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 components
• Select appropriate cutting programs, fixtures, and tooling based on part specifications and production requirements
• Adjust and maintain laser beam focal points, alignment, and cutting parameters to ensure optimal performance and quality
• Perform 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 shots
• Preventative maintenance checks
• Conduct minor troubleshooting and adjustments to maintain equipment at peak operating performance
• Monitor machine performance and document operational metrics
Quality Assurance & Inspection
• Perform dimensional inspections using appropriate measuring tools to ensure parts meet specifications
• Identify, troubleshoot, and report defective materials or process issues to Team Lead or Supervisor
• Ensure all work meets quality standards and engineering specifications
Material Handling & Production Support
• Prepare and stage raw materials for production
• Safely load and unload materials using appropriate equipment
• Support 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 operations
• Identify opportunities to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and eliminate defects
• Partner 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 standards
• Adhere to all safety procedures and PPE requirements
• Ensure safe operation of all machinery and equipment at all times
• Perform 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