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Laser Programmer Operator Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

... operating practices. * Track process performance and lead initiatives aimed at continuous ... laser damage. * Proficiency in coating design software and optical simulation tools. * Basic ...

PROCESS ENGINEER

Rochester, NY · On-site

$70K - $92K/yr

... lasers, and turret punches), welding, and mechanical assembly. * With limited supervision and ... Thorough operational knowledge and skills of specific equipment to be operated. * Ability to ...

PROCESS ENGINEER

Rochester, NY · On-site

$70K - $92K/yr

... lasers, and turret punches), welding, and mechanical assembly. * With limited supervision and ... Thorough operational knowledge and skills of specific equipment to be operated. * Ability to ...

New

With interesting opportunities in engineering, marketing, sales, supply chain, operations, HR ... operating by following operating instructions and upkeep; monitoring their calibration status ...

Assembler

West Henrietta, NY · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

We specialize in a full spectrum of products & services including - Design and Engineering, Systems ... Performa fine alignment of optical elements using microscopes, interferometers and laser alignment ...

Showing results 21-36

Laser Programmer Operator information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$13

$19

$27

How much do laser programmer operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for laser programmer operator in Rochester, NY is $19.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $21.35 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 are popular job titles related to Laser Programmer Operator jobs in Rochester, NY?

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

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Laser Programmer Operator jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Laser Programmer Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Laser Programmer Operator job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,842 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Sr Opto-Mechanical Specialist

Rochester, NY • On-site

University of Rochester
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 10K+ employees

$70K - $105K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


University Of Rochester rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 190 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Laboratory for Laser Energetics

Full time

R270323

As a community, the University of Rochester is defined by a deep commitment to Meliora - Ever Better. Embedded in that ideal are the values we share: equity, leadership, integrity, openness, respect, and accountability. Together, we will set the highest standards for how we treat each other to ensure our community is welcoming to all and is a place where all can thrive.

Job Location (Full Address):

250 East River Rd, Rochester, New York, United States of America, 14623

Opening:

Worker Subtype:

Regular

Time Type:

Full time

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

40

Department:

250548 LLE-Laboratory for Laser Energ

Work Shift:

UR - Day (United States of America)

Range:

UR URG 112

Compensation Range:

$70,600.00 - $105,800.00

The referenced pay range represents the minimum and maximum compensation for this job. Individual annual salaries/hourly rates will be set within the job's compensation range, and will be determined by considering factors including, but not limited to, market data, education, experience, qualifications, expertise of the individual, and internal equity considerations.

Responsibilities:

The Laboratory for Laser Energetics (LLE) is a unique national resource located at the University of Rochester. The LLE conducts laser research and promotes education in science and technology. MTW-OPAL is a mid-scale laser system within the laboratory and is looking to hire an Opto-Mechanical Specialist for the new MTW OPAL Target Area. Leads projects, mentors junior staff, and collaborates with multidisciplinary teams to achieve project goals. The successful candidate will be an integral part of the team tasked with designing, building, commissioning and operating the new experimental target area.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Work closely with the MTW-OPAL project team to establish target area requirements
  • Determine realistic milestones and deadlines to support commissioning experiments
  • Collect vendor information and generate budget summaries
  • Work closely with facilities, mechanical engineering, and operations to coordinate the assembly and integration of all new target area equipment
  • Work closely with the Laser Facility Manager and System Engineering to create and manage technical documentation to support the operation of the target area
  • Develop a long-term preventative maintenance plan
  • Work closely with the facility manager to hire and eventually manage additional operators and technicians as the target area comes online
  • Oversee all future target area projects

MINIMUM EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

  • Associates degree and 5 years of relevant experience required
  • Or equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Qualified as a Radiation Worker at time of hire is preferred otherwise must qualify within 12 months of hire under LLE's direction.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

  • Familiarity with laser systems and safety protocols required
  • Strong interpersonal skills working in a team-based environment required
  • Ability to draw on experience to develop a vision for the target area required
  • Self-motivated to develop goals and work towards those goals required
  • High attention to detail required
  • Proven experience with optical, electrical, controls, and vacuum systems required
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills required
  • Ability to work in a cleanroom environment required
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. required

The University of Rochester is committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving an inclusive and welcoming culture to advance the University's Mission to Learn, Discover, Heal, Create – and Make the World Ever Better. In support of our values and those of our society, the University is committed to not discriminating on the basis of age, color, disability, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, military/veteran status, national origin, race, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, citizenship status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law (Protected Characteristics). This commitment extends to non-discrimination in the administration of our policies, admissions, employment, access, and recruitment of candidates, for all persons consistent with our values and based on applicable law.

Notice: If you are a Current Employee, please log into myURHR to search for and apply to jobs using the Jobs Hub. Your application, if submitted using this portal, cannot be moved forward.

Learn. Discover. Heal. Create.

Located in western New York, Rochester is our namesake and our home. One of the world's leading research universities, Rochester has a long tradition of breaking boundaries—always pushing and questioning, learning and unlearning. We transform ideas into enterprises that create value and make the world ever better.

If you're looking for a career in higher education or health care, the University of Rochester may offer the perfect opportunity for your background and goals.

At the University of Rochester, we are committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving an inclusive and welcoming culture and are united by a strong commitment to be ever better—Meliora. It is an ideal that informs our shared mission to ensure all members of our community feel safe, respected, included, and valued.


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