Laser Operator
Function: Manufacturing Production
Location: Ilkley (Fabrication Department)
Type: Full-Time | Permanent
Shifts: 6am-2.15pm / 8am-4pm
Rate: £14.60p/h-£17.30p/h DOE
Role Summary
The Laser Operator is responsible for processing sheet metal into finished, conforming parts while ensuring all stock control procedures are followed. The role supports production by delivering accurate cutting, quality inspection, and efficient material handling.
Key Responsibilities
- Import required programs into the laser cutting machine.
- Create production plans detailing program numbers and required sheet quantities.
- Locate appropriate sheet metal and carry out general quality inspections before use.
- Set up the laser for the correct cutting operation.
- Load material, unload finished parts, and remove waste from the laser.
- Quality-check finished components to ensure they meet required standards.
- Correct any non-conforming parts where feasible.
- Identify parts, book them into stock management software, and store them according to management instructions.
- Maintain housekeeping standards and complete daily asset care on the laser.
- Ensure all work meets production timescales.
- Safely move materials and parts using appropriate lifting tools, overhead cranes, and FLTs.
- Follow company safe systems of work and standard operating procedures.
- Carry out any other duties appropriate to the role and grade, as required by the business.
Qualifications, Knowledge & Experience
Essential:
- Minimum 2 years’ experience operating a laser or CNC punch.
- Ability and experience in setting up production plans for laser cutting.
- Experience operating overhead cranes and FLTs.
- Understanding of Health & Safety policies and safe ways of working.
- Understanding of quality requirements.
Personal Skills
- Strong attention to detail.
- Excellent hand–eye coordination.
- Ability to work to deadlines and meet production schedules.
- Able to work independently and as part of a team.
- Good verbal communication and written English.
- Ability to follow procedures, safe systems of work, and quality standards.
- Physically fit and able to stand for long periods and handle large sheet metal.
- Good IT skills.

ATA is committed to creating a diverse workforce and is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of age, disability, gender, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation