Job Description – Laser Machine Operator
Job Title: Laser Machine Operator
Department: Production / Manufacturing
Industry: Stainless Steel Fabrication / Metal Manufacturing
Reporting To: Production Supervisor / Production Manager
Location: [Company Location]
Employment Type: Full-Time
Job Summary
We are looking for a skilled and responsible Laser Machine Operator to operate and monitor CNC laser cutting machines used for cutting stainless steel sheets, plates, and components. The operator will be responsible for machine setup, material loading, program selection, quality inspection, routine maintenance, and ensuring safe and efficient production according to approved drawings and specifications.
Key Responsibilities
Operate CNC fiber laser cutting machines for stainless steel and other metal sheets/plates.
Set up the laser machine according to production requirements, material thickness, grade, and cutting specifications.
Load and unload stainless steel sheets safely using appropriate handling equipment.
Read and understand engineering drawings, dimensions, tolerances, and cutting layouts.
Select and execute the correct CNC/laser cutting program.
Check and adjust cutting parameters such as laser power, cutting speed, gas pressure, focus, and nozzle settings.
Monitor the machine during operation and identify abnormal conditions, alarms, or cutting defects.
Inspect finished components for dimensions, edge quality, burrs, slag, scratches, and overall conformity.
Use measuring instruments such as vernier calipers, measuring tapes, micrometers, and gauges as required.
Minimize material wastage through proper nesting and efficient sheet utilization.
Maintain production records, job cards, inspection reports, and machine-related documentation.
Perform routine cleaning and basic preventive maintenance of the laser cutting machine.
Check consumables such as nozzles, lenses/protective windows, and cutting heads and replace them when required.
Coordinate with the production, quality, maintenance, and programming teams to resolve production issues.
Follow approved work instructions, production schedules, and quality standards.
Maintain proper housekeeping around the machine and production area.
Follow all company safety procedures, including PPE requirements and safe material-handling practices.
Required Skills & Qualifications
ITI / Diploma / technical qualification in Mechanical, Production, Fabrication, or a related field is preferred.
2–5 years of experience operating CNC fiber laser cutting machines, preferably in stainless steel fabrication or sheet-metal manufacturing.
Knowledge of stainless steel grades such as SS 304, SS 316, SS 202, etc.
Ability to read engineering drawings and understand dimensions and tolerances.
Basic knowledge of CNC laser cutting parameters and machine operation.
Experience with materials of different thicknesses and understanding of appropriate cutting settings.
Familiarity with oxygen, nitrogen, and/or compressed-air cutting processes is an advantage.
Basic knowledge of measuring instruments and quality inspection.
Ability to identify common laser cutting defects and make appropriate machine/parameter adjustments.
Good attention to detail and commitment to product quality.
Ability to work independently as well as in a team.
Willingness to work in shifts when required.
Safety Responsibilities
Always wear required PPE, including safety shoes, gloves, safety glasses, and other specified protective equipment.
Follow laser-machine safety procedures and never bypass safety interlocks or guards.
Follow safe procedures for loading, unloading, and handling heavy stainless steel sheets.
Keep the machine and surrounding work area clean and free from hazards.
Immediately report machine faults, unsafe conditions, or accidents to the supervisor.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
Production output and machine utilization.
Cutting accuracy and product quality.
Material utilization and scrap percentage.
Machine downtime and effective troubleshooting.
Compliance with production schedules.
Safety compliance and housekeeping.
Rejection/rework percentage.
Preferred Experience
Experience with CNC Fiber Laser Cutting Machines from manufacturers such as Bystronic, TRUMPF, Mazak, Amada, Bodor, HSG, or similar machines will be an advantage.
Working Conditions
The position involves working in a manufacturing environment and may require standing for extended periods, handling metal sheets with lifting equipment, and working in rotational shifts depending on production requirements.