Laser Operator Team Member

Company Profile 80 years and countless innovations later, JCB is the world’s largest privately-owned manufacturer of construction and agricultural equipment. At 22 plants spanning four continents—and countries including the United States, the United Kingdom, India and Brazil—JCB manufactures a range of more than 300 products including Loadall telescopic handlers, backhoe loaders, excavators, wheel loaders, compact excavators, skid steer loaders, compact track loaders, Access aerial work platforms, rough terrain forklifts, and Fastrac tractors. JCB people are at the heart of our business and as a family-owned business we answer to our customers, not a group of shareholders. That freedom allows us to concentrate on developing the latest technologies and incorporating them into our equipment. We focus on what our customer needs on the jobsite – a machine that holds up in the toughest environment and increases their productivity. At JCB, we stand behind our products – and our name. Position Purpose The Laser Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining advanced laser cutting equipment to support the production of heavy-duty construction and industrial equipment at JCB North America. This role ensures precision cutting, quality output, and optimal machine performance while maintaining safety, efficiency, and adherence to production schedules. The ideal candidate will possess strong technical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a high-volume, fast-paced fabrication environment, supporting continuous improvement and operational excellence. Position Type Full Time, Non-Exempt Location Pooler, Georgia Benefits And Other Compensation JCB offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance; 401 (k) retirement plan; paid time off and paid holidays. Major Tasks, Responsibilities & Key Accountabilities Laser Operations & Machine Setup Set up, program, and operate CNC laser cutting equipment to perform precision cutting operations on metal componentsSelect appropriate cutting programs, fixtures, and tooling based on part specifications and production requirementsAdjust and maintain laser beam focal points, alignment, and cutting parameters to ensure optimal performance and qualityPerform machine setup and changeovers to support production schedules and minimize downtime Equipment Maintenance & Calibration Perform routine machine maintenance, including: Optic cleaning (lenses and mirrors)Tape shotsPreventative maintenance checksConduct minor troubleshooting and adjustments to maintain equipment at peak operating performanceMonitor machine performance and document operational metrics Quality Assurance & Inspection Perform dimensional inspections using appropriate measuring tools to ensure parts meet specificationsIdentify, troubleshoot, and report defective materials or process issues to Team Lead or SupervisorEnsure all work meets quality standards and engineering specifications Material Handling & Production Support Prepare and stage raw materials for productionSafely load and unload materials using appropriate equipmentSupport overall fabrication workflow to ensure continuous production and meet output targets Continuous Improvement & Problem Solving Apply problem-solving tools and lean manufacturing principles to improve laser cutting operationsIdentify opportunities to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and eliminate defectsPartner with fabrication, quality, and engineering teams to drive process improvements Safety & Housekeeping Maintain a clean and organized work area in accordance with 5S and safety standardsAdhere to all safety procedures and PPE requirementsEnsure safe operation of all machinery and equipment at all timesPerform other duties as assigned to support manufacturing operations Minimum Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent Certificate in Laser Technology or related field from an accredited technical school Minimum 2+ years of experience operating CNC laser cutting equipment 5+ years of experience working in a manufacturing or fabrication environment Ability to pass all pre-employment requirements (drug screen, background check, etc.) Preferred Qualifications Experience in heavy equipment or industrial manufacturing environments Familiarity with CNC programming and nesting software Experience working with structural steel, plate, or heavy-gauge materials Forklift certification (or ability to obtain) Knowledge, Skills, Abilities & Competencies Strong understanding of laser cutting processes, machine setup, and material properties Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, blueprints, and work instructions Proficiency in operating laser systems, press brakes, and fabrication equipment High attention to detail with a focus on precision and quality control Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills Ability to multi-task and adapt in a fast-paced environment while maintaining accuracy Effective communication and teamwork skills Flexibility to work overtime or varying shifts as required Must wear required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at all times Job Conditions Both office environment and occasionally manufacturing/factory environment.Subject to noise and temperature changes. Physical Requirements The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to: Must be able to work flexible schedule, including Friday - Sunday 6am -6pm Must be able to regularly lift and/or move up to 10lbs, frequently and/or move up to 35lbs, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50lbs.Must be able to perform continuous, repetitious physical activities. These activities may involve fine movements or large motions.Must be able to grasp/pinch small items, reach out and up, and turn wrist.Must be capable of keeping pace with current production speed.Must be able to push/pull with reasonable force.Must be able to perform the following requirements of bending, stooping, climbing, kneeling, and standing for extended periods of time.Must be able to work in multiple climates including hot/cold temperatures, and dusty environment. Equal Opportunity Employer JCB is an equal employment opportunity (EEO) employer in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. JCB complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment at every location where the company has facilities. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability statute, or any other characteristic protected under federal, state, and local laws. EEO EMPLOYER/VET/DISABLED. JCB Inc. is not currently hiring individuals for this position who now or in the future require sponsorship for employment visa status; however, as a global company, JCB offers many job opportunities outside of the U.S., which can be found through our website at https://www.jcb.com/en-gb/about/careers. Disclaimer: This job description is general in nature and is not designed to contain or to be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job.