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Plasma Cutter Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

AtWork Personnel Services

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Welder - Multiple Shifts Available

Rancho Cordova, CA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Welder - MIG/TIG Weld Operator (Production Welding & Fabrication) Location: Mather / Kilgore ... Cut, shape, and prepare materials using oxy-acetylene torches and plasma cutting equipment * Read ...

The Industrial Connection Agency

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Laser/Waterjet Technician

Corona, CA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Proven experience operating laser cutting machines or similar equipment. * Familiarity with lathe operation, plasma cutting, and tooling techniques. * Proficient in basic math skills for measurements ...

X SERIES USA

Field Service Technician

Murrieta, CA

$55K - $95K/yr

This includes laser cutting systems, press brakes, robotic systems, plasma cutting systems, drills ... Training new customers and operators on equipment operation and procedures * Maintaining, repairing ...

Anduril Industries

Sheet Metal Fabricator

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $26.25/hr

Experience operating shears, press brakes, rolls, and standard sheet metal shop equipment * Experience with material cutting: plasma, shears, or hand methods * Ability to fit and install fabricated ...

Vantedge

Weld Operator I Temporary

Rancho Cordova, CA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Use plasma torch to cut material as needed. * Read and understand blue prints. * Joins, fabricates ... Demonstrates through testing, ability to accurately perform carbon air arc cutting. * Develop and ...

Anduril Industries

Sheet Metal Fabricator

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $26.25/hr

Experience operating shears, press brakes, rolls, and standard sheet metal shop equipment * Experience with material cutting: plasma, shears, or hand methods * Ability to fit and install fabricated ...

JENSEN INFRASTRUCTURE

Welder

Ontario, CA

$20 - $25/hr

Fabricating metal parts and assemblies by cutting, burning, and welding various metals using welding machines, oxyacetylene torches, plasma cutters, and hand and power tools. * Operating cranes ...

JENSEN ENTERPRISES INC

Welder

CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Fabricating metal parts and assemblies by cutting, burning, and welding various metals using welding machines, oxyacetylene torches, plasma cutters, and hand and power tools. * Operating cranes ...

Hilmar Cheese Company, Inc.

Maintenance Mechanic

Hilmar, CA · On-site

$26.75 - $34.25/hr

Use plasma cutter for various projects * Timely analysis and repair of all breakdowns in plants ... Demonstrate a high level of communication, cooperation and teamwork with production operators to ...

Hilmar Cheese Company

Maintenance Mechanic

Hilmar, CA · On-site

$26.75 - $34.25/hr

Use plasma cutter for various projects * Timely analysis and repair of all breakdowns in plants ... Demonstrate a high level of communication, cooperation and teamwork with production operators to ...

ACE

Shop Welder / Fabricator

Paso Robles, CA · On-site

$41K - $70K/yr

Utilize a range of fabrication tools including welders, plasma cutters, torches, shears, punches ... Experience operating forklifts and overhead cranes. * Familiarity with both MIG and TIG welding ...

ACE

Shop Welder / Fabricator

Paso Robles, CA · On-site

$41K - $70K/yr

Utilize a range of fabrication tools including welders, plasma cutters, torches, shears, punches ... Experience operating forklifts and overhead cranes. * Familiarity with both MIG and TIG welding ...

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Plasma Cutter Operator information

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$27

How much do plasma cutter operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for plasma cutter operator in California is $20.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $22.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a plasma cutter operator do?

A Plasma Cutter Operator is responsible for cutting and shaping metal materials using a plasma cutting machine. They interpret blueprints or technical drawings, set up and operate the plasma cutter, and ensure precision in the cuts according to specifications. Operators also inspect finished pieces for quality, maintain equipment, and follow safety protocols to prevent accidents. This role is common in manufacturing, construction, and metal fabrication industries.

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

To thrive as a Plasma Cutter Operator, you need a solid understanding of metal fabrication, blueprint reading, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or vocational training. Familiarity with CNC plasma cutting machines, CAD software, and basic maintenance tools is essential. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring precision, safety, and efficiency in producing high-quality metal components.

What are some common challenges faced by plasma cutter operators, and how can they be addressed?

