Laser Cutting Machine Operator

Position Title: Laser Cutting Operator

Department : Production / Fabrication

Reporting To : Production Supervisor / Shop Floor Manager

Job Summary

The Laser Cutting Operator is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining CNC laser cutting machines to produce high-quality components as per engineering drawings and production requirements. The operator ensures accurate cutting, optimum machine performance, material utilization, and adherence to quality and safety standards.

Key Responsibilities: Machine Operation

Operate CNC Laser Cutting Machines (Fiber Laser/CO₂ Laser) as per production schedules.

Load and unload raw materials such as MS, SS, Aluminum, and other metal sheets.

Set machine parameters including cutting speed, power, gas pressure, and focus settings.

Start, monitor, and control cutting operations to achieve required quality and productivity.

Perform machine setup and changeovers for different jobs.

Production Activities

Read and interpret engineering drawings, nesting layouts, and work orders.

Verify material specifications, dimensions, and thickness before processing.

Ensure correct program selection and execution.

Optimize material utilization and minimize scrap generation.

Maintain production records and job completion reports.

Quality Control

Inspect cut components for dimensional accuracy, edge quality, burrs, and defects.

Use measuring instruments such as Vernier Calipers, Micrometers, and Measuring Tapes.

Segregate non-conforming products and report quality issues immediately.

Ensure compliance with customer specifications and quality standards.

Machine Maintenance

Perform daily machine cleaning and preventive maintenance activities.

Check laser optics, nozzles, lenses, filters, gas supply systems, and lubrication points.

Report machine breakdowns and coordinate with maintenance personnel.

Maintain machine logbooks and maintenance records.

Safety & Housekeeping

Follow all safety procedures and PPE requirements.

Ensure safe handling of sheets and finished components.

Maintain cleanliness and organization of the work area.

Comply with company safety policies and 5S practices.

Required Skills

Knowledge of CNC Laser Cutting Machines.

Ability to read fabrication and engineering drawings.

Understanding of sheet metal fabrication processes.

Knowledge of different materials (MS, SS, Aluminum, Copper, etc.).

Familiarity with measuring instruments and quality inspection methods.

Basic computer knowledge for machine operation and program handling.

Problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.

Qualifications

ITI / Diploma in Mechanical Engineering, Production Engineering, or equivalent.

Certification in CNC Machine Operation is preferred.

Experience

Junior Operator: 1–3 years of experience in laser cutting operations.

Senior Operator: 3–8 years of experience in CNC Fiber Laser Cutting Machines.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

Production target achievement.

Cutting accuracy and quality.

Material utilization efficiency.

Machine uptime and productivity.

Reduction in rejection and rework.

Compliance with safety procedures.

Working Conditions

Shop floor/manufacturing environment.

Standing for extended periods.

Handling metal sheets and fabricated components.

Rotational shifts as per production requirements.