Technical Lead, Brake Press

Job Summary

The Technical Lead – Brake Press is responsible for performance, reliability, and standardization of bending operations within the manufacturing environment. This role owns the technical execution of brake press processes, ensuring safe, repeatable setups and consistent first-pass quality.

Working closely with Production, Engineering, Quality, and Maintenance, the Technical Lead drives process stability, reduces variation, and improves throughput. The position serves as the primary technical resource on the production floor, supporting complex troubleshooting, advancing operator capability, and reinforcing disciplined execution aligned to safety, quality, delivery, and cost expectations.

• Own brake press processes across assigned area, ensuring repeatable, stable, and capable bending operations
• Establish and maintain standard work for setups, tooling selection, and bend sequencing
• Demonstrate a clear understanding of air bending, bottom bending, and coining, and apply the appropriate method based on material, tolerance, and production requirements. Develop and validate flat pattern, bend deductions, and bend sequencing
• Optimize forming methods based on material type, thickness, and geometry to ensure quality and efficiency
• Troubleshoot complex forming issues including spring back, distortion, and tolerance stack-ups

• Define and standardize tooling requirements (punches, dies, specialty tooling) aligned to product mix
• Reduce setup time through pre-staging, offline programming, and SMED principles
• Ensure tooling condition, maintenance, and proper storage to protect precision and longevity
• Support capital and tooling investment decisions with clear technical justification

• Lead NC programming for brake presses (offline and/or at machine), ensuring accuracy and efficiency
• Validate programs through first-piece verification and continuous improvement of bend sequences
• Maximize machine utilization by aligning programs with production flow and minimizing downtime

• Ensure parts meet dimensional and cosmetic requirements on first pass
• Drive process capability (Cp/Cpk) through controlled setups and standardized methods
• Partner with Quality to resolve non-conformances using structured problem-solving (5 Why, 8D)
• Implement error-proofing and in-process inspection standards
• Support NPI/APQP activities related to forming processes
• Validate new parts, tooling, and processes prior to production release
• Ensure production readiness through documented setups, routing accuracy, and risk mitigation

• Act as the technical escalation point for operators and supervisors on the floor
• Train and coach brake press operators on setup, operation, safety, and quality standards
• Build bench strength through skill development and cross-training
• Reinforce disciplined execution and accountability to standards
• Partner with Engineering on design for manufacturability (DFM), especially bend feasibility and tolerancing
• Support Production in scheduling priorities and resolving constraints

• Ensure safe operation of all brake press equipment (guarding, light curtains, safe work practices)
• Drive compliance with EH&S standards and proactively identify risk areas in forming operations
  
  Support and participate in incident investigations and implement corrective actions

• High school diploma / GED
• 5 years press brake machine operation experience. (Equipment brands include: Trumpf, Amada, Bystronic, Salvagnini, Cincinnati, Standard, Piranha, Wysong, Accurpress, Aliko)
• Previous plant experience in the metals fabrication industry
• Must possess strong basic math skills
• Ability to read and understand blueprints
• Ability to use quality inspection tools
• Ability to read, write and speak English
• Ability to stand for extended periods of time
• Ability to lift and carry up to 40 lbs

• Computer literate

7-7:30pm Friday-Saturday-Sunday

$27 - $35 per hour, shift premium $2.60/hr, plus overtime

We offer competitive company benefits to eligible positions, such as

• Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance and Disability
• Voluntary Wellness Programs
• 401(k) or RRSP programs with Company Match
• Paid Vacation and Holidays
• Tuition Reimbursement
• And more!

Benefits may vary based on job, country, union role, and/or company segment. Please work with your recruiter or tk representative for applicable benefits information.

Equal opportunity employer, including people with disabilities and veterans.

Applicants with disabilities may be entitled to reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act and certain state or local laws. For those requiring assistance completing the application or the application process and request information relating to the need for accommodation, please contact reasonablea