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Laser Programmer Operator Jobs in Eagle, NE (NOW HIRING)

The Laser Operator works very closely with the Laser Programmer to plan the upcoming jobs for the laser and manage material scrap. The Laser Operator gives feedback to the Programmer on any ...

CNC Laser Operator

Lincoln, NE · On-site

$17 - $21.25/hr

Previous experience operating CNC laser cutting machines in a manufacturing environment ... Strong understanding of CNC programming, machine setup, and operational adjustments * Ability to ...

Laser Programmer Operator information

See Eagle, NE salary details

$12

$19

$26

How much do laser programmer operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for laser programmer operator in Eagle, NE is $19.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.54 and $20.96 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.

Laser Operator - Weekend Night Shift

Lincoln, NE

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

SUMMARY OF RESPONSIBILITIES

A Laser Operator's primary responsibility is to operate and maintain the laser and the associated equipment is a quality and efficient manner. The Laser Operator works very closely with the Laser Programmer to plan the upcoming jobs for the laser and manage material scrap. The Laser Operator gives feedback to the Programmer on any production issues that are causing scrap or rework.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Safety & Environment: Ensures Equipment is operated in compliance with safety and environmental rules and training. Ensures that materials are stored safely.
  • Quality: Ensures parts are being produced that meet quality requirements. This includes checking holes with pin gauges, checking material thickness with micrometers and checking part dimensions with rulers. The Laser Operator flags quality issues, resolves quality issues immediately when possible, and if not immediately resolvable quarantines the order escalates the issue to the Area Lead or to the Quality Team.
  • Delivery: Runs material in the proper sequence according to the approved schedule. Works with Team Lead and Area Lead to request materials, tools, information or additional resourced when needed to meet schedule requirements.
  • Productivity: Communicates with Team Lead when issues arise that require additional resources to meet production.
  • Responsible that all parts are tagged properly when in their department and when leaving the department
  • Responsible for all jobs being completed and parts claimed in the computer system with time required and any rework or scrap.
  • Responsible for logging hours in the computer system.
  • Stage required job materials

QUALIFICATIONS

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be substituted for the expected levels of education and experience required.

Education and/or Experience:

  • Six months to one year related experience and/or training.

Communication Skills:

  • Must be able to read, write and comprehend the English language.

Our Culture and Our Beliefs

Kinney Manufacturing strives to keep things simple. Some parts we produce have critical tolerance and very precise applications, but they are still a metal part. Based on this, we always need to keep our activities in perspective. We expect our team members to come to work each day with the expectation of working safely, making good quality parts and being productive. We then want our team members to go home and enjoy their time away from Kinney Manufacturing with their family and friends.
Kinney Manufacturing's commitment is to provide our customers, suppliers and team members with the information and/or materials to accomplish their activities efficiently and without drama. We want to communicate information clearly and only once, and then we all can have the expectation that the work will be completed.
We want to treat everyone that interacts with Kinney Manufacturing fairly and how we would want to be treated in return. Living by this simple concept should make it obvious how to solve problems and help others.
We believe that the key to maintaining and growing a successful business is to answer the phone when people call and deliver product on-time. Quality parts and a competitive price have become a requirement to be in business these days, and it is only with great customer service that our business will thrive.