The Laser Technician is responsible for operating and maintaining a variety of laser cutting machines in a manufacturing environment. This role ensures precise cutting of materials according to specifications while maintaining high standards of cut quality, efficiency, and safety. The Laser Operator may assist with basic programming, nesting, and optimization of cutting processes to improve productivity and reduce material waste.

WHY GRIP-TITE MANUFACTURING CO.?

Grip-Tite Manufacturing Co. offers a challenging environment, competitive benefits, and a culture that promotes growth, along with celebrating success. Here at Grip-Tite we realize that our greatest assets are our employees, and we are committed to developing and promoting our talented and dedicated team members to support our future leadership needs.

Grip-Tite is over 100 years young, and we are proud to say that all our products are made with American steel right here in the USA.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Set-up and operate CNC laser cutting equipment to process steel.
• Load and unload raw materials onto laser tables using forklifts or overhead cranes as required.
• Interpret cut files, and work orders to ensure accurate production.
• Monitor cut quality, edge finish, and dimensional accuracy throughout the production run.
• Adjust machine paraments to maintain optional cutting performance.
• Perform first-piece inspections and in-process quality checks.
• Remove cut parts, sort, label, and stage materials for downstream operations.
• Safely change and monitor oxygen and nitrogen tanks used for laser assist gases.
• Inspect gas lines and connections for leaks and safety concerns.
• Performs routine cleaning and preventative maintenance on equipment.
• Maintains accurate production records and material traceability.
• Follow all safety procedures related to high pressure gases, laser equipment, and material handling and PPE usage.
• Responsible for reporting equipment issues or material shortages to manager, or lead personnel.
• Maintains equipment and work areas. Keeps area(s) clean and free of safety hazards.
• Must be able to fill out required paperwork completely and accurately.
• Must have a positive attitude and holds oneself accountable to work as one team to ensure Grip-Tite's overall success.
• Other job duties will be required. Any employee who is trained in the laser area may be assigned to work in another area or become cross-trained to work in another area as business needs require.

SKILLS & EXPERIENCE:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• A year or more of CNC laser or metal cutting experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Ability to read work orders and prints.
• Experience operating forklifts or overhead cranes (or ability to become certified).
• Strong attention to detail and willingness to learn.
• Ability to lift and move materials up to required weight limits.
• Commitment to workplace safety.
• Familiarity with nesting software or CNC programming basics preferred.
• Previous experience in a manufacturing or fabrication environment preferred.
• Familiarity with measuring tools (tape measure, calipers, etc.) preferred.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Manufacturing / fabrication shop setting.
• Exposure to heat, sparks, noise, metal fumes, and dust.
• Requires use of PPE such as gloves, hearing protection, safety glasses, safety shoes, weld helmet as needed, and other protective clothing.
• Standing for extended periods of time and performing repetitive tasks.
• Regular exposure to changing temperatures (hot, cold, humid).
• The noise level in the work environment can be loud; vibration levels are moderate to loud.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENT:

• Manual dexterity for welding and tool operation.
• Ability to lift, push, or pull material as needed.
• This position is active and requires standing, walking, bending, kneeling, stooping, crouching all day with the ability to be mobile throughout required work areas.
• This position requires the use of repetitive motion – using hand and power tools.
• The employee may frequently lift and/or move items up to 55 lbs. on a regular basis and up to 75 lbs. on occasion.

PRE-EMPLOYMENT TESTING:

External hiring into this position is contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment, post-offer drug screen as well as a background check.

Grip-Tite Manufacturing is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Grip-Tite Manufacturing is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regards to, among other things, race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, status as a protected veteran, or status as a qualified individual with disability.