Punch Press Operator​/Setup

Location: Carson, CA

Department: Punch Press Operations

Reports To: Production Supervisor / Manufacturing Director

Employment Type: Full-Time | 2nd Shift Preferred (2:30pm Start)

Salary: DOE, $22-30/hr, OT available

A&R Engineering Co., Inc. is a precision manufacturer serving the Aerospace and Defense industry, producing mission‑critical components through advanced CNC machining, Punch Press, and Assembly operations. Our team is committed to quality, safety, and continuous improvement in a fast‑paced, compliance‑driven environment.

We are seeking an experienced Punch Press Operator/Setup to join our metal stamping department. This role is responsible for setting up and maintaining mechanical punch presses (10–75 ton) from manufacturers such as Bliss, Southbend, and Komatsu, running materials like aluminum alloys, stainless steel, and copper. The ideal candidate will have experience in progressive and simple die setup, Blueprint Reading, and in‑process troubleshooting.

• Setup and Operation:
  • Prepare and install dies for punch press production (single‑hit and progressive dies)
  • Set feeds, speeds, and clearances appropriate for aluminum, stainless, copper, and run parts
  • Validate first‑article parts to blueprint and work instruction specs
• Documentation & Compliance:
  • Complete setup sheets and maintenance logs per AS9100 procedures
  • Support root cause analysis for part or tooling defects
  • Follow all safety protocols and contribute to a clean, organized work area

• Required:
  • 2+ years of punch press setup experience in aerospace, defense, or similar high‑tolerance industry
  • Strong knowledge of die maintenance, surface grinding, and blueprint reading (including GD&T)
  • Experience with aluminum, stainless steel, and copper in sheet form
  • Familiarity with AS9100/ISO
    9001‑compliant work environments
• Preferred:
  • Hands‑on experience with Bliss, Southbend, Komatsu or similar mechanical presses
  • Basic machining knowledge (mill/lathe/grinding) for fixing die components
  • Forklift operation or overhead crane use for tool handling

• Competitive hourly wage
• Available Overtime
• Medical, Dental, Vision insurance (after 30 days)
• 401(k) with employer match (after 12 months)
• Paid vacation, holidays, and sick time
• Opportunities for advancement within a growing aerospace team