PLASMA OPERATOR in Polkton, North Carolina at Southern Fabricators

Job Title: Plasma Operator
Location: Polkton, NC
Department: Manufacturing / Production
Reports To: Production Supervisor / Department Manager
Employment Type: Full-Time

The Plasma Operator is responsible for operating plasma cutting equipment to produce accurate, high-quality metal components according to engineering drawings and production specifications. This position involves setting up and monitoring plasma cutting machines, preparing materials, adjusting cutting parameters, and inspecting finished parts to ensure they meet company quality standards. The Plasma Operator must demonstrate strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a commitment to workplace safety.

This role requires the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced manufacturing environment while maintaining consistent production quality. By ensuring accurate cutting operations, proper equipment maintenance, and efficient material handling, the Plasma Operator plays an essential role in supporting production goals and overall manufacturing operations.

• Set up, operate, and monitor plasma cutting machines to cut metal components according to job specifications.

• Read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and work orders to determine cutting requirements.

• Adjust machine settings, including cutting speed, amperage, and other parameters, to achieve accurate and consistent cuts.

• Load, position, and secure metal materials onto cutting tables using appropriate material handling equipment.

• Use precision measuring tools, including tape measures and calipers, to inspect finished parts and verify dimensions.

• Inspect cut components for quality defects, including rough edges, incorrect dimensions, and incomplete cuts.

• Remove slag, burrs, and other imperfections from cut materials as needed.

• Perform routine equipment inspections, cleaning, and basic maintenance to ensure optimal machine performance.

• Identify and report equipment malfunctions, material inconsistencies, and quality concerns to the supervisor.

• Follow all company safety policies and procedures, including proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and safe operation of cutting equipment.

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.

• Collaborate with supervisors and production team members to meet production schedules and quality standards.

• Previous experience operating plasma cutting equipment in a manufacturing or metal fabrication environment preferred.

• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and work orders.

• Familiarity with plasma cutting processes, machine settings, and metalworking equipment.

• Ability to accurately use tape measures, calipers, and other measuring instruments.

• Strong mechanical aptitude and basic troubleshooting skills.

• Understanding of workplace safety procedures and proper handling of metal materials.

• Ability to follow instructions and work efficiently with minimal supervision.

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality components.

• Physical ability to stand, bend, reach, and perform repetitive tasks throughout the shift.

• Ability to lift up to 100 lbs.

• Strong work ethic, reliability, and ability to work effectively in a team environment.

• Experience working in a metal fabrication or manufacturing environment.

• Familiarity with CNC plasma cutting systems and computerized machine controls.

• Experience operating forklifts, overhead cranes, or other material handling equipment.

• Knowledge of metal types, thicknesses, and appropriate cutting techniques.

Strong mechanical aptitude, blueprint reading, and precision measuring skills are essential for operating plasma cutting equipment accurately and efficiently. Knowledge of plasma cutting processes, machine settings, and material handling procedures ensures metal components are produced according to specifications and quality standards. Basic troubleshooting and equipment maintenance skills help minimize downtime and maintain consistent production performance. Attention to detail, effective communication, teamwork, and adherence to safety procedures contribute to a productive, organized, and safe manufacturing environment.

This position is not limited to the duties listed above. The supervisor may assign additional tasks as needed to support production and operational requirements.