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Laser Programmer Operator Jobs in Athens, AL (NOW HIRING)

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Laser Programmer Operator information

See Athens, AL salary details

$12

$19

$26

How much do laser programmer operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for laser programmer operator in Athens, AL is $19.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.49 and $20.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 cities near Athens, AL are hiring for Laser Programmer Operator jobs?

Cities near Athens, AL with the most Laser Programmer Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Laser Programmer Operator job openings in Athens, AL as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,950 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

Machine Operator I (2nd shift) (Madison, Alabama (AL), US, 35756)

Madison, AL

SPX
Electrical Equipment, Appliance, and Component Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Building the people that build the world.
With platforms in HVAC and Detection and Measurement, SPX Technologies build innovative solutions that enable a safer, more efficient, sustainable world. Through our RiSE talent development framework, we Reach, Identify, Strengthen, and Engage our employees to support them in their continued development. We're a global company of problem solvers, collaborators, and innovators, and our businesses build solutions that impact the world.
SPX is a diverse team of unique individuals who all make an impact. We are opening a new campus facility that will have two of our businesses (Marley and Ingenia Technologies) evolving and growing together at SPX's very first campus.
How you will make an Impact (Job Summary)
Reporting into the Fabrication supervisor, as Machine Operator I, you may operate one type of fabricating machine: such as cutoff saws, shears, rolls, brakes, presses, laser, forming machines, spinning machines and punch machines that cut shape and bend metal plates, sheets, tubes, and structures.
What you can expect in this role (Job Responsibilities)
While each day brings new opportunities at SPX, your core responsibilities will be:
Laser machine :
1. Sets-up and operates machine in accordance with established procedures and guidelines
2. Cuts and inspects parts for accuracy, places correct stickers on parts and sorts
3. Correctly interpret blueprints and engineering drawings
4. Safely and effectively use of hand tools, measuring tape, and machinery
Punching/ Brake machine :
1. Interpret blueprints and engineering drawings correctly
2.Sets-up and operates machines in accordance with established procedures and guidelines
3. Safely and effectively use hand tools, measuring tape, and machine equipment
4. Inspects finished products
Other duties include for both type of machine:
  • Load material into machine
  • Interpret mechanical engineered drawings
  • Clean machines and complete preventative maintenance per schedule
  • Complete necessary paperwork
  • Report on supply levels
  • Assist Machine operator II when needed

What we are looking for (Required/Ideal Experience, Skills, Education)
We each bring something to the table, and we are looking for someone who has:
Required Experience & Skills
  • 1 year experience in a manufacturing environment
  • 1 year experience operating fabricating machinery
  • Read a tape measure and ruler and convert fractions to decimals and decimals to fractions

Preferred Experience, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • 1-2 years' experience programming equipment (Laser or brake)
  • Meet all product quality requirements
  • Ability to use precision hand tools
  • Spot welding
  • Attention to detail

The physical demands described below are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Lifting up to 100 pounds; 100+ pounds with assistance
  • Sitting, standing, walking, bending, grasping, pushing, pulling, crawling, climbing, twisting, reaching, working at heights, and using a ladder as required
  • Ability of use both hands overhead
  • Perform repetitive motions
  • Plant environment with potential exposure to all types of weather, including excessive heat, excessive cold, and excessive noise

Education & Certifications
  • High school diploma or GED required

Travel & Working Environment
  • Onsite
  • The employee will be required to stand and walk for at least 8 hours.
  • Regularly be required to push/pull material up to 3000lbs, with assistance of overhead crane.
  • Climb stairs, reach and bend regularly
  • Occasionally sit, grasp, climb, crawl, twist, and work at heights.
  • Occasionally lift, hold and/or move up to 50 pounds
  • Manufacturing environment requires use of required Personal Protective Equipment, such as foot, eye and ear protection when in production locations
  • Potential exposure to bad weather, excessive heat, and/or excessive noise

How we live our culture
Our culture is at the center of what we do and, more importantly, who we are. Our core values set a standard for how we manage ourselves, and our Leadership Model sets the standard for how we engage with each other. Whether you are an individual contributor or you lead a large team, each of us leads at SPX.
What benefits do we offer?
We know that the well-being of our employees is integral. Our benefits include:
  • Generous and flexible paid time off including paid personal time off, caregiver, parental, and volunteer leave
  • Competitive health insurance plans and 401(k) match, with benefits starting day one
  • Competitive and performance-based compensation packages and bonus plans
  • Educational assistance, leadership development programs, and recognition programs

Our commitment to embrace diversity to build a culture of inclusion at SPX
We value different backgrounds, experiences, and voices at SPX, and we are committed to challenging ourselves, openly communicating, and striving to improve every day. We believe in creating an inclusive work environment where everyone has a voice and is encouraged to realize their fullest potential.
SPX is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer committed to making selection decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation or identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected basis.
ABOUT SPX
SPX is a diversified, global supplier of infrastructure equipment with scalable growth platforms in heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC), detection and measurement, and engineered solutions. With operations in 17 countries and approximately $2.2 billion in annual revenue, we offer a wide array of highly engineered products with strong brands.
SPX TOTAL REWARDS
At SPX, what's in it for our employees transcends market-competitive compensation and benefits. Our Total Rewards program also includes opportunities for employees' personal development, career growth, and recognition. These programs focus on alignment and assessment of organizational, team, and individual efforts toward achieving business results. Our development and career growth programs empower our employees to enhance their skills, develop new competencies, and pursue career goals. SPX benefits package provides choices designed to help employees manage their well-being. Our compensation programs are performance-based to recognize and reward employees who work hard, display the values and leadership practices we embrace, and deliver exceptional results.
OUR VALUES
  • Integrity
  • Accountability
  • Excellence
  • Teamwork
  • Results

At SPX, our values are at the heart of everything we do. We use our values every day to help us make the right decisions. We embrace a common purpose and strive for improvement. We respect and value each other as individuals and recognize that only by working together, as a team, can we reach our full potential. We take responsibility for our actions, build strong relationships with each other and our customers, and always act ethically. Our values inspire us to achieve the high standards of quality, safety, and performance that our customers expect and deserve.
WORKING AT SPX
Our work environment is established on a work-life philosophy supported by policies, programs, and practices that help employees achieve success within and outside the workplace. We believe in creating an inclusive work environment where employees strive to realize their fullest potential. We are an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer committed to making selection decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, gender identity, genetic information, age, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected basis.