Also called: Laser Operator, Laser Engraver
Runs industrial lasers that cut and engrave metal, wood, plastic, and glass.
You load sheets of steel into a laser cutter, set power and speed, and watch a bright beam slice out parts in seconds. You check dimensions, swap lenses and nozzles, and keep the machine running. Some operators start their own engraving businesses making signs and custom gifts.
Based on computer numerically controlled tool operators.
Approximate: anchored on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for a broader job group.
High school diploma, about 0 years after high school. High school diploma; on-the-job training or a short CNC/laser certificate.
Ways in: On-the-job training, Certification, Trade school. Training cost: Get paid while you train.
Majors to look at: CNC/Machining Technology (trade school), Manufacturing Technology.
Growing slowly (about 1% over 10 years).
Medium risk in 5 years, high in 10. Auto-loading laser cells and AI nesting software let one operator run many machines; fewer operator jobs.
Age 18+. One way to start: Apply to fabrication and sign shops for laser operator trainee jobs
Classes: Geometry, Manufacturing CTE, Computer-aided design.
Official data: O*NET occupation 51-9161.
Career Universe is an early version. Pay, training and AI-risk figures are estimates to start your own research, not verified facts. The research was written with AI research assistants, checked by validation scripts and spot-checked by hand. Check anything important with schools, employers and official sources. How the numbers work.