Plasma Cutter Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining precision while working with various metal thicknesses and dealing with equipment wear or malfunctions. To address these, operators should regularly inspect and calibrate their machines, follow proper safety protocols, and stay updated on new cutting techniques. Collaborating closely with fabrication teams and supervisors also helps in troubleshooting issues quickly and ensuring high-quality output. Continuous training and attention to detail are key for success in this role.

What is the difference between Plasma Cutter Operator vs Welder?

AspectPlasma Cutter OperatorWelder
Required CertificationsOSHA safety training, possibly certified in plasma cuttingWelding certifications (e.g., AWS, CWI)
Work EnvironmentFabrication shops, construction sites, industrial settingsFabrication shops, construction sites, industrial settings
Industry UsageMetal fabrication, demolition, shipbuildingMetal fabrication, construction, manufacturing
Job FocusCutting metal with plasma torchJoining metal pieces through welding

Both Plasma Cutter Operators and Welders work in metal fabrication environments and may share similar certifications. However, Plasma Cutter Operators specialize in cutting metals precisely with plasma torches, while Welders focus on joining metals through welding techniques. Understanding these differences helps employers and job seekers find the right role in industrial settings.

How much does a plasma cutter operator make?

A plasma cutter operator typically earns between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in industrial settings may earn higher wages and additional benefits.
Plasma Cutter Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plasma Cutter Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,191 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

Welder - Multiple Shifts Available

AtWork Personnel Services

Rancho Cordova, CA • On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

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Job description

Welder – MIG/TIG Weld Operator (Production Welding & Fabrication)

Location: Mather / Kilgore Industrial Area, Rancho Cordova, CA 95742
Pay: $22.00–$24.00 per hour
Shifts:

Swing Shifts Available 4 Days x 10 Hour Shifts Monday - Thursday (2:30pm to 1:10am)

Day Shifts Available Monday - Friday (6AM - 2:40PM)

Job Summary

We are seeking a skilled Welder / Weld Operator to perform MIG welding and TIG welding on a variety of materials, gauges, and weld positions in a production manufacturing environment. This role is ideal for candidates with hands-on metal fabrication, welding, and assembly experience who take pride in producing high-quality, precision welds that meet engineering specifications.

Key Responsibilities

  • Perform MIG and TIG welding on customer parts and assemblies to specification
  • Select appropriate gas, wire, and welding settings for each application
  • Cut, shape, and prepare materials using oxy-acetylene torches and plasma cutting equipment
  • Read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and technical drawings
  • Fabricate, assemble, join, and repair metal components
  • Perform groove, fillet, lap, butt, and full-penetration welds
  • Complete multi-pass welds and stack welds as required
  • Weld holes and gaps up to 2 inches deep
  • Build basic fixtures and straighten welded assemblies
  • Inspect welds, tools, and equipment for quality, defects, and wear
  • Perform carbon air arc cutting (training/testing required)
  • Operate forklifts (current certification required)

Must-Have Qualifications

  • Minimum 6 months of welding, sheet metal, or metal fabrication experience
  • Experience performing MIG and/or TIG welding (butt and fillet welds required)
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and written instructions
  • Strong hand-eye coordination and welding tool dexterity
  • Basic math skills (addition, subtraction, measurement)
  • Ability to follow safety procedures and production standards
  • Ability to obtain AWS welding certifications (D1.1 or D1.3) if required

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with multi-pass welding and full-penetration welds
  • Prior experience in a manufacturing or production welding environment
  • Forklift certification (current or previously certified)
  • Experience with plasma cutting and oxy-acetylene torch work
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and metal fabrication experience

Why Apply?

  • Competitive hourly pay with growth potential
  • Hands-on fabrication and production welding environment
  • Opportunity to expand welding certifications and technical skills
  • Day and swing shift options available
  • Stable full-time manufacturing position with overtime opportunities
  • Team-oriented shop environment with long-term career potential

Company Description

For over 30 years, clients and candidates have entrusted AtWork to provide workforce solutions nationwide. With over 80 offices nationwide, AtWork specialize in executive, professional, commercial, and government verticals. AtWork utilizes a collaborative approach where we deliver quick, high-quality results. Our customizable service portfolio focuses on direct-hire and flexible workforce solutions. Since 1986, AtWork has continued to be an award-recognized leader in the staffing industry by clients, candidates, and industry professionals.