ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Laser Programmer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Chemtech Plastics, Inc.

CNC Programmer

Elgin, IL · On-site

$40 - $42/hr

CNC Programmer 1st shift E-Verify Location: Elgin, IL | On-Site Job Summary: Tool Maker experience ... Execute complex repairs, including welding (laser/TIG), spotting, reworking, and modifying existing ...

Spirax-Sarco Engineering

Welder, MIG and Laser

Cary, IL · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Welder, MIG and Laser Composed of Chromalox, Durex Industries, Vulcanic, and Thermocoax businesses ... Read and interpret moderately complex engineering drawings * Conduct in-process inspections and ...

Booz Allen Hamilton

Optical Engineer

Virginia, IL · On-site

$78 - $176/hr

R0246988Optical Engineer**The Opportunity:**What if you could use your engineering skills to ... Experience in laser systems, including gain media, pump sources, thermal management and control ...

Gestamp

Assembly Engineer

Mason, IL

Assembly Engineer Job Summary The Process Engineer is responsible for leading troubleshooting ... Lead troubleshooting and repair efforts on assembly and laser equipment. * Diagnose and resolve ...

Gestamp

Assembly Engineer

Mason, IL · On-site

Assembly Engineer Job Summary The Process Engineer is responsible for leading troubleshooting ... Lead troubleshooting and repair efforts on assembly and laser equipment. * Diagnose and resolve ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsLaser Programmer JobsLaser Programmer Jobs in Illinois

Laser Programmer information

See Illinois salary details

$11

$38

$66

How much do laser programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for laser programmer in Illinois is $38.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.90 and $49.86 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a laser programmer?

A Laser Programmer is a skilled professional who creates, modifies, and manages programs that control laser cutting machines, typically in manufacturing or fabrication environments. They use specialized software to convert technical drawings or CAD files into machine instructions, optimizing cutting paths for efficiency and quality. Laser Programmers are also responsible for troubleshooting programming errors and ensuring that the laser equipment operates safely and effectively.

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

To thrive as a Laser Programmer, you need a solid background in CNC programming, blueprint reading, and metal fabrication, often supported by technical training or certification in manufacturing technology. Familiarity with CAD/CAM software, laser cutting machines, and machine-specific programming languages is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are important soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities ensure precise and efficient production processes, minimizing errors and optimizing output in a manufacturing environment.

What are some common challenges faced by laser programmers when coordinating with production teams?

Laser Programmers often need to balance precision programming with rapidly changing production schedules and material availability. A common challenge is ensuring that their CNC code is optimized for efficiency while accommodating last-minute design changes or urgent orders from the production team. Effective communication and a collaborative approach are key, as Laser Programmers frequently work closely with engineers, machine operators, and quality control to minimize downtime and ensure high-quality output.

What is the difference between Laser Programmer vs CNC Operator?

AspectLaser ProgrammerCNC Operator
CredentialsTypically requires technical training or certification in laser technologyRequires CNC machining training or certification
Work EnvironmentWorks in manufacturing or fabrication shops with laser cutting equipmentOperates CNC machines in manufacturing settings
Industry UsageCommon in aerospace, automotive, signage, and metal fabricationWidely used across manufacturing, aerospace, and automotive industries
Job FocusProgramming laser cutting paths and settingsSetting up, operating, and monitoring CNC machines

While both roles involve machining and manufacturing, Laser Programmers focus on creating precise laser cutting programs, whereas CNC Operators handle the operation of CNC machinery. Both roles require technical skills and are essential in modern manufacturing environments.

How much do laser programmers make?

Laser programmers typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled programmers with certifications and proficiency in CAD/CAM software may earn higher salaries, especially in manufacturing or aerospace sectors.

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

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

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

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

Laser Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Laser Programmer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $79,687 per year, or $38.3 per hour.

Production Machine Operator/Laser Operator 2nd Shift

Martin Engineering

Geneseo, IL • On-site

$18 - $29/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Operate the industrial laser and other equipment such as CNC bandsaw, CNC pressbrake, and related machinery to produce quality parts according to specifications.

  • Load programs, material, and tooling, troubleshoot machine issues, and perform machine setup and adjustments to ensure production standards are met.

  • Inspect parts using precision measuring tools to verify they meet ISO 9001 standards and specifications.

Job description

Celebrating our 82nd year, Martin Engineering is a privately owned global manufacturing company located in Neponset, IL.  A worldwide leader in the Bulk Materials Handling Industry, we believe it is our people who are responsible for our SUCCESS.  Our culture is unique; we want our employees to arrive to work happy and leave for the day feeling that same way.  We are united; we know we are better together.  We strive to deliver superior service to all of our customers, both internal and external.  If you share our values, please continue reading to find out what we are looking for in a Laser Operator at our Neponset, IL facility.

Job Summary:

The Laser Operator will primarily focus on operating the industrial laser but would be trained to operate other equipment such as the horizontal CNC bandsaw, and CNC pressbrake, and others, as required, to print specifications within tolerances allowed for producing quality parts. This role inspects parts with precision measuring tools to ensure the parts are within ISO 9001 specifications and standards. 

Responsibilities & Duties:

  • Operates machines so that Martin tools and products are produced according to established quality standards and timelines.
  • Load programs, material, and tooling and troubleshoot machine issues and settings as required.
  • Saw materials to various sizes so that they can be welded, formed, machined, etc. by other employees and/or departments.
  • Calculates necessary machine adjustments and material usage.
  • Reads and interprets blueprints, drawings and bills of materials to produce the required parts.
  • Operate overhead 5 ton bay crane.
  • Performs setup and operation of machines (e.g., laser, saws, shears, tapping machine, press brake, deburring equipment, etc.) through the use of precision measurement tooling according to ISO 9001 standards.
  • Maintains work area and equipment in a clean and orderly condition and follows prescribed safety regulations particular to the working conditions.

Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent.

  • One or more years experience with machines or machine drawing.

  • Experience with blueprint reading and precision instruments.

Benefits & Perks:

If our culture hasn't convinced you that Martin Engineering is the place you want to be, check out a few of our benefits!

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Prescription
  • Flexible Spending
  • Dependent Care Reimbursement
  • Company Paid Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Short-term & Long-term Disability
  • 401k - with less than 30-day enrollment, no vesting schedule, & generous company match!
  • Onsite Medical Clinic free of charge to employees & dependents enrolled in our healthcare plan.
  • Cafe'
  • Fitness Center
  • Generous vacation package
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Martin Annual Rewards Program (bonus opportunity)
  • Casual dress policy

To learn more about who we are, check us out at www.martin-eng.com

Powered by JazzHR

BwfWDfAbJT