arc welding (PAW)
    • Friction stir welding (FSW)
    • TIG/MIG setups in an automated or semi-automated environment
    • Advanced CNC machinery (Mills, Lathes, Routers)
  • Blueprints: Ability to read and follow weld procedures, technical drawings, and work instructions.
  • Aptitude: Strong mechanical aptitude and comfort working with precision equipment in a shop environment.
  • Reliability: Detail-oriented and safety-conscious with a track record of consistent attendance.
  • Legal: Authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship (required for defense program access).

Preferred Qualifications
  • Direct experience operating electron beam welding systems (such as PTR, Sciaky, pro beam, or similar platforms).
  • Familiarity with vacuum systems or high-voltage equipment.
  • AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) or similar welding certification.
  • Experience working in an aerospace, defense, or NADCAP-accredited manufacturing environment.
  • Exposure to weld quality inspection methods including visual, dye penetrant, or X-ray.
  • Basic CNC or machine programming experience (G-code understanding).
  • Experience with quality documentation in an AS9100 or ISO 9001 environment.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements
  • Work is performed in a laboratory, machine shop, and light industrial environment. Appropriate PPE is required and provided.
  • Exposure to high-voltage equipment, vacuum systems, and industrial lasers (comprehensive safety training is provided).
  • Occasional travel required (domestic and potentially international) for customer site visits, equipment commissioning, or technical training.
  • Must be able to lift up to 35 lbs and stand for extended periods during equipment operation.