ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Plasma Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

JTV Manufacturing

Laser & Plasma Operator

Sutherland, IA · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

Laser Operators are responsible for the following: * Enters all programming numbers into the lasers from office generated nests for all laser cut parts. * Responsible for unloading all steel ...

Mettler Toledo

Plasma Operator - 2nd Shift

Columbus, OH · On-site

$17.50 - $20/hr

... operating and maintaining foundational fabrication machinery and tools essential to production ... Handle material for Plasma Area with Crane. * Contribute to facility 5S and Lean initiatives.

Mettler Toledo

Plasma Operator - 2nd Shift

Columbus, OH · On-site

$17.50 - $20/hr

... operating and maintaining foundational fabrication machinery and tools essential to production ... Handle material for Plasma Area with Crane. * Contribute to facility 5S and Lean initiatives.

Four State Trucks

Fabrication CNC Plasma Operator

Joplin, MO · On-site

$18.25 - $25/hr

This position runs the CNC plasma cuttermachine to cut out production parts needed for fabrication shop assembly. Someparts fabrication needed and some limited welding as necessary. Dutiesand ...

reliance

CNC Plasma Operator

New Boston, OH · On-site

$16.50 - $22.50/hr

Job Summary The CNC Operator should have experience operating CNC controlled equipment; Sigma Nest, Nesting, Prime-cut. Develop programs to control machining or processing of materials by automatic ...

Cannonball Recruiting

CNC Machine Operator

Mount Joy, PA · On-site

$24 - $27/hr

CNC Plasma Operator Pay: $24-27/hr. (depending on experience level) Shift: Mon-Fri (7am to 3:30pm) Description: * The CNC Machine Operator will be responsible for running the cutting system that can ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPlasma Operator Jobs

Plasma Operator information

See salary details

$12

$24

$35

How much do plasma operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for plasma operator in the United States is $24.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $30.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Plasma Operator vs CNC Operator?

AspectPlasma OperatorCNC Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certifications, training in plasma cuttingHigh school diploma, CNC programming and operation training
Work EnvironmentManufacturing, metal fabrication, industrial settingsManufacturing, metalworking, machine shops
Industry UsageHeavy industry, construction, metal fabricationAutomotive, aerospace, precision manufacturing

Both Plasma Operators and CNC Operators work in manufacturing environments, often handling metal fabrication. While Plasma Operators focus on operating plasma cutting machines, CNC Operators program and operate computer-controlled machines. They share similar certifications and work settings, but their specific skills and tasks differ based on the equipment used.

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

To thrive as a Plasma Operator, you need a solid understanding of manufacturing processes, blueprint reading, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or relevant technical training. Familiarity with CNC plasma cutting machines, CAD/CAM software, and quality inspection tools is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure precise production, equipment safety, and efficient teamwork in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

How much does a plasma operator make?

A plasma operator typically earns between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators with certifications and knowledge of plasma cutting tools can earn higher wages, especially in manufacturing or industrial settings.

What are the duties of a plasma operator?

A plasma operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining plasma cutting and welding equipment to ensure precise cuts and welds. They monitor machine performance, adjust settings as needed, and follow safety protocols to prevent accidents in manufacturing or fabrication environments. Certification and knowledge of safety standards are often required for this role.

How much does a plasma cutter make?

A plasma operator's average salary typically ranges from $35,000 to $60,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in using plasma cutting tools can earn higher wages, especially in manufacturing or construction environments.

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

Plasma operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining precise cutting tolerances, managing equipment wear, and ensuring safety in a high-temperature environment. Effective management includes regular calibration of machinery, following strict safety protocols, and staying up-to-date with maintenance schedules. Collaborating closely with team members, such as welders and quality inspectors, helps ensure seamless workflow and adherence to project specifications. Continuous learning and on-the-job training also support plasma operators in overcoming technical hurdles and advancing in their careers.

Is a plasma table difficult to learn?

A plasma operator typically needs to learn how to operate a plasma cutting table, which involves understanding machine setup, safety procedures, and material handling. The learning curve can vary depending on prior experience with manufacturing equipment, but training and practice are essential for proficiency.

What are Plasma Operators?

Plasma Operators are skilled technicians who operate plasma cutting machines to cut, shape, or fabricate metal components. They set up, adjust, and monitor plasma cutters, ensuring materials are cut according to specifications. Their duties often include reading blueprints, maintaining equipment, and following safety protocols. Plasma Operators typically work in manufacturing, metal fabrication, or construction industries. Their expertise is essential for producing precise metal parts used in various products and structures.
More about Plasma Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Plasma Operator jobs? Cities with the most Plasma Operator job openings:
What states have the most Plasma Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Plasma Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Plasma Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Plasma Operator jobs are:
Plasma Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plasma Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, and 40% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,869 per year, or $24.5 per hour.
Laser & Plasma Operator

Laser & Plasma Operator

JTV Manufacturing

Sutherland, IA • On-site

$15 - $20/hr

Full-time

Posted yesterday

Job description

Laser Operators are responsible for the following:

  • Enters all programming numbers into the lasers from office generated nests for all laser cut parts.
  • Responsible for unloading all steel inventories from vendor trucks. Loading all materials onto the lasers. Checking laser cut parts with the prints for material match, example (material thickness, type of material, overall length & width)
  • Observe laser cutting quality & machine cutting conditions, making machine adjustments when needed & notifying supervisor of major problems/changes.
  • Unloading laser cut parts from unload tables, normal lifting is 1-40 lbs, when exceeding excessive weight operators will ask for help or use the forklift to unload heavy awkward parts.
  • All parts are to be organized on crates by customer or company ID.
  • Travelers are provided with shipping tags, computer print of the part, delivery due dates, P.O. number and all information needed to prepare each part for delivery.
  • All parts are to be checked randomly when coming off the laser to make sure the dimensions match the print.
  • All parts get boxed and tagged with quantities matching the purchase order, whenever short of parts laser operators will re-cut or advise there immediate supervisor of shortages.
  • Completed travelers will be turned into the office by each department at the end of each shift.
  • Completed orders will be transferred to the designated shipping area.
  • All equipment operators will follow all shift procedures for maintenance, cleaning, and care of equipment and premises at JTV Manufacturing when ending there shift.
  • Laser operators may be assigned to help in other departments or duties in addition to those listed above, according to the changing needs of the company.
  • Work conditions require standing at your work station, continuous lifting, bending, and walking. Employees will work in varying room temperatures and varying air conditions.
  • Normal shifts consist anywhere from 8 to 12 hours per day, Monday through Friday.
  • Employee’s are expected to be clocked in and at there work station on time for whichever shift they are working. Employees will wear personnel protective equipment, steel toe boots or shoes, safety glasses, gloves, ear plugs, as needed while at work.