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The differences between laser operators and machine operators can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. Additionally, a laser operator has an average salary of $34,813, which is higher than the $32,874 average annual salary of a machine operator.
The top three skills for a laser operator include laser cutting, calipers and laser machine. The most important skills for a machine operator are basic math, CNC, and math.
| Laser Operator | Machine Operator | |
| Yearly salary | $34,813 | $32,874 |
| Hourly rate | $16.74 | $15.80 |
| Growth rate | -8% | -6% |
| Number of jobs | 56,479 | 96,834 |
| Job satisfaction | - | 5 |
| Most common degree | High School Diploma, 42% | High School Diploma, 53% |
| Average age | 43 | 44 |
| Years of experience | 2 | - |
A Laser Operator is responsible for operating the machine and devices used for laser purposes. They do the engraving and cutting of the metal or plastic parts of the laser device. They set up and adjust the machine lens to meet the correct specification. They also ensure that there will be no issues before and after operating the laser device by routinely checking the equipment. They also need to monitor and do an inventory of instruments and tools required if there are operations or whenever they are required.
Machine operators are responsible for managing the machines assigned to them. They set up, install, operate, maintain, troubleshoot, and ensure quality output. Machine operators must know the inner workings of the machine such that they can easily address any problems that may arise. They must ensure that all components of the machine are working well. They perform maintenance routine checks to ensure that the machine is working at the most efficient capacity, is well-stocked with needed materials, and producing the best output. Machine operators are also responsible for ensuring the cleanliness and sanitation of the machine.
Laser operators and machine operators have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Laser Operator | Machine Operator | |
| Average salary | $34,813 | $32,874 |
| Salary range | Between $27,000 And $44,000 | Between $26,000 And $40,000 |
| Highest paying City | Oregon City, OR | Minneapolis, MN |
| Highest paying state | Oregon | Minnesota |
| Best paying company | Kloeckner Metals | BD |
| Best paying industry | Technology | Automotive |
There are a few differences between a laser operator and a machine operator in terms of educational background:
| Laser Operator | Machine Operator | |
| Most common degree | High School Diploma, 42% | High School Diploma, 53% |
| Most common major | Business | Business |
| Most common college | - | - |
Here are the differences between laser operators' and machine operators' demographics:
| Laser Operator | Machine Operator | |
| Average age | 43 | 44 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 82.1% Female, 17.9% | Male, 72.3% Female, 27.7% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 4.8% Unknown, 5.4% Hispanic or Latino, 14.6% Asian, 6.0% White, 68.3% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.9% | Black or African American, 12.0% Unknown, 3.4% Hispanic or Latino, 16.0% Asian, 7.5% White, 60.0% American Indian and Alaska Native, 1.2% |
| LGBT Percentage | 6% | 5% |