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Laser Programmer Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

IPG Photonics

Senior Software Engineer

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$127K - $168K/yr

IPG's Material Processing Systems Group is focused on integrating state-of-the-art IPG lasers into ... We are seeking a Senior Software Engineer to join the Material Processing Systems Group in the ...

IPG Photonics

Senior Software Engineer

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$110 - $160/hr

IPG's Material Processing Systems Group is focused on integrating state-of-the-art IPG lasers into ... We are seeking a Senior Software Engineer to join the Material Processing Systems Group in the ...

HEICO

PCB/Flex Engineer/Technician

Eagan, MN · On-site

$77K - $100K/yr

Additional desired skills related to PCB manufacturing include laser cutting, lamination, and ... You will have the opportunity to interface with both design engineers and sales/customer service.

Banner Engineering

Mechanical Engineer

Plymouth, MN · On-site

$82K - $116K/hr

With engineers employed in nearly every major department, engineering is in our DNA. Banner is a ... Exposure to advanced assembly techniques, such as automation, SMD, COB, ultrasonic welding, laser ...

Heico

PCB/Flex Engineer/Technician

Eagan, MN · On-site

$77K - $100K/yr

Additional desired skills related to PCB manufacturing include laser cutting, lamination, and ... You will have the opportunity to interface with both design engineers and sales/customer service.

Banner Engineering

Mechanical Engineer

Plymouth, MN · On-site

$82K - $116K/yr

With engineers employed in nearly every major department, engineering is in our DNA. Banner is a ... Exposure to advanced assembly techniques, such as automation, SMD, COB, ultrasonic welding, laser ...

Bystronic

Be Seen First

Field Service Engineer

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$29 - $38/hr

... edge laser cutting, welding and marking systems and subsystems. This position will play an ... Minneapolis-Saint Paul The Field Service Engineer will : · Play a critical role in leading ...

HEICO

PCB/Flex Engineer/Technician

Eagan, MN · On-site

$77K - $100K/yr

Additional desired skills related to PCB manufacturing include laser cutting, lamination, and ... You will have the opportunity to interface with both design engineers and sales/customer service.

Standard Iron

Robotic Weld Engineer

Monticello, MN · On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Primary Job Focus This role is heavily focused on robotic weld programming, weld process ... Program and optimize other CNC equipment (e.g., laser cutters, turret punches, press brakes, tube ...

Standard Iron

Robotic Weld Engineer

Monticello, MN · On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Primary Job Focus This role is heavily focused on robotic weld programming, weld process ... Program and optimize other CNC equipment (e.g., laser cutters, turret punches, press brakes, tube ...

Standard Iron

Robotic Weld Engineer

Sauk Centre, MN · On-site

$18.25 - $25/hr

Primary Job Focus This role is heavily focused on robotic weld programming, weld process ... Program and optimize other CNC equipment (e.g., laser cutters, turret punches, press brakes, tube ...

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All JobsLaser Programmer JobsLaser Programmer Jobs in Minnesota

Laser Programmer information

See Minnesota salary details

$11

$38

$67

How much do laser programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for laser programmer in Minnesota is $38.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.19 and $50.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

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 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.

Is laser cutting a good career?

Laser programmers operate computer-controlled laser cutting machines to shape and cut materials such as metal, plastic, and wood. The role requires technical skills, attention to safety protocols, and knowledge of CAD software, with job prospects often tied to manufacturing and fabrication industries. It can be a stable career with opportunities for skill development and advancement.

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 popular job titles related to Laser Programmer jobs in Minnesota? For Laser Programmer jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Laser Programmer jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Laser Programmer jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Laser Programmer jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Laser Programmer job openings:
Laser Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Laser Programmer job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $80,541 per year, or $38.7 per hour.

Principal Software Engineer- Machine Automation

IPG Photonics

Minneapolis, MN • On-site

$140K - $188K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

IPG Photonics rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

129th of 487 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

IPG's Material Processing Systems Group is focused on integrating state-of-the-art IPG lasers into turn-key systems to be used in the semiconductor, medical and other industries. We are seeking a Principal Software Engineer to join the Material Processing Systems Group in the development of advanced laser-based manufacturing systems. This position serves as a principal technical contributor responsible for designing, implementing, and supporting software solutions for IPG's laser processing equipment.
The successful candidate will leverage extensive experience in industrial automation, machine control, and software engineering to develop new machine capabilities, improve existing platforms, and support customer-driven enhancements. While working within established software architectures, this individual will provide technical leadership, mentor less experienced engineers, and help drive engineering excellence across projects.
In addition to software development responsibilities, the Principal Software Engineer will work closely with manufacturing, applications, service, and project teams to support machine builds, system integration, commissioning activities, and project execution on the production floor. This role requires strong system-level problem-solving skills and the ability to coordinate efforts across software, electrical, mechanical, and applications engineering disciplines.
  • Analyze machine requirements, customer requests, and engineering specifications to develop software solutions for laser-based material processing systems.
  • Design, implement, test, and maintain software features within established machine control architectures.
  • Serve as a technical leader and subject matter expert within assigned projects and areas of responsibility, providing technical guidance and collaborating with other principal engineers to align engineering standards and implementation approaches.
  • Mentor junior and mid-level engineers through design reviews, code reviews, troubleshooting, and technical guidance.
  • Collaborate with electrical, mechanical, controls, and applications engineers to deliver integrated machine solutions.
  • Support machine integration, testing, validation, and commissioning activities during machine builds.
  • Provide technical leadership for assigned projects and coordination during machine build, integration, commissioning, and acceptance activities, ensuring software deliverables are executed according to project objectives and engineering standards.
  • Diagnose and resolve complex system-level issues involving software, motion control, machine vision, communications, and hardware integration.
  • Drive software quality through adherence to coding standards, testing practices, and maintainability guidelines.
  • Evaluate and implement improvements to existing machine architectures, software frameworks, and development processes.
  • Support field service teams and customers in resolving advanced software and machine performance issues.
  • Participate in customer visits and occasional domestic or international travel to support installations and project execution.

Requirements:
  • 15+ years professional software engineering experience.
  • Demonstrated experience leading technical projects and mentoring engineers.
  • BSCE, BSCS, BSEE, or equivalent. MS, a plus.
  • Demonstrated history of solving complex technical challenges in industrial automation, CNC, robotics, or manufacturing systems.
  • Expert proficiency in Microsoft C#/.NET development.
  • Experience developing industrial automation, CNC, robotics, or precision automation equipment software.
  • Strong understanding of multithreaded and distributed systems.
  • Experience integrating motion control systems, machine vision systems, and industrial hardware.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
  • Experience with Application Lifecycle Management (ALM) tools such as Microsoft Azure DevOps and Git
  • Strong understanding of object-oriented design principles and software development best practices.
  • Strong troubleshooting skills at an overall system level (software, electrical and mechanical).
  • Strong professional organization and task priority skills.

Experience Desired (not required):
  • Experience with advanced software testing technologies in .NET
  • Experience using a PC to interface with external sensors and control peripheral devices via vendor SDK, serial or TCP/IP communications.
  • Experience with web services and APIs including ASP.NET, JSON, and RESTful interfaces.
  • Experience developing automated manufacturing equipment, particularly factory-connected systems and Industry 4.0 solutions.
  • Experience with databases (Microsoft SQL Server).
  • Motion control systems (Aerotech A3200, Aerotech Automation 1, ACS).
  • Machine vision (Dalsa/Sapera/Sherlock, Cognex, Matrox).

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