CNC Laser Operator

Job Description Job Description

CNC Laser Operator - El Cajon

Job Description

The CNC Laser Operator sets up and operates 5-axis CNC laser cutting equipment to produce precision components from various metal alloys. This role requires strong knowledge of CNC machines, familiarity with NC programming, and the ability to interpret engineering drawings and blueprints. The position involves moderate physical activity, including lifting, bending, and standing for extended periods, while maintaining high standards of accuracy and quality.

Open Shifts

• First shift schedule 6:00 AM to 4:30 PM (Mon-Thurs)
• Second shift schedule 4:00 PM to 2:30 AM(Mon-Thurs)
• Weekend schedule , 5:00 AM to 5:30 PM(Fri-Sun)

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate 5-axis CNC laser cutting machines to produce parts according to engineering drawings and blueprints.
• Install and adjust fixtures, vises, rotary tables, and related workholding devices to support accurate cutting operations.
• Pick up part and fixture locations to establish cutting planes and ensure proper alignment of workpieces.
• Interpret dimensions and tolerances in both metric and inch systems to meet blueprint requirements.
• Measure and inspect fabricated parts using appropriate precision measuring tools to verify conformance to specifications.
• Identify and communicate machine, process, and quality issues promptly to appropriate personnel.
• Perform mathematical and trigonometric calculations, including solving right triangles, to support setup and cutting operations.
• Work on repetitive production runs, including making parts in batches and managing multiple setups per day as required.
• Perform all other duties as assigned or directed to support production and quality objectives.
• Be willing to work at assigned jobs within or outside the machine shop department as operational needs require.

Essential Skills

• Minimum of three (3) years of experience setting up and operating 5-axis CNC laser machines.
• Strong knowledge of CNC machines and NC programming concepts related to laser cutting.
• Hands-on experience working with metal alloys in a machining or fabrication environment.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, dimensions, and tolerances in both metric and inch units.
• Proficiency in using precision measuring tools, including dial calipers, micrometers, height gauges, precision protractors, and indicators.
• Working knowledge of mathematical calculations and trigonometry, including the ability to solve right triangles.
• Familiarity with multi-axis operations, including C axis, D axis, A axis, B axis, and rotary table setups.
• Ability to perform moderate physical tasks, including lifting, bending, and standing for extended periods during the shift.
• Capability to recognize and clearly communicate machine and quality issues as they arise.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience operating 5-axis CNC laser systems from manufacturers such as Mazak or similar platforms.
• Background in a machine shop environment with exposure to fixtures, vises, and rotary table setups.
• Comfort working with repetitive production runs and managing multiple setups per day.
• Flexibility to perform work in different areas of the machine shop or related departments as needed.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to maintaining quality standards throughout the production process.
• Effective communication skills to collaborate with team members and support continuous improvement.

Why Work Here?

You join a production environment that values precision craftsmanship, consistent quality, and professional growth. The organization offers structured benefits and retirement options, along with the stability of a steady weekend shift schedule. You work with modern CNC laser technology in a setting that encourages skill development, cross-training, and long-term career progression.

Work Environment

This role is based on-site in El Cajon, CA. We have multiple open shifts, as follows -

• First shift schedule 6:00 AM to 4:30 PM (Mon-Thurs)
• Second shift schedule 4:00 PM to 2:30 AM(Mon-Thurs)
• Weekend schedule , 5:00 AM to 5:30 PM(Fri-Sun)

You will work primarily in a machine shop environment with 5-axis CNC laser equipment, fixtures, vises, rotary tables, and precision measuring tools. The work often involves repetitive production runs, typically producing parts in batches of 20 to 30 pieces, with approximately two to three different setups per day, depending on production needs. The position requires standing for most of the shift, along with regular lifting, bending, and handling of metal components in a typical industrial shop setting.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of El Cajon, CA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $26.00 - $38.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in El Cajon,CA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 3, 2026.

About Aerotek

Aerotek Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: 1-888-AEROTEK.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

Company Description We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry - from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies' construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow. Company Description We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry - from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies' construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.