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Plasma Machine Operator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Direct Dimension LLC

Fabricator

Lake In The Hills, IL · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Familiarity with plasma cutting or metal forming * Experience operating fabrication machinery such as presses, shears, or ironworkers * Experience using press brake equipment Compensation ...

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Plasma Machine Operator information

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$11

$17

$22

How much do plasma machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for plasma machine operator in Illinois is $17.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $18.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a plasma machine operator?

A Plasma Machine Operator is a skilled worker who operates plasma cutting machines to cut, shape, or modify metal and other materials based on specific blueprints or instructions. They are responsible for setting up the machine, selecting the correct settings, loading materials, and ensuring precise and safe operation throughout the process. Plasma Machine Operators often work in manufacturing, fabrication, or metalworking environments, and may also be responsible for routine maintenance and quality control checks on the equipment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a plasma machine operator?

To thrive as a Plasma Machine Operator, you need a solid understanding of metal fabrication, blueprint reading, and machine operation, typically supported by a high school diploma or vocational training. Familiarity with CNC plasma cutting machines, CAD/CAM software, and safety protocols is crucial. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are important soft skills for minimizing errors and ensuring smooth workflow. These abilities are vital for producing precise parts efficiently and maintaining a safe, productive work environment.

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

Plasma Machine Operators often face challenges related to maintaining precision and safety while working with high-temperature equipment. Ensuring accurate cuts and minimizing material waste requires strong attention to detail and ongoing calibration of the machinery. Operators may also encounter issues with equipment malfunction or material inconsistencies, which can be addressed through regular maintenance checks and clear communication with the maintenance team. Staying updated on safety protocols and collaborating with teammates in fabrication or quality control helps ensure smooth workflow and high-quality output.

What are popular job titles related to Plasma Machine Operator jobs in Illinois?

For Plasma Machine Operator jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Plasma Machine Operator jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Plasma Machine Operator jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Plasma Machine Operator jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Plasma Machine Operator job openings:

Plasma Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plasma Machine Operator job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 30% Full Time, 68% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,655 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

Automated Welding Operator (CNC / Laser)

German American Chambers of Commerce

Lombard, IL

$30 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Automated Welding Operator (CNC / Laser)


Position Details

Department: Engineering / Operations

Location: Lombard, IL (with domestic and international travel as needed)

Employment Type: Full-Time

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt (Hourly)

Pay Range: $30.00 to $35.00 per hour, commensurate with experience, plus overtime eligibility

    About pro beam USA

    pro beam USA Inc. is the North American subsidiary of pro beam Group, a global technology leader in electron beam (EB) welding, drilling, and additive manufacturing systems. Headquartered in Lombard, Illinois, we serve customers in the aerospace, defense, automotive, and energy sectors, delivering precision joining solutions that meet the most demanding engineering standards in the world.

    Why Join Us?

    • No Prior EB Experience Required: We will train the right candidate from the ground up on our specialized systems.
    • Global Career Development: Includes a structured training pathway with potential development opportunities at pro beam facilities in Germany.
    • Cutting-Edge Technology: Access world-class electron beam technology while working alongside a technically sophisticated international team.
    • Excellent Total Rewards: Competitive hourly pay, overtime opportunities, comprehensive medical/dental/vision coverage, and paid time off compliant with the Illinois Paid Leave Act.
    • Impact: Enjoy a collaborative, small-team environment with direct visibility to leadership and meaningful technical impact.


    Position Summary

    The Automated Welding Operator operates and programs automated welding equipment at pro beam USA, with a primary focus on electron beam (EB) welding systems. This is a hands-on, shop-floor role for someone who enjoys working directly with advanced machinery, learning new technology, and producing high-quality welds for customers in high-stakes industries. If you have operated any kind of automated welding equipment or precision CNC machinery, and you are mechanically curious and eager to grow, we want to hear from you.


    Key Responsibilities

    Machine Operation

    • Equipment Operation: Set up, operate, and monitor electron beam welding systems and other automated welding equipment in our job shop.
    • Quality Execution: Follow established weld procedures, parameter sheets, and work instructions to produce consistent, high-quality welds.
    • Part Inspections: Perform pre- and post-weld inspections including visual checks and basic dimensional verification.
    • Shop Upkeep: Support equipment calibration, routine maintenance, and regular housekeeping of the welding area.

    Process Support

    • Parameter Engineering: Assist senior technical staff in developing and refining welding parameters for new customer parts and materials.
    • Issue Resolution: Identify and report process deviations, equipment issues, or weld quality concerns to the technical team.
    • Troubleshooting: Participate in troubleshooting activities and contribute observations from hands-on machine operation.
    • Trials & Testing: Support process trials and sample production for new customer programs and feasibility studies.

    Customer & Field Support

    • Professional Representation: Represent pro beam USA professionally when interacting with customers on-site or during facility visits.
    • Demonstrations: Support customer demonstrations and witness testing as required.
    • Field Commissioning: Assist the field service team with equipment commissioning and customer training as the role develops.

    Documentation

    • Data Logs: Complete production records, traveler documents, and quality logs accurately and on time.
    • Compliance Standards: Follow all documentation requirements associated with aerospace and defense customer programs.
    • Audit Readiness: Contribute to maintaining an organized, compliant, and audit-ready work environment.

    Required Qualifications

    • Education: High school diploma or equivalent. (An Associate's degree, vocational/trade certification, or technical coursework is a plus).
    • Experience: Minimum 2 years of hands-on experience operating automated or CNC-controlled machinery in a production environment.
    • Technical Background: Hands-on experience with one or more of the following technologies:
      • Electron beam (EB) welding
      • Laser beam welding (LBW) or automated industrial laser cutting
      • Plasma arc welding (PAW)
      • Friction stir welding (FSW)
      • TIG/MIG setups in an automated or semi-automated environment
      • Advanced CNC machinery (Mills, Lathes, Routers)
    • Blueprints: Ability to read and follow weld procedures, technical drawings, and work instructions.
    • Aptitude: Strong mechanical aptitude and comfort working with precision equipment in a shop environment.
    • Reliability: Detail-oriented and safety-conscious with a track record of consistent attendance.
    • Legal: Authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship (required for defense program access).

    Preferred Qualifications

    • Direct experience operating electron beam welding systems (such as PTR, Sciaky, pro beam, or similar platforms).
    • Familiarity with vacuum systems or high-voltage equipment.
    • AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) or similar welding certification.
    • Experience working in an aerospace, defense, or NADCAP-accredited manufacturing environment.
    • Exposure to weld quality inspection methods including visual, dye penetrant, or X-ray.
    • Basic CNC or machine programming experience (G-code understanding).
    • Experience with quality documentation in an AS9100 or ISO 9001 environment.

    Work Environment & Physical Requirements

    • Work is performed in a laboratory, machine shop, and light industrial environment. Appropriate PPE is required and provided.
    • Exposure to high-voltage equipment, vacuum systems, and industrial lasers (comprehensive safety training is provided).
    • Occasional travel required (domestic and potentially international) for customer site visits, equipment commissioning, or technical training.
    • Must be able to lift up to 35 lbs and stand for extended periods during equipment operation.
    Employment Type: FULL_TIME

    Apply