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Punch Laser Operator Jobs in Connecticut (NOW HIRING)

Shop Tech

Shelton, CT · On-site

$22/hr

... Experience operating fabrication equipment, CNC machinery, punch presses, press brakes, laser cutting equipment, or similar manufacturing equipment. • Experience with sheet metal fabrication ...

... Experience operating fabrication equipment, CNC machinery, punch presses, press brakes, laser cutting equipment, or similar manufacturing equipment. • Experience with sheet metal fabrication ...

Experience operating fabrication equipment, CNC machinery, punch presses, press brakes, laser cutting equipment, or similar manufacturing equipment. * Experience with sheet metal fabrication, forming ...

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 Connecticut?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Punch Laser Operator job openings in Connecticut as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

CNC Op - 4 Day Workweek | 4-Day Weekend Every Other Week!

Deep River, CT • On-site

Chapco Incorporated
Industrial Machinery Manufacturing • 51 - 200 employees

$20 - $26/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

WORK 4 DAYS...GET A 4-DAY WEEKEND EVERY OTHER WEEK!

What You Get

  • Full-Time Employment
  • Competitive Pay
  • Comprehensive Benefits
  • More Time for What Matters!  More time for family, appointments, hobbies and travel
  • Predictable Schedule so you can plan ahead
  • Every Other Weekend = FOUR DAYS OFF!

Your Time Matters. Come Work Where Your Schedule Works for You.




Production Engineering and Development 

Contract Manufacturing | Metal Fabrication | Assembly 

Job Description | Laser/Punch Operator 

The position of Laser/Punch Operator operates the CNC laser cutting machine as well as the laser/punch combo machine including all general production. 


  • Production
    • Set up and operate CNC Laser cutting and laser/punch combo machine.
    • Maintain accurate ERP data input.
    • The ability and willingness to learn. 
    • Self-starter.
    • Able to provide a great level of attention to detail and focus on any given task.
    • Separate parts from skeletons that are cut on the laser and stack onto pallet, containers or rolling tables
    • Ability to lift parts, bins and scrap, up to 50 pounds
    • Preparing product for movement to the next department
    • Operate small hand and power tools 
    • Deburring of parts 
    • Support all other department/shop tasks when needed.
    • The use of measuring tools. Calipers, tape measures, gauge pins etc.
    • Blueprint reading 
  • Quality
    • Assures that all products conform to prescribed quality standards. 
    • Uphold all ISO requirements that are applicable to maintain quality and standard practices.
    • Submit all first pieces to QA prior to production.
    • Maintain cutting quality at acceptable feed rates 
    • Laser scanning first pieces.
  • Safety and Maintenance
    • Follow all standard safety regulations 
    • Follow company rules and safety policies while working in a fast-paced environment. 
    • Maintain an organized and clean work area along with maintaining a high level of attention to detail and focus on the given task. 
  • Skills, Qualifications and Requirements
    • Minimum of one year of CNC experience in the metal trade preferred.
    • High school diploma or GED Preferred.
    • Competent to learn all aspects of Trumpf or similar CNC laser/laser punch combo machines
    • Ability to use measuring equipment to include calipers, micrometers, squares and tape measures.
    • Ability to distinguish material types.
    • Mechanical background 

6:00 am - 4:30 pm
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