Position Summary American Power Innovations (API) is seeking a skilled, detail-oriented Fiber Laser Operator to join our growing manufacturing team. This position sets up, operates, and maintains CNC fiber laser cutting equipment to produce high-quality metal components according to engineering drawings, production schedules, and company quality standards. The ideal candidate has experience operating CNC laser cutting equipment, reading blueprints, and working with a variety of metals, and is committed to maintaining a safe and efficient manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Set up and operate CNC fiber laser cutting machines to cut sheet metal and other materials to production specifications.
- Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, work orders, and cutting instructions.
- Load and unload raw materials, including steel, stainless steel, and aluminum.
- Select and verify cutting programs, machine settings, and material specifications.
- Monitor machine operations to ensure accurate cuts, proper tolerances, and consistent quality.
- Inspect finished parts using measuring tools such as calipers, micrometers, and tape measures.
- Identify and troubleshoot cutting issues, material defects, and equipment malfunctions.
- Perform routine machine maintenance, cleaning, and inspections to keep equipment running at peak performance.
- Maintain proper material identification, inventory organization, and scrap control.
- Work with engineering, quality control, and production teams to resolve manufacturing issues.
- Meet daily production goals while upholding high standards for safety and quality.
- Follow all company safety procedures, including proper PPE use, machine guarding, and laser safety requirements.
- Keep the work area clean, organized, and safe in accordance with 5S principles.
- Perform other manufacturing duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications
- Experience operating CNC laser cutting machines or similar manufacturing equipment.
- Experience working in a metal fabrication or industrial manufacturing environment.
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and measurements.
- Basic understanding of CNC machine operations and manufacturing processes.
- Familiarity with precision measuring instruments.
- Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
- Ability to follow written and verbal instructions accurately.
- Strong attention to detail, quality, and safety.
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced production environment.
Preferred Qualifications
- 5 years of experience operating CNC laser cutting machines.
- Experience operating fiber laser cutting systems such as Trumpf, Amada, Bystronic, Mazak, or similar.
- Knowledge of laser cutting parameters, including cutting speed, power, gas pressure, and material thickness.
- Experience with CNC programming, nesting software, or CAD/CAM systems.
- Familiarity with sheet metal fabrication processes, including bending, punching, and welding.
- Experience operating forklifts, overhead cranes, or other material-handling equipment.
- Knowledge of preventive maintenance procedures for CNC laser equipment.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the workday.
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds, using assistance or lifting equipment when necessary.
- Ability to bend, stoop, reach, and perform repetitive movements.
- Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with exposure to noise, machinery, and varying temperatures.
- Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).
What We Offer At American Power Innovations, we value our employees and are committed to providing a supportive, team-oriented workplace with opportunities for professional growth. Our compensation and benefits package includes:
- Competitive pay based on experience and qualifications
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Paid time off (PTO) and paid sick leave
- Paid holidays and floating holidays
- 401(k) retirement plan with company match
- Opportunities for career development and advancement
- A growing manufacturing environment focused on innovation, quality, and teamwork
