Plasma Operator at South shields, Tyne and wear

CNC Plasma Operator

Temp to permanent

Based in South Tyneside

Mon-Fri day shift only, half day finish Fridays

Negotiable hourly rate depending on experience and availability

Job Purpose:

Operate and set up an Ermaksan CNC plasma cutting machine to produce accurate cut parts from plate to drawing/spec, meeting quality, safety and production targets.

Key Responsibilities:

• Set up and operate an Ermaksan CNC plasma cutting table (power-up, referencing, consumables checks, cut parameters as required).
• Load/unload plate safely using overhead crane/forklift (where trained), ensuring correct material ID, thickness and grade.
• Interpret engineering drawings, cutting lists and job travellers to confirm dimensions, tolerances and priorities.
• Run programmes (and minor edits where authorised) including correct nesting, lead-ins/outs, pierce points and kerf compensation.
• Select and change consumables (nozzles, electrodes, shields), set torch height control, and monitor cut quality.
• Perform first-off and in-process inspection: dimensional checks, squareness, hole quality, bevel/edge condition; record results.
• Identify and resolve basic cutting issues (dross, taper, excessive bevel, mis-pierce, warping) and escalate where needed.
• Carry out routine TPM: clean rails/slats, check gases/air supply, drain filters, lubrication checks, basic calibration checks.
• Deburr, mark/etch, and sort parts to the correct stillage/pallet with clear traceability labels.
• Maintain 5S standards around the machine and follow SOPs, risk assessments and PPE requirements.
• Work closely with planning, fabrication and quality to hit schedule and reduce scrap/rework.

Skills & Experience:

• Proven experience operating a CNC plasma cutting machine
• Confident reading engineering drawings and using measuring equipment (tape, verniers/calipers, squares).
• Understanding of plate processing, tolerances, kerf, heat input and distortion control.
• Able to conduct basic fault-finding and adjust for cut quality (within permitted settings).
• Strong safety mindset and ability to work to production deadlines.

Should you require any support or assistance, please contact your local Gi Group office.

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Gi Group Holdings Recruitment Limited group of companies includes Gi Recruitment Limited, Draefern Limited, Gi Group Recruitment Ltd, INTOO (UK) Limited, Marks Sattin (UK) Limited, TACK TMI UK Limited, Grafton Professional Staffing Limited, Encore Personnel Services, Gi Group Ireland Limited and Kelly Services (UK) Ltd. Gi Group Ireland Limited are acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this role.

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