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Punch Laser Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rapat Corporation

Laser Operator

Hawley, MN

$16.75 - $21.25/hr

Laser Operator Location: Hawley, MN Full-Time: 45-hour work week Compensation: DOE About Us: Rapat ... Operate machinery: shear, drill press, forklift, punch press * Operate Fiber Laser * Use nesting ...

Rapat Corporation

Laser Operator

Hawley, MN · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Laser Operator Location: Hawley, MN Full-Time: 45-hour work week Compensation: DOE About Us: Rapat ... punch pressOperate Fiber Laser Use nesting software What you'll need: High school diploma or GED1 ...

nVent

Punch / Laser Operator 2nd Shift

Warwick, RI · On-site

$17.75 - $22.50/hr

As a Machine Operator II , you'll play an important role in producing high-quality products while working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. You'll help keep operations running smoothly ...

nVent

Punch / Laser Operator 2nd Shift

Warwick, RI

$17.75 - $22.50/hr

As a Machine Operator II , you'll play an important role in producing high-quality products while working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. You'll help keep operations running smoothly ...

Flex Ltd

Amada EML Punch/Laser Machine Operator

Fontana, CA · On-site

$19.06 - $25.73/hr

Report to the Fabrication Manager, the Amada EML/Laser Machine Operator is responsible for operating various machinery throughout the production floor, including a Press Brake, Punch Press, CNC Laser ...

nVent

CNC Punch / Laser Operator 2nd Shift

Warwick, RI

$19.50 - $24.25/hr

The Machine Operator III sets up and operates complex manual & CNC metal fabrication machines (saws, shears, brakes, punch/drill presses, etc. following quality/quantity standards; trains other ...

nVent

CNC Punch / Laser Operator 2nd Shift

Warwick, RI · On-site

$19.50 - $24.25/hr

The Machine Operator III sets up and operates complex manual & CNC metal fabrication machines (saws, shears, brakes, punch/drill presses, etc. following quality/quantity standards; trains other ...

Aerotek

Laser Operator

Clearwater, FL

$22 - $25/hr

Laser Operator The Laser Operator sets up and operates Mazak laser machines and Accupress and ... Comfort working with fabrication equipment such as laser machines, press brakes, turret punch ...

New

Flex

Amada EML Punch/Laser Machine Operator

Fontana, CA · On-site

$19.06 - $25.73/hr

Report to the Fabrication Manager, the Amada EML/Laser Machine Operator is responsible for operating various machinery throughout the production floor, including a Press Brake, Punch Press, CNC Laser ...

nVent

CNC Punch / Laser Operator 2nd Shift

Warwick, RI · On-site

$19.50 - $24.25/hr

The Machine Operator III sets up and operates complex manual & CNC metal fabrication machines (saws, shears, brakes, punch/drill presses, etc. following quality/quantity standards; trains other ...

nVent

CNC Punch / Laser Operator 2nd Shift

Warwick, RI

$19.50 - $24.25/hr

The Machine Operator III sets up and operates complex manual & CNC metal fabrication machines (saws, shears, brakes, punch/drill presses, etc. following quality/quantity standards; trains other ...

Qualdoc

CNC Punch Press Technician

Newport News, VA · On-site

$18/hr

This role is responsible for setting up and operating CNC punching equipment, preparing tooling ... Experience with CNC turret punch presses, punch/laser combination systems, or similar sheet metal ...

Qualdoc

CNC Punch Press Technician

Newport News, VA · On-site

$18/hr

This role is responsible for setting up and operating CNC punching equipment, preparing tooling ... Experience with CNC turret punch presses, punch/laser combination systems, or similar sheet metal ...

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All JobsPunch Laser Operator Jobs

Punch Laser Operator information

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$13

$19

$27

How much do punch laser operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for punch laser operator in the United States is $19.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.
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Punch Laser Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Punch Laser Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,394 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

Punch Laser Lead - 1st Shift

Snelling North Texas

Rowlett, TX

$30 - $38/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

This direct-hire opportunity is ideal for an experienced Punch/Laser Lead ready to oversee a high-tech manufacturing department while helping drive production, quality, and team success.
Pay Rate: $30 to $34, DEO, will consider up to $38+ for multi-machine Lead
Location: On-Site, will work in Bonham TX until the Rowlett facility opens
Position / Title: Punch / Laser Lead
Shift / Hours:
  • Monday to Friday, 7:00am-3:30pm
  • @ times they have OT that can be from 5:00-3:30 & if Saturday 5:00/6:00 - 11:00
  • Subject to Change
Essential Responsibilities
  • Lead the daily activities of the Punch/Laser department.
  • Set up, operate, and troubleshoot Amada punch and laser machines.
  • Assign work to operators to meet production schedules.
  • Ensure parts meet blueprint specifications and customer quality requirements.
  • Verify machine setups, tooling, and first-piece inspections.
  • Monitor production efficiency and minimize downtime.
  • Coordinate tooling changes and maintain an organized tool crib.
  • Perform and verify preventive maintenance activities.
  • Train and mentor operators on machine operation, quality standards, and safety procedures.
  • Work closely with Quality, Engineering, and Production departments to resolve manufacturing issues.
  • Ensure all production documentation is completed accurately.
  • Promote a safe work environment and enforce company safety policies.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives throughout the department.
Qualifications
  • 5+ years of experience operating and setting up CNC punch and laser equipment.
  • Previous leadership, lead, or supervisory experience in a manufacturing environment preferred.
  • Experience with Amada punch and laser systems strongly preferred.
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints, work orders, and technical drawings.
  • Strong understanding of sheet metal fabrication processes.
  • Knowledge of punch tooling, laser cutting parameters, material types, thicknesses, and grain direction.
  • Experience performing quality inspections using measuring equipment.
  • Mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot machine and tooling issues.
  • Forklift experience is a plus.
  • Strong communication and organizational skills.
  • Positive attitude with a "lead by example" approach to leadership.
Physical Requirements
  • Stand and walk throughout the workday.
  • Frequently lift and handle materials weighing up to 50 pounds.
  • Work safely in a manufacturing environment around moving equipment and machinery.
Benefits
Company offers a competitive compensation package including:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
  • Retirement Plan
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Time Off