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Plasma Cutter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CNC Plasma Operator

West Point, MS ยท On-site

$17.25 - $23.50/hr

If you have hands-on CNC plasma cutting experience, understand production drawings and know how to work safely in a manufacturing shop environment, we want to hear from you. Position Summary The CNC ...

A Plasma Operator performs duties necessary to set up and operate plasma cutting equipment to cut material according to customer specifications and blueprints. In addition to preparing orders ...

The CNC Plasma Cutting Table Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of computer-numerically controlled (CNC) plasma cutting equipment to produce precision metal components in ...

Torchman - Plasma

San Jose, CA

$20.50 - $25/hr

Plasma Cutting Operations -- operate handheld and table-mounted plasma torches to cut scrap metal into specified sizes for processing, transport, or resale. * Material Identification -- distinguish ...

Torchman - Plasma

San Jose, CA

$20.50 - $24.75/hr

Plasma Cutting Operations - operate handheld and tablemounted plasma torches to cut scrap metal into specified sizes for processing, transport, or resale. * Material Identification - distinguish ...

CNC Plasma Operator

Conroe, TX ยท On-site

$20 - $30/hr

The ideal candidate will have experience operating CNC plasma cutting machines, with a keen eye for detail and commitment to quality. You will be responsible for setting up, programming, and ...

Torchman - Plasma

San Jose, CA

$20.50 - $25/hr

Plasma Cutting Operations - operate handheld and table-mounted plasma torches to cut scrap metal into specified sizes for processing, transport, or resale. * Material Identification - distinguish ...

CNC Plasma Operator

Conroe, TX

$17.50 - $24/hr

The ideal candidate will have experience operating CNC plasma cutting machines, with a keen eye for detail and commitment to quality. You will be responsible for setting up, programming, and ...

Torchman - Plasma

San Jose, CA ยท On-site

$20.50 - $24.75/hr

Plasma Cutting Operations - operate handheld and table-mounted plasma torches to cut scrap metal into specified sizes for processing, transport, or resale. * Material Identification - distinguish ...

CNC Plasma Operator

Conroe, TX ยท On-site

$20 - $30/hr

The ideal candidate will have experience operating CNC plasma cutting machines, with a keen eye for detail and commitment to quality. You will be responsible for setting up, programming, and ...

Operate CNC plasma cutting table to cut steel, stainless steel, and aluminum according to specifications * Lift and handle materials weighing up to 75 pounds regularly * Follow job packet ...

Plasma Table Operator

Bedford, OH ยท On-site

$16 - $19.50/hr

Operate CNC plasma cutting table to cut steel, stainless steel, and aluminum according to specifications * Lift and handle materials weighing up to 75 pounds regularly * Follow job packet ...

Plasma Table Operator

Brenham, TX ยท On-site

$20 - $24/hr

The Plasma Table Operator is responsible for setting up, programming, and operating CNC plasma cutting equipment to produce precision parts used in fabricated assemblies. This role works closely with ...

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Plasma Cutter information

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How much do plasma cutter jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for plasma cutter in the United States is $16.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common safety challenges faced by plasma cutters, and how are they typically addressed in the workplace?

Plasma cutters often encounter safety challenges such as exposure to intense heat, ultraviolet light, and metal fumes. Workplaces address these risks by providing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) including welding helmets, flame-resistant clothing, gloves, and proper ventilation systems. Regular training on equipment handling and adherence to safety protocols are also standard practices. Being vigilant about maintaining a clean and organized workspace helps minimize accidents and ensures a safer environment for everyone on the team.

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

To thrive as a Plasma Cutter, you need strong mechanical aptitude, a keen eye for detail, and a solid understanding of fabrication drawings, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with plasma cutting machines, CNC systems, and safety protocols is typically required, and certifications like OSHA or welding credentials are often valued. Manual dexterity, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work independently or as part of a team set outstanding plasma cutters apart. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure precision, safety, and efficiency in metal fabrication environments.

What are plasma cutters?

Plasma cutters are skilled professionals who use specialized equipment to cut through electrically conductive materials such as steel, aluminum, brass, and copper. They operate plasma cutting torches, which generate a high-temperature plasma arc to melt and sever metal with precision. Plasma cutters are commonly employed in manufacturing, construction, automotive repair, and metal fabrication industries. Their work requires attention to detail, safety awareness, and knowledge of various cutting techniques to ensure clean, accurate cuts.

What is the difference between Plasma Cutter vs Welder?

AspectPlasma CutterWelder
Required CredentialsCertification in plasma cutting, technical trainingWelding certification (e.g., AWS), technical training
Work EnvironmentFabrication shops, construction sites, industrial settingsFabrication shops, construction sites, manufacturing facilities
Industry UsageMetal cutting and fabricationMetal joining and assembly

Both Plasma Cutters and Welders work in metal fabrication environments and often require technical certifications. While Plasma Cutters focus on cutting metal with high-temperature plasma arcs, Welders join metals together through various welding techniques. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job role in the metalworking industry.

More about Plasma Cutter jobs
What states have the most Plasma Cutter jobs? States with the most job openings for Plasma Cutter jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Plasma Cutter jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Plasma Cutter jobs are:
Infographic showing various Plasma Cutter job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,298 per year, or $16.5 per hour.
CNC Plasma Operator

CNC Plasma Operator

STS Technical Services

West Point, MS โ€ข On-site

$17.25 - $23.50/hr

Contractor

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

STS Technical Services is hiring a CNC Plasma Operator in West Point, Mississippi. This role is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of CNC plasma cutting equipment to produce precision metal components in accordance with engineering drawings, work orders and quality specifications.
If you have hands-on CNC plasma cutting experience, understand production drawings and know how to work safely in a manufacturing shop environment, we want to hear from you.
Position Summary
The CNC Plasma Cutting Table Operator is responsible for operating computer-numerically controlled plasma cutting equipment to support production throughput, dimensional accuracy and material utilization while following all safety and quality management system requirements.
Machine Setup and Operation
  • Set up and operate CNC plasma cutting table per daily work orders and router packages
  • Load and interpret CNC programs, including G-code and machine-native formats
  • Make minor program edits as authorized
  • Select and install correct consumables, including tips, electrodes, shields and swirl rings, per material type and thickness
  • Set plasma parameters including amperage, cut speed, pierce delay and gas pressures
  • Nest parts efficiently using CAM/nesting software to maximize material yield and minimize scrap
  • Perform test cuts and verify dimensional accuracy prior to full production runs

Quality and Inspection
  • Perform in-process inspection using calipers, squares and tape measures to verify part dimensions
  • Interpret engineering drawings, GD&T callouts and cut-to-size specifications
  • Identify, tag and segregate nonconforming material
  • Initiate NCR documentation as required
  • Maintain first-article documentation and traveler sign-offs per QMS procedures
  • Monitor cut quality indicators, including dross, bevel angle, kerf width and surface condition

Material Handling
  • Stage raw material, including plate, sheet and structural material, at the machine using overhead crane, forklift or manual handling
  • Verify material certifications and heat/lot traceability prior to cutting
  • Handle, label and store finished cut parts to prevent damage and maintain part identity
  • Return and properly store remnant material
  • Update material inventory as applicable

Preventive Maintenance and Housekeeping
  • Perform daily pre-shift inspections, including water table level, rail cleanliness, Z-axis calibration and consumable condition
  • Clean slag, spatter and water table debris per scheduled PM intervals
  • Lubricate drive components and check drive system alignment per OEM maintenance schedule
  • Log machine downtime, consumable usage and maintenance actions in the maintenance log
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area in compliance with 5S standards

Safety
  • Follow all lockout/tagout procedures before performing any maintenance or consumable change
  • Wear required PPE, including safety glasses, face shield, hearing protection, steel-toed footwear and flame-resistant clothing
  • Monitor and maintain proper ventilation and fume extraction during cutting operations
  • Report unsafe conditions, near misses and incidents immediately to supervision

Minimum Qualifications
  • High school diploma or GED required
  • Technical or vocational training in welding, machining or fabrication preferred
  • Minimum 1 to 2 years of hands-on CNC plasma cutting experience in a manufacturing environment
  • Demonstrated ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and material certifications
  • Basic math skills including fractions, decimals and measurement conversions
  • Proficiency with common hand measuring tools, including calipers, tape measure and combination square
  • Ability to safely operate overhead crane and/or forklift
  • Crane or forklift certification preferred or obtainable

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with nesting software such as Hypertherm ProNest, SigmaNEST or equivalent
  • Familiarity with Hypertherm, Lincoln Electric or ESAB plasma cutting systems
  • Prior experience in a defense, aerospace or ISO 9001-certified manufacturing environment
  • Knowledge of metal alloys including mild steel, stainless steel, aluminum and high-strength steels
  • Familiarity with basic G-code editing and CNC controller interfaces such as Burny, Hypertherm Phoenix or similar

Physical Requirements
  • Lift and carry up to 50 lbs. frequently
  • Lift and carry 51 to 100 lbs. occasionally with assistance or equipment
  • Stand and walk on concrete flooring continuously throughout shift
  • Bend, stoop and reach frequently
  • Work in environments with heat, noise and fumes continuously
  • Use hands and fingers for precise adjustments continuously

Work Environment
This position operates in a manufacturing shop environment with exposure to metal fumes, UV/IR arc light, noise levels requiring hearing protection and hot work surfaces. Temperatures may vary seasonally. PPE is required at all times on the shop floor.
Authorization
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
About STS Technical Services
STS Technical Services is a Top 100 Staffing Firm that partners with some of the largest names in the aerospace, manufacturing, defense and industrial industries. Our professional recruitment teams connect talented individuals with career opportunities at client locations throughout the United States and around the world.
If you want to speak with a Recruiting Professional directly, call 1-800-359-4787.
STS Technical Services is an equal opportunity employer.
#IndeedSTS