Plasma Operator

At TQ Metal Works we're always looking for skilled and motivated individuals to join our growing team. Whether you're experienced in fabrication, engineering, or customer service, we offer a dynamic work environment with opportunities for growth.

About the role:

The Plasma Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and tending plasma cutting equipment to cut, bevel, and shape metal parts per blueprint or work order. The operator must ensure quality, maintain safety standards, and support overall shop productivity and maintenance functions. This position will be a evening shift, 3 PM to 11 PM.

Roles/Tasks of the Position:

• Review blueprints, part drawings, or written instructions to understand part geometry, tolerances, cut sequences, and required finish.
• Set up and calibrate the plasma cutting machine (CNC plasma table), including torch height, cutting speeds, gas pressures, lead-ins, pierce settings, etc.
• Load raw material onto the cutting table, secure parts, and correctly orient material.
• Run test cuts or pierce-checks to validate settings before full production runs.
• Monitor equipment during operation, adjusting parameters (speed, torch height, gas mix) to maintain cut quality, kerf, and tolerance.
• Inspect cut parts (dimensions, edge quality, bevels) and confirm compliance with specifications using measuring tools (calipers, micrometers, gauges).
• Remove cut parts and scrap, sort, label, and stage for downstream processes (welding, fabrication, finishing).
• Perform routine maintenance and cleaning of the plasma table, torch, leads, and ancillary equipment (air/gas lines, filters, tables, water tables) to ensure optimal operation.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
• Report machine faults, consumable wear, or quality issues to supervision promptly.
• Collaborate with other shop staff to assist with workflow, problem solving, and continuous improvement.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Abilities:

• Ability to read, understand, and interpret blueprints, shop drawings, and specifications.
• Competence in setting up and adjusting plasma cutting parameters and knowing effects of speed, gas pressure, pierce settings, etc.
• Proficiency using measurement tools (calipers, micrometers, protractors, gauges) to verify tolerances.
• Mechanical aptitude: ability to troubleshoot issues with equipment, understand wear parts (nozzles, electrodes, torch shields), and assist with preventive maintenance.
• Basic computer skills, particularly for CAM software, CNC interfaces, or manufacturing systems.
• Strong attention to detail and quality orientation.
• Good communication skills, ability to work collaboratively in a small shop environment.
• Able to work with minimal supervision and exercise judgment in adjusting processes to maintain output.
• Willingness to follow and enforce safety protocols strictly (PPE, cutting safety, gas handling, etc.).

Education/Experience:

• High School Diploma or GED
• Prior experience (1-3 years preferred) operating plasma cutting equipment, ideally in a fabrication or welding environment.
• Experience with CNC plasma tables

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described below are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities or medical restrictions to perform the essential functions.

• Working in hot, dusty and noisy environments.
• Lifting of up to 50 pounds, bending, climbing (stairs and structures), and stooping.
• Standing for extended periods (most of the shift).
• Use of hands and fingers for manipulation of parts, fixtures, tools, and controls.
• Ability to read fine detail (e.g. measuring instruments, computer screens).
• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced shop environment.

Prerequisites/Requirements:

• Negative 10 panel urinalysis and breath alcohol test.
• Valid Driver's License and Proof of U.S. Citizenship.
• Background check.