CNC Cutting Table Operator

Position Summary

The Steel Plasma / Laser Cutting Table Operator is responsible for safely and accurately operating CNC plasma and/or laser cutting equipment to produce steel parts from approved cutting files and production drawings. This position is responsible for setting up the cutting table, loading and positioning material, monitoring the cutting process, performing quality checks, and ensuring finished parts are properly identified and organized for the next stage of production.

The ideal candidate is mechanically inclined, detail-oriented, comfortable working with CNC equipment, and able to identify and correct basic cutting or machine issues.

Essential Responsibilities

• Operate CNC plasma and/or laser cutting tables to cut structural steel components.

• Review cutting files, shop drawings, nesting layouts, and production requirements before starting a job.

• Verify material type, thickness, size, grade, and quantity before loading the cutting table.

• Safely load and position steel plate, sheet, and other materials using appropriate lifting equipment.

• Set up the cutting table and verify proper machine settings before production.

• Select and install appropriate consumables, nozzles, electrodes, lenses, and other machine components as required.

• Verify torch/nozzle alignment, material height, machine zero points, and other setup requirements.

• Monitor the cutting process to ensure consistent cut quality and machine performance.

• Identify issues such as excessive slag, poor cut quality, incorrect dimensions, torch height problems, consumable wear, or machine alarms.

• Make appropriate adjustments to machine settings when necessary.

• Perform dimensional and visual inspections of completed parts.

• Verify part identification, piece marks, quantities, and material traceability.

• Properly sort and organize cut parts for downstream fabrication, fitting, or assembly.

• Remove slag, dross, sharp edges, and other cutting remnants as required.

• Operate overhead cranes and forklifts for loading and unloading the table.

• Maintain cutting tables, work areas, consumables, and equipment in a clean and organized condition.

• Perform routine machine maintenance and notify supervision of equipment problems requiring repair.

• Follow established nesting, cutting, quality-control, and material-handling procedures.

• Follow all company safety policies and OSHA requirements.

• Properly use required PPE and maintain a safe work environment.

• Communicate production issues, material shortages, machine problems, and quality concerns to the appropriate supervisor.

• Complete production work according to established schedules and priorities.