Machine Operator

This role operates a computerized plasma burn table to cut steel sheets to precise specifications. The machine operator loads materials, sets up the equipment according to work orders and blueprints, programs and adjusts CNC parameters, and inspects finished parts to ensure accuracy and quality. Computers are an essential part of this position, and the operator plays a critical role in providing exact materials for the fabrication department.

• Operate a computerized plasma burn table to cut steel sheets according to work orders, blueprint templates, and layout requirements.
• Load and secure steel materials onto the burn table, ensuring proper setup and alignment before cutting begins.
• Program, run, and adjust CNC controls, including importing and working with DXF files, to produce accurate cuts and part shapes.
• Interpret and follow blueprints, drawings, and specifications to determine cutting paths, dimensions, and tolerances.
• Inspect parts during and after cutting to verify quality, accuracy, and adherence to specifications, making edits or adjustments as needed.
• Coordinate with fabrication and production teams to ensure timely and efficient material output for downstream processes.
• Manage steel inventory related to the burn table, including tracking material usage and working efficiently with layout to minimize waste.
• Use cranes and other lifting equipment safely to move steel plates and finished parts around the work area.
• Apply critical thinking and if/then reasoning to troubleshoot cutting issues, optimize programs, and improve efficiency.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area around the plasma table and associated equipment.
• Perform basic maintenance checks on the machine and report any mechanical or programming issues promptly.
• Lift up to 50 lbs frequently throughout the day while handling materials and parts.
• Support overall fabrication operations by ensuring the department receives precise, easy-to-use materials.
• Carry out other duties as required to support production and fabrication needs.

• At least 2+ years of work experience in an industrial or fabrication setting, preferably 3–5 years.
• Hands-on machine operation experience, particularly with plasma tables and CNC equipment.
• Proficiency using computers as an integral part of daily machine operation and programming tasks.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and work orders accurately.
• Experience with plasma cutting processes and burn table operation.
• CNC programming and operation experience, including working with DXF files.
• Basic math skills for measurements, calculations, and layout work.
• Experience working with overhead cranes and lifting equipment in a fabrication environment.
• Knowledge of steel materials, including types, properties, and appropriate handling practices.
• Ability to manage inventory related to steel and cut parts while working efficiently with layout and product output.
• Strong attention to detail and quality-minded approach to producing precise parts.
• Critical thinking skills and an if/then mindset for problem-solving and process optimization.
• Ability to lift 50 lbs frequently throughout the day.
• Demonstrated ability to work efficiently and maintain consistent productivity in a fabrication setting.

• Experience as a machine operator in an industrial environment.
• Background in welding or fabrication (such as structural welding, stick welding, MIG welding, and fitting) is beneficial.
• Familiarity with burn tables, plasma cutting, and CNC processes.
• Comfort working with computerized systems and digital files (including DXF) for programming cuts.
• Strong layout skills for maximizing material usage and minimizing scrap.
• Quality-focused mindset with the ability to spot and correct errors quickly.
• Stable work history with demonstrated long-term commitment to previous roles.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with fabrication and production teams.

Employees benefit from clear opportunities for advancement and the ability to move into different departments as their skills grow. The organization offers a 401(k) plan with a 3% match to support long-term financial security, weekly pay for consistent income, and a 50% discount on gym membership at Defined Fitness to promote health and wellness. Team members enjoy a supportive culture with quarterly BBQ events that foster camaraderie and recognition.

This role follows a weekend shift schedule of Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 6:00 AM to 6:30 PM. The work takes place in a heavy industrial fabrication environment focused on manufacturing water and fuel tanks, coal haulers, bottom-dump trailers, and equipment transports used in construction and mining applications worldwide. The setting involves working around plasma burn tables, CNC equipment, steel materials, and overhead cranes, with lifting equipment available to assist with material handling. The environment is production-oriented, safety-conscious, and requires appropriate industrial work attire suitable for fabrication and machine operation.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Albuquerque, NM.

The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $28.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Albuquerque,NM.

This position is anticipated to close on Oct 2, 2026.

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.