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1st Shift Machine Operator - Laser

Central Plains Steel
Wichita, KS Full Time
POSTED ON 7/22/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 11/18/2026
Location/Org Data : Logo:
Job Summary:

This job is in the Plant family (department), which includes positions responsible for performing the work of receiving, processing, storing, & distributing of metal. This includes specialized equipment operation and support functions that require a practical knowledge of the nature and operations of warehouse work with an emphasis on safety as well as the materials, facilities and methods employed by the Reliance Steel & Aluminum family of companies. The main responsibilities of this position are performing advanced production activities on variety of laser machines.


Note to Applicant:
The ideal candidate for any position at Central Plains Steel will understand the dynamics of a cohesive team and feel a responsibility to help create and support that culture. Individuals who are Humble, Hungry, and Smart: who want to be part of a team that continuously strives to provide the “Best-In-Class” service to both our internal and external customers by following our guiding principles of:


  • Respect for others

  • Integrity, both in our principles and the unity of our team

  • Excellence in everything we do

  • Honoring our commitments

Physical Requirements: Stand or Sit(Stationary position), Walk(Move, Traverse), Use hand/fingers to handle or feel (Operate, Activate, Use, Prepare, Inspect, Place, Detect, Position), Climb (stairs/ladders) or balance (Ascend/Descend, Work atop, Traverse), Stoop, kneel, crouch, or Crawl(Position self(to), Move), Talk/hear(Communicate, Detect, Converse with, Discern, Convey, Express oneself, Exchange information), See (Detect, Determine, Perceive, Identify, Recognize, Judge, Observe, Inspect, Estimate, Assess), Pushing or Pulling, Reaching, Repetitive Motion Function in the Job: Heavy work - Exerting up to 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Job Function:
  • Review and follow blueprints, work orders, tooling instructions or other written specifications.

  • Determine processing specifications such as materials, forms, sizes, surface conditions, material defects dimensions, tolerances, and operational sequences.

  • Ensure correct material for the job is used according to work orders.

  • Coordinates and executes material handling.

  • Set up laser cutting unit for safe operation by selecting appropriate nozzles, setting speeds, and feeds.

  • Position work pieces for processing (may operate a combination of different machines).

  • Operate laser machines during processing as required based on workload or business needs.

  • Adjust controls to set cutting speed, depth, and feed rates.

  • Measure and examine pieces using precision measuring instruments such as calipers, micrometers, scales, and squares to ensure conformance to work order specifications.

  • Perform “In Process” and “Finished Product” quality control inspections.

  • Remove scrap metal and clean equipment according to designated maintenance procedures.

  • Diagnose problems and makes necessary adjustments.

  • Report any irregularities to supervisor for direction.

  • Completes work order paperwork/documentation.

  • Move material from production areas to storage or other designated areas using forklift, side loader, or crane.

  • May mark identification on material/work pieces before processing.

  • Responsible for adhering to/ensuring compliance with applicable safety and quality standards.

  • All other duties and responsibilities assigned by management.

Required Skills:
    • Valid Driver’s License - required.

    • 0-5 years of relevant experience or any equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities - required.

    • Ability to show adequate manual dexterity, finger dexterity, arm-hand steadiness, and multilimbed coordination - required.

    • Ability to read and comprehend written instructions as applied to work situations - required.

    • Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form.

    • Basic measurement skills, including taking, converting, and/or using measurements of length, width, height, and weight to perform basic math computations correctly - required.

    • Basic arithmetic skills to calculate and convert decimals and fractions - required.

    • Ability to multi-task, prioritize, and manage time effectively - required.

    • Ability to make sound decisions based on a combination of factors including knowledge, experience, and judgment - required.

    • Ability to lift 100 pounds occasionally, 60 pounds repetitively - required.

    • Ability to stand for sustained periods of time - required.

    • Ability to push or pull 80 pounds of force - required.

    • Ability to develop and maintain good working relationships with supervisors, co-workers, internal customers and/or vendors - required.

    • Must be able to obtain a certification to operate all required motorized material handling and rigging equipment - required.

    • Basic computer proficiency and working knowledge of software applications - required.

    • Employees are subject to temperatures more than 100 degrees F and below 32 degrees F

    • Warehousing and material handling experience – preferred.

    • High School diploma/GED - preferred.

Salary.com Estimation for 1st Shift Machine Operator - Laser in Wichita, KS
$37,116 to $47,400
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