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Plate Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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* Read blueprints and roll or form product within specified tolerance on drawing for specified material using CNC Press Brake and CNC Plate Rolling Equipment. * Set up and operate various pieces of ...

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We are seeking a motivated and dependable Plate Laser, Plasma Cutter, and Tube Laser Operator to join our team. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with laser cutting experience who is eager ...

PLATE LEAD

Greeley, CO ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Job Title: Plate Freezer Lead Reports To: Production Manager Department: Production Job Status ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ...

Experience in setting up and operating plasma, laser amp; gang Oxy cutting machines designed to cut shapes, bevel, and drill plate material. * Candidate must have a thorough understanding of CNC ...

Review and understand press requirements, including plate grippers, sheet sizes, types of stock ... Frequent use of hands for handling materials and operating equipment. * Standing and walking for ...

The Plate Engineering Lead is a position responsible for the execution of Plate driven projects in ... Plant Engineering project Experience and Knowledge of Operating Departments * Working Knowledge of ...

Platemaker

Mequon, WI ยท On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Review and understand press requirements, including plate grippers, sheet sizes, types of stock ... Frequent use of hands for handling materials and operating equipment. * Standing and walking for ...

New

Platemaker

Rochester, NY ยท On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Review and understand press requirements, including plate grippers, sheet sizes, types of stock ... Frequent use of hands for handling materials and operating equipment. * Standing and walking for ...

Showing results 41-60

Plate Operator information

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$12

$19

$25

How much do plate operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for plate operator in the United States is $19.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $20.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges plate operators face in maintaining equipment efficiency, and how are they typically addressed?

Plate Operators often encounter challenges such as equipment jams, plate misalignments, or wear and tear that can disrupt production schedules. Addressing these issues requires regular equipment inspections, prompt troubleshooting, and close collaboration with maintenance teams. Many workplaces provide ongoing training to help operators quickly identify and resolve common problems, ensuring minimal downtime and consistent product quality. Communication with supervisors and other operators is also crucial for sharing best practices and maintaining a safe, efficient work environment.

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

To thrive as a Plate Operator, you need a solid understanding of industrial machinery, basic mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with manufacturing equipment, safety protocols, and sometimes certifications in forklift operation or OSHA compliance are commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure efficient production, minimize downtime, and maintain workplace safety in a manufacturing environment.

What is a plate operator?

Plate Operators are skilled workers responsible for operating machinery that handles metal plates or sheets in industrial settings, such as manufacturing or printing. Their duties often include setting up, adjusting, and maintaining plate-handling equipment, ensuring the correct alignment and feed of materials, and monitoring production for quality. Plate Operators must follow safety protocols and may also perform basic troubleshooting and maintenance tasks. This role requires attention to detail, technical aptitude, and adherence to safety standards.
More about Plate Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Plate Operator jobs? Cities with the most Plate Operator job openings:
What states have the most Plate Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Plate Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Plate Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 6% Temporary, 6% Contract, and 11% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,702 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

CNC Plate Processing Operator (Burn Table)

Toledo Steel Supply

Erie, MI โ€ข On-site

$18/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Shape What’s Next in Steel Fabrication

Imagine turning raw plate into precision parts that power construction, manufacturing, and infrastructure. As a CNC Plate Processing Operator at Toledo Steel Supply, your craftsmanship and safety mindset help us deliver exceptional results—while you grow within a team that lives its values: Service, Teamwork, going Above & Beyond, Respecting Others, and Success.

Your impact

You’ll combine technical skill with problem-solving to execute complex cuts, keep equipment running, and protect quality from setup through final inspection.

What you’ll do
  • Operate CNC burn tables using plasma and oxy-fuel to deliver parts to print
  • Set up jobs to balance speed, accuracy, and material yield
  • Perform oxygen/gas flame cutting on plate from 1 3/8” to 10” thick
  • Run CNC plasma on 1/8” to 1 1/4” material
  • Read work orders and confirm specs before cutting; follow standard cutting practices
  • Identify and verify material grade using the color-coding system
  • Validate tolerances and cut quality using a tape measure and calipers
  • Troubleshoot issues and make routine adjustments to minimize downtime
  • Operate material handling equipment (forklift & overhead crane) safely
  • Document and complete pre-/post-shift preventive maintenance
  • Keep the cutting surface and surrounding area clean and service-ready
  • Collaborate with Supervisors and Shift Leads; assist with additional tasks as needed
Growth-ready profile
  • High school diploma or GED; bonus points for engineering or technical certificates
  • 1–3 years operating basic CNC machinery; plasma/laser/oxy experience a plus
  • Mechanical aptitude with a commitment to quality workmanship
  • Confident reading a tape measure; clear, proactive communicator
  • Reliable, punctual, and willing to work overtime (including short-notice needs)
Environment and physical demands

Work is performed in a manufacturing shop with regular exposure to noise, chemicals, and industrial materials. You’ll stand for long periods and lift up to 50 lbs.

How we support you
  • Competitive wages
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with profit sharing
  • Paid vacation and sick time
Team expectations
  • Excellent verbal communication
  • Positive attitude; respect for co-workers and supervisors
  • Self-driven, detail-oriented, and organized
Our policies

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions, unless such accommodation would cause undue hardship.

Toledo Steel Supply is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristics as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.

Final note

This overview captures the core of the role. Responsibilities may be updated at any time, with or without notice, to meet operational and customer priorities.