Laser Operator

Experienced Laser Operator

Location: Van-Am Tool & Engineering | St. Joseph, MO

Pay: $24.00–$28.00 per hour, based on experience

Job Type: Full-Time

Build Your Career in Aerospace & Defense Manufacturing

Van-Am Tool & Engineering is looking for an experienced Laser Operator to join our manufacturing team in St. Joseph, Missouri. We are seeking a skilled, dependable individual who understands laser cutting operations, takes pride in producing quality parts, and can work efficiently in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

At Van-Am, you will work with modern manufacturing equipment to produce precision metal components for the aerospace, defense, and commercial industries. We offer competitive wages, a consistent work schedule, and opportunities to develop your skills and advance your career.

What You Will Do

• Set up and operate CNC laser cutting equipment to produce precision metal parts.
• Read and interpret blueprints, work orders, and production specifications.
• Adjust machine settings and cutting parameters to ensure quality and efficiency.
• Load and unload materials and monitor cutting operations.
• Inspect finished parts using appropriate measuring tools to verify accuracy.
• Troubleshoot equipment and cutting issues to minimize downtime and scrap.
• Perform routine equipment maintenance and maintain a clean, safe work area.
• Meet production expectations while maintaining high standards for quality and safety.

What We Are Looking For

• Previous experience operating CNC laser cutting equipment is required.
• Experience in sheet metal fabrication or precision metal manufacturing.
• Ability to read blueprints and use measuring instruments.
• Understanding of machine setup, material types, and cutting parameters.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to work independently, stay organized, and consistently meet production expectations.
• Dependable attendance and a commitment to workplace safety.

Experience operating Trumpf, Bystronic, Amada, Mazak, or similar industrial laser cutting equipment is a plus.

Pay & Benefits

• $24.00–$28.00 per hour, depending on qualifications and experience.
• Full-time employment with a consistent work schedule.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan.
• Paid time off and paid holidays.
• Employee referral bonus program.
• Opportunities for training and career advancement.

Established in 1981, Van-Am has grown into a leading Midwest provider of precision manufacturing solutions, serving the aerospace, defense, and commercial industries. Our capabilities include tooling, stamping, CNC machining, laser cutting, press brake forming, robotic welding, fabrication, powder coating, and wet paint. Van-Am also provides design and build services, supporting projects of varying sizes and complexity from concept through production.

Why Van-Am?

Van-Am Tool & Engineering is an established precision manufacturing company supporting the aerospace, defense, and commercial markets. Our employees manufacture components used in demanding applications where precision, quality, and reliability matter.

We value employees who bring experience, take ownership of their work, and want to be part of a team committed to continuous improvement.

If you are an experienced Laser Operator looking for competitive pay, stability, and an opportunity to put your skills to work, we encourage you to apply.

Due to applicable export control requirements, this position requires U.S. Person status as defined under ITAR. Van-Am Tool & Engineering is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

As a federal government contractor, Van-Am Tool & Engineering is required to maintain a drug-free workplace under the Drug-Free Workplace Act. As part of the hiring process, all candidates who receive a conditional job offer must undergo a pre-employment drug test, which includes testing for marijuana, regardless of state legalization.

Testing is conducted after a job offer is extended, and results are kept confidential. A positive result may impact the final offer of employment. Van-Am complies with all applicable Federal, State (including Missouri and Iowa), and DOT regulations, where relevant.

Van-Am is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.