Laser Technical Specialist

JOB SPECIFICATION: Laser Technical Specialist

DEPARTMENT: Engineering / Operations 

JOB PURPOSE:

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an Laser Technical Specialist to join a well-established manufacturing organisation. This hands-on technical role will focus on laser cutting operations, process optimisation, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement within a fast-paced production environment.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:

Laser Manufacturing Operations

• Provide technical support and expertise for all laser cutting operations.
• Develop, optimise, and maintain laser cutting programmes and nesting strategies.
• Ensure efficient machine utilisation, material yield, and process performance.
• Support new product introduction activities, including process development and validation.
• Monitor production performance and identify opportunities for productivity improvements.
• Ensure compliance with engineering drawings, customer specifications, and quality requirements.
• Support capacity planning and manufacturing capability development activities.
• Collaborate with Production and Quality teams to improve throughput, reduce waste, and enhance operational performance.
• Carry out hands-on machine set-up, first-off trials, and process prove-outs for new and existing products.
• Operate laser cutting equipment as required to validate programmes, optimise cutting parameters, and support production requirements.
• Conduct on-machine troubleshooting and process adjustments to resolve quality, productivity, or technical issues in real time.
• Work directly on the shop floor with operators to identify and implement process improvements and best practices.
• Support production during peak periods by providing practical operational expertise and hands-on assistance where required.

Process Improvement & Technical Support

• Lead continuous improvement initiatives within laser processing operations.
• Optimise cutting parameters to improve quality, speed, and cost efficiency.
• Investigate technical issues and perform root cause analysis to implement corrective actions.
• Develop standard operating procedures and process documentation.
• Support engineering change management activities.
• Evaluate new technologies and equipment upgrades to improve manufacturing capability.
• Provide technical guidance on material selection and manufacturability.
• Lead and participate in practical laser cutting trials, material evaluations, and process development activities to improve manufacturing performance.
• Validate process improvements through hands-on testing and measurement, ensuring repeatability and production readiness.

Equipment & Maintenance Support

• Liaise with Maintenance teams to maximise equipment reliability and performance.
• Support preventative maintenance planning and troubleshooting activities.
• Work with equipment suppliers and service providers on machine upgrades and technical issues.
• Assist in equipment validation and commissioning activities.
• Support the implementation of best practices for machine care and operational efficiency.
• Perform routine machine calibrations, cutting parameter verification, and operational checks to maintain optimum performance.
• Support fault finding activities directly on equipment alongside Maintenance and equipment suppliers.

Training & Development

• Train and support operators in laser processing techniques, programming, and best practices.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement, quality, and technical excellence.
• Share technical knowledge and support cross-functional team development.

KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCE

• Technical qualifications in Engineering, Manufacturing, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum 3-5 years’ experience in laser cutting, sheet metal fabrication, precision engineering, or a related manufacturing environment.
• Strong knowledge of laser cutting technology and associated manufacturing processes.
• Experience with CNC programming, nesting software, and CAD/CAM systems.
• Proven experience in process optimisation and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings and technical specifications.
• Experience troubleshooting manufacturing and production issues.
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and structured problem-solving methodologies.
• Experience within a precision engineering or metal fabrication environment would be advantageous.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and manufacturing software systems.
• Demonstrated hands-on experience setting up, operating, and troubleshooting industrial laser cutting equipment.
• Experience optimising laser cutting parameters across a range of materials, thicknesses, and customer requirements.

KEY COMPETENCIES

• Strong technical expertise in laser cutting and manufacturing processes.
• Excellent analytical and critical thinking skills.
• Continuous improvement mindset.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Effective communication and influencing skills.
• Ability to train, coach, and support operational teams.
• Strong planning and organisational skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively across departments.
• Purpose driven with a focus on operational excellence.
• Strong practical, hands-on approach with the ability to combine technical expertise and shop floor execution.
• Comfortable working in a manufacturing environment with significant time spent supporting production operations directly.