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Punch Laser Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Andersen Industries, Inc.

Be Seen First

Press Brake, Laser and Turret Punch Operators

Victorville, CA · On-site

$23 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Loading material, unloading laser-cut parts, deburring, and stacking. * CNC Turret Punch - ability to set up the machine, including loading, sharpening, and maintenance of tooling. * Loading material ...

Flex

Fabrication Machine Operator (Laser) (2nd Shift)

Fontana, CA

$19.06 - $25.73/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operates various machinery (press brake, punch press, laser) to manufacture parts from sheet metal ... Previous experience operating machinery (press brake, punch press, laser). * At least one year of ...

Flex Ltd

Fabrication Machine Operator (Laser) (2nd Shift)

Fontana, CA · On-site

$19.06 - $25.73/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operates various machinery (press brake, punch press, laser) to manufacture parts from sheet metal ... Previous experience operating machinery (press brake, punch press, laser). * At least one year of ...

Hydraulics International

Sheetmetal II

Chatsworth, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $22/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Fabricate sheet metal parts by operating one or all of the following machines: Punch Press, Water Jet, Laser Cut, Press Brake * Set-up tooling on the machine as needed * Maintain machine and its ...

Flory Industries

Fabricator

Salida, CA

$20 - $34/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

This role involves setting up and operating machinery, such as saws, hydraulic shears, fastener ... DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Set up and operate laser machines, CNC Punch, Press Brakes, Roll, Saws ...

Flory Industries

Fabricator

Salida, CA · On-site

$20 - $34/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

This role involves setting up and operating machinery, such as saws, hydraulic shears, fastener ... Set up and operate laser machines, CNC Punch, Press Brakes, Roll, Saws, Hydraulic Shear, Fastener ...

WET Design

Sr. Press Break Operator

Sun Valley, CA · On-site

$22 - $34/hr

Sr. Press Break Operator WET (Design) Sun Valley, California WHAT WE DO AT WET We create projects ... CNC Laser * CNC Punch Press ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: * Must be able to lift at least 50+ lbs

Los Angeles Lighting Mfg. Co.

Be Seen First

Machine Operator, Technology Center and Manual Machines

El Monte, CA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

... laser machine using a forklift. - Ensure the integrity of the item by comparing it to a drawing(s ... punch press type machines. - Assembly line experience - Strong attention to detail. - Excellent ...

WET Design

Sr. Press Break Operator

Sun Valley, CA · On-site

Sr. Press Break Operator WET (Design) Sun Valley, California WHAT WE DO AT WET We create projects ... CNC Laser * CNC Punch Press ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: * Must be able to lift at least 50+ lbs

Goflory

Fabricator

Salida, CA · On-site

$20 - $34/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Experience operating saws, fastener presses, laser machines, CNC Punch, and press brakes. COMPETENCIES/SKILLS Safety * Works safely and follows all safety work rules according to the company handbook ...

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Punch Laser Operator information

What is a punch laser operator?

Punch Laser Operators are skilled technicians who operate machines that use a combination of punching and laser cutting to shape and cut metal sheets according to specific designs. They are responsible for setting up the machinery, loading materials, programming the machine with the required specifications, and monitoring the process for quality and safety. In addition to machine operation, they often inspect finished parts for accuracy and perform routine maintenance on the equipment. Their work is essential in manufacturing industries that produce metal components for various applications.

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

To thrive as a Punch Laser Operator, you need a solid understanding of metal fabrication, blueprint reading, and machine operation, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with CNC machine controls, CAD/CAM software, and safety certifications is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are essential soft skills for this role. These skills ensure accurate production, minimize errors, and promote workplace safety in a manufacturing environment.

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

Punch Laser Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining precise tolerances during high-volume production runs and troubleshooting minor equipment malfunctions. Successfully addressing these issues typically involves careful machine setup, routine maintenance, and a strong attention to detail. Operators can also benefit from ongoing training on new machine technologies and collaborating closely with quality control and engineering teams to quickly resolve any production issues. Developing strong communication skills and a proactive approach to problem-solving can help ensure efficient workflow and product quality.

What is the difference between Punch Laser Operator vs CNC Punch Press Operator?

AspectPunch Laser OperatorCNC Punch Press Operator
CertificationsTypically requires machine operation and safety certificationsSimilar certifications, often overlapping with machine safety and operation
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, metal fabrication shopsManufacturing facilities, sheet metal shops
Job FocusOperating laser punching machines for precise cutsOperating CNC punch presses for shaping metal sheets
Industry UsageMetal fabrication, aerospace, automotiveMetalworking, construction, manufacturing

Both roles involve operating machinery to cut and shape metal sheets, often requiring similar certifications and working in comparable environments. The main difference lies in the equipment used: Punch Laser Operators focus on laser punching machines, while CNC Punch Press Operators work with CNC-controlled punch presses. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers target the right roles in metal fabrication industries.

What are popular job titles related to Punch Laser Operator jobs in California?

For Punch Laser Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Punch Laser Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Punch Laser Operator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Punch Laser Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Punch Laser Operator job openings:

Punch Laser Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Punch Laser 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.

Laser Programmer - AMADA Software

Harcon Precision Metals Inc

San Diego, CA • On-site

$19 - $25/hr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Department: Laser

Reports To: Shop Supervisor

Employment Type: Full-Time, Non-Exempt

Position Summary

The Punch/Laser Programmer is responsible for creating accurate, efficient CNC programs for AMADA punch and laser machines. This role supports production by converting engineering drawings into machine-ready programs, optimizing tooling paths, and ensuring high-quality, cost-effective manufacturing of sheet metal components.

Key Responsibilities
  • Develop CNC programs for AMADA punch and laser machines using AMADA software (AP100, Dr.ABE, VPSS 3i, or equivalent).
  • Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and specifications to generate accurate part layouts.
  • Optimize tool paths, nesting, and material utilization to reduce waste and improve efficiency.
  • Select appropriate tooling, punches, dies, and cutting parameters based on material type and thickness.
  • Collaborate with Machine Shop Supervisor, engineers, and operators to ensure manufacturability and accuracy.
  • Troubleshoot programming issues and adjust programs as needed for quality or production changes.
  • Maintain organized program files, revision history, and documentation.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives related to programming, tooling, and workflow.
  • Ensure all programs meet company quality standards and safety requirements.
Qualifications
  • 2+ years of experience programming AMADA punch or laser machines (preferred).
  • Proficiency with AMADA programming software (AP100, Dr.ABE, VPSS 3i, or similar).
  • Strong understanding of sheet metal fabrication, tooling, and manufacturing processes.
  • Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and GD&T.
  • Experience with nesting strategies and material optimization.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced production environment with tight deadlines.
  • Basic knowledge of CNC machine operation is a plus.
Physical Requirements
  • Ability to stand, walk, or move around the shop floor as needed.
  • Ability to lift up to 25 lbs occasionally.
  • Use of PPE required (safety glasses, steel-toe shoes, hearing protection when applicable).