Press Brake Operator (3347)
Summary The Press Brake Operator is responsible for setting up and operating press brake equipment to produce precision-formed metal parts in accordance with blueprints, work instructions, quality requirements, and production schedules. This position selects and installs the appropriate tooling, adjusts machine settings, inspects completed parts, and ensures work is completed safely, accurately, and efficiently.
Job Responsibilities and Duties Review blueprints, engineering drawings, work orders, and specifications to determine required dimensions, tolerances, materials, tooling, and bend sequences. Set up and operate manual and/or CNC press brake equipment to bend and form sheet metal components. Select, install, position, and align the appropriate punches, dies, and other tooling for each job. Enter and adjust machine settings based on material type, thickness, bend allowance, bend angle, and job specifications.
Perform pre-operation inspections and verify that equipment, tooling, guards, and work areas are in safe operating condition. Run first-piece and in-process inspections using appropriate measuring tools to confirm dimensions, angles, tolerances, and overall quality. Monitor machine performance and the forming process to maintain consistent output and identify errors, defects, or equipment issues. Make authorized adjustments to correct minor setup or production issues and report significant equipment or quality concerns to the supervisor.
Identify and properly handle nonconforming material in accordance with established quality procedures. Complete required production records, job documentation, and material tracking accurately and on time. Perform routine operator-level cleaning, inspection, and preventive maintenance and promptly report repair needs. Safely move and stage raw materials, work-in-process, and completed parts using approved material-handling methods.
Maintain an organized work area and follow housekeeping, PPE, lockout/tagout, and other company safety requirements. Meet established expectations for quality, productivity, attendance, and schedule completion. Participate in training and cross-training and perform other job-related duties as assigned. Qualifications Skills and Qualifications High school diploma or GED preferred, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
Prior experience operating press brake or comparable metal-fabrication equipment preferred. Ability to read and interpret blueprints, mechanical drawings, work instructions, and specifications. Working knowledge of basic shop mathematics, including decimals, fractions, angles, and measurement conversions. Ability to use measuring instruments such as tape measures, calipers, protractors, squares, and gauges.
Understanding of metal properties, material thicknesses, bend allowances, tooling selection, and machine setup. Ability to operate CNC press brake controls and related software, when applicable. Strong attention to detail and the ability to consistently produce work within required tolerances. Ability to recognize quality defects, equipment problems, and unsafe conditions and respond appropriately.
Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and work independently or as part of a team. Work Environment This job operates in a manufacturing plant environment around operating machinery, sheet metal, moving equipment, noise, dust, and varying temperatures. The position requires personal protective equipment and may involve exposure to sharp edges, pinch points, and other hazards common to metal fabrication operations.
Physical Demands Employees must be able to stand for extended periods and safely operate press brake equipment. The role frequently requires reaching, bending, stooping, gripping, pushing, pulling, and handling materials, tools, and controls. The employee must lift and move materials or parts up to [insert weight] pounds independently and heavier items with assistance or approved lifting equipme