Laser Operator

Purpose/Summary:

 A Laser Operator performs duties necessary to set up and operate laser cutting equipment to cut and process material according to customer specifications and blueprints. In addition to preparing orders according to specifications, a laser operator is responsible for proper machine set-up, communication with proceeding shifts, and the safe operation and handling of materials and equipment. 

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Work with parts and material either by moving by hand or when necessary, using jib or overhead crane and/or forklift.
• Set up and operate laser cutting machines to cut steel and other materials according to blueprints and customer specifications. 
• Load and unload raw materials onto the machine and remove the finished parts.
• Read and interpret blueprints, work orders, and nesting layouts to determine job requirements.
• Monitor machine operation to ensure proper cutting quality and efficiency.
• Inspect finished parts to ensure compliance with customer specifications using appropriate measuring tools. 
• Complete inspection reports after verifying dimensions and quality of finished parts.
• Perform routine machine maintenance including cleaning lenses, removing slag, and maintaining work area. 
• Communicate effectively with team members and proceeding shifts regarding job status and any issues.
• Complete assigned duties in accordance with safety policies and practices. This includes regard for individual safety, the safety of other employees, and the safe use of equipment in the workplace. 
• Wear approved personal protective equipment such as safety shoes, gloves, and safety glasses.
• Perform other duties as needed given by the supervisor, lead person, or management. 

  Working Conditions:

 Working conditions may consist of loud noise, repetitive motions, airborne particles such as metal dust, chips, and fumes and exposure to bright light and moving machinery. Physical requirements include continual standing, walking, lifting, twisting with periodic bending, climbing, stooping, and crouching. 

Knowledge, Abilities, Skills:

• A minimum of one (1) year’s previous laser cutting or CNC machine operation experience in an industrial atmosphere is preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and work orders. 
• Ability to read and use measuring tools such as tape measures, calipers, angle gauges, and micrometers.
• Knowledge of laser cutting equipment, materials, and cutting processes.
• Basic understanding of CNC controls and nesting programs is preferred.
• Ability to safely operate overhead cranes and forklifts.
• Ability to perform math including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of fractions as well as converting fractions to decimals or vice versa.
• Ability to lift and move up to seventy-five pounds, as well as lift and move heavier objects with the assistance of cranes, forklifts, or another employee.
• Knowledge of general shop procedures and rules including safety precautions.
• Ability and willingness to cooperate with co-workers and work as part of a production team.

JSA (Job Safety Analysis) Laser Machine Operator

 Laser Machine Operators will work in an indoor shop environment with moderate to high noise levels, bright light exposure and moving machinery. They will need to be able to lift, stand, bend, grasp, reach, and twist while standing for extended periods of time. 

 Risk factors for this job may include repetitive motions, awkward postures, static postures and moving heavy objects.

 Main hazards include hands and fingers due to moving parts and sharp edges of cut material, as well as eye hazards from bright light exposure. Additional hazards may include foot, body, body, fall, and noise hazards, along with risks from improper lifting, tripping over materials, and mishandling equipment. 

 Preventive measures: using the proper PPE (safety glasses, shoes, hearing protection, etc.), using the right technique when moving/lifting objects, and being aware of surroundings and ensuring machines are operated safely and according to procedures.