1

Metal Cutter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Metal Saw Operator-1st Shift

Claremore, OK · On-site

$14.25 - $16.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Description Hadco Metal Trading , a long-stable, widely recognized distributor of semi-finished ... As a Saw Machine Operator, you will be responsible for cutting aluminum, stainless steel ...

Sheet Metal Manufacturing Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$100K - $175K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Define and implement end-to-end sheet metal manufacturing processes, including forming, cutting, and joining operations for complex aerospace components. * Develop and communicate internal shop ...

Sheet Metal Shop Technician

Los Angeles, CA

$30 - $50/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

In this role, you will set up, operate, and maintain advanced sheet metal cutting and forming equipment to produce components that meet rigorous aerospace-quality standards. This is a hands-on, high ...

Showing results 21-40

Metal Cutter information

See salary details

$12

$19

$25

How much do metal cutter jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for metal cutter in the United States is $19.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $25.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by metal cutters, and how can they be managed effectively?

Metal cutters often face challenges such as maintaining precision during repetitive tasks, handling heavy materials safely, and adapting to different types of metal and cutting equipment. To manage these challenges, it's important to follow strict safety protocols, regularly calibrate and maintain tools, and stay updated with training on new machinery or techniques. Collaborating with team members, such as welders and machinists, can also help ensure projects run smoothly and safely.

What is the difference between Metal Cutter vs Welder?

AspectMetal CutterWelder
Primary RoleCutting metal materials to specified sizes and shapesJoining metal parts through welding processes
Required SkillsKnowledge of cutting tools, measurements, safety proceduresWelding techniques, safety, metal preparation
Work EnvironmentFactories, construction sites, fabrication shopsFactories, construction sites, repair shops
CertificationsCutting machine operation, safety certificationsWelding certifications (e.g., AWS)

While both Metal Cutters and Welders work with metal in industrial settings, Metal Cutters focus on shaping and sizing metal pieces through cutting, whereas Welders specialize in joining metal parts via welding techniques. Both roles require safety training and industry-specific certifications, often working side-by-side in manufacturing and construction environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a metal cutter, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Metal Cutter, you need strong mechanical aptitude, precision measurement skills, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with metal cutting machines such as saws, shears, CNC equipment, and safety certifications are commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure high-quality output, workplace safety, and efficient production processes.

What does a metal cutter do?

A Metal Cutter is responsible for cutting, shaping, and finishing metal materials according to specific measurements and designs. They use various tools and machinery, such as saws, lasers, or plasma cutters, to achieve precise cuts on different types of metals. Metal Cutters work in manufacturing, construction, and fabrication industries, often following blueprints or technical drawings. Their work ensures that metal parts and components fit together correctly in the final product.
More about Metal Cutter jobs

What states have the most Metal Cutter jobs?

States with the most job openings for Metal Cutter jobs include:

Infographic showing various Metal Cutter job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,456 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Metal Services Estimator

Industrial Metal Supply Co

Riverside, CA • Remote

$25 - $31/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Industrial Metal Supply rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

258th of 418 rated retail wholesalers


Job description

COMPANY OVERVIEW:

Industrial Metal Supply, founded in 1948, is a leading metals distributor with seven locations serving California and Arizona. We are entering an exciting new growth phase as we strive to further expand our brand awareness while enhancing our customer experience. IMS is committed to safety, quality, reliability, and operational excellence across all areas of the business.

About the Role:

The Laser Cutting Estimator in the metals industry plays a critical role in accurately assessing project requirements and providing detailed cost estimates for laser cutting services. This position involves analyzing technical drawings, material specifications, and production processes to determine the most efficient and cost-effective approach to meet client needs. The estimator collaborates closely with sales, production, and engineering teams to ensure estimates align with operational capabilities and customer expectations. By delivering precise and competitive quotes, the role directly impacts the company’s profitability and customer satisfaction. Ultimately, the Laser Cutting Estimator ensures that projects are bid accurately, enabling smooth project execution and fostering long-term client relationships.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent; associate degree or higher in a related field preferred.
  • Proven experience in estimating within the metals or manufacturing industry, specifically with laser cutting processes.
  • Strong ability to read and interpret technical drawings and blueprints.
  • Proficiency with estimating software and Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Excellent numerical and analytical skills with strong attention to detail.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in engineering, manufacturing technology, or a related discipline.
  • Experience with CAD software and nesting programs used in laser cutting.
  • Familiarity with metals fabrication processes and material properties.
  • Strong communication skills for effective collaboration with cross-functional teams and clients.
  • Knowledge of industry standards and safety regulations related to metal cutting.

Responsibilities:

  • Review and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and specifications to understand project requirements.
  • Calculate material costs, labor, machine time, and overhead to develop comprehensive and competitive estimates.
  • Collaborate with production and engineering teams to assess feasibility and optimize cutting processes.
  • Prepare and present detailed proposals and quotations to clients, addressing any questions or adjustments.
  • Maintain accurate records of estimates, pricing data, and project documentation for future reference.
  • Monitor market trends and material costs to update pricing models and ensure competitiveness.
  • Assist in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance estimating accuracy and efficiency.

Skills:

The required skills enable the estimator to accurately analyze project specifications and translate them into detailed cost estimates, ensuring profitability and client satisfaction. Proficiency in reading technical drawings and using estimating software allows for precise calculation of material and labor costs. Strong analytical and numerical skills support the evaluation of complex data and identification of cost-saving opportunities. Preferred skills such as CAD and nesting software knowledge enhance the ability to optimize cutting layouts and improve efficiency. Effective communication skills facilitate collaboration with internal teams and clients, ensuring clarity and alignment throughout the estimating and project execution process.


LIFE AT IMS

The Company strongly believes that the more diverse our team, the better our work will be. We are committed to equal opportunity employment and celebrate inclusion in all circumstances. As an employee, you can expect:

  • A supportive, inclusive atmosphere on a team that values your contributions.
  • An attractive and competitive compensation package.
  • Opportunities for growth and development via work experience and offerings from our HR/People Resources team and Learning and Development program.
  • Frequent in-office events, lunch and learns, volunteer opportunities, and more.

The Company believes that each team member makes a significant contribution to our success. That contribution should not be limited by the assigned responsibilities outlined in a job description. Therefore, this job description is designed to outline primary duties, qualifications and job scope, but not limit the employee or the organization to just the work identified. It is our expectation that each team member will offer his/her services wherever and whenever necessary to ensure the success of our endeavors and to pursue individual career growth.

Compensation Disclaimer: The salary range listed for this position reflects the potential earning range for the role. Starting compensation is determined based on a variety of factors, including relevant experience, skills, qualifications, education, and internal equity. Not all candidates will be hired at the top of the posted salary range.


Monday- Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Saturdays and OT as needed

What Industrial Metal Supply employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom