Press Brake Operator

Department:
Fabrication

Reports To:

Fabrication