Plasma Burner Programmer

Robinson Fans, Inc. is a sixth-generation, family-owned business with a proud legacy dating back to 1892. As a recognized leader in industrial air-moving equipment, we have been headquartered in Zelienople, PA, since 1922, with additional facilities in Trussville, AL, Lakeland, FL, and Salt Lake City, UT.

 

At Robinson Fans, our people are the foundation of our success. We foster a fast-paced, collaborative, and supportive environment where team members are empowered to lead, innovate, and grow.

 

We are seeking a Plasma Burner Programmer to play a critical role in driving operational excellence across our production facilities. This role is responsible for programming jobs for three cutting/burning machines, including plasma cutting tables. This position is more than programming—it’s about leadership, continuous improvement, and strategic collaboration.

This role is responsible for creating nests and programs for the plasma and burning tables, ensuring adherence to manufacturing schedule dates, and coordinating materials—both from inventory and customer-specific purchases—to support efficient production.

 

As the Plasma Burner Programmer, you will take ownership of nesting operations, ensuring optimal material usage, production efficiency, and alignment with engineering and operations teams. You will also lead initiatives to improve processes, reduce waste, and support cross-functional communication.

 

Key Responsibilities

• Perform programming/nesting operations across all Robinson production facilities, ensuring efficient material usage and timely delivery of CNC programs.


•  Create nests/programs for the plasma and laser tables for three different facilities in three states.


• Help maintain the manufacturing schedule dates and coordinate materials from inventory, as well as purchased customer-specific materials.


• Use SigmaNest software to create cut packages. Use tools within SigmaNest to maximize utilization, increase use of remnants, and use available stock material.


• Utilize and modify CAD files from design engineers and drafters.


• Production and Processing - Knowledge of raw materials used in sheet metal fabrication, production processes, bend deductions, turret punch press tooling, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture of goods.


• Collaborate closely with drafting, engineering, and operations teams to align nesting strategies with production goals.


• Drive process improvement by evaluating current workflows, documenting best practices, and implementing enhancements.


• Creatively solve production-related issues through nesting processes.


• Manage steel plate ordering through the purchasing department based on production needs and nesting plans.


• Use SigmaNest software to create cut packages. Use tools within SigmaNest to maximize utilization, increase use of remnants, and use available stock material.


• Ensure accurate documentation and organization of nesting files and CNC code using established systems.


• Support quoting and planning by providing material estimates and nesting insights to management.


• Mentor and support team members in nesting best practices and software usage.


• Monitor and report on nesting performance, material utilization, and opportunities for cost savings.


• Communicate effectively and professionally with stakeholders, support production-related priorities and deadlines.

Qualifications

• Associate degree, trade school certification, or equivalent experience in manufacturing or engineering.


• 5 years of experience in nesting/programming for a plasma burner, laser, or water jet.


• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.


• Proactive mindset with a passion for continuous improvement and operational excellence.

 

Skills & Competencies

• Proficiency in SigmaNEST (or similar nesting software); experience with AutoCAD preferred.


• Strong mechanical aptitude and understanding of sheet metal layout and fabrication.


• Drafting experience is a plus.


• Excellent communication skills—able to collaborate across departments and present ideas clearly.


• Must possess sufficient interpersonal skills to effectively interact with internal customers inside the department and the Company.


• Must be able to work under stress and handle multiple priorities.


• Have the ability to perform mathematical calculations related to job requirements.


• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook).


• High attention to detail and a commitment to quality and accuracy.


• Ability to interpret technical drawings and translate them into actionable nesting plans.

What We Offer

Robinson Fans provides a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Quarterly production bonuses


• Medical, dental, vision, and prescription coverage


• Many voluntary benefit options


• Life and disability insurance


• 401(k) with strong company match


• Annual profit sharing


• Paid vacation, 10 paid holidays, and parental leave


• Tuition reimbursement and professional development support

 

 

Robinson Fans, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, national origin, citizenship, age, religion, marital status, military service, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, or any other characteristic or trait protected by federal, state, or local law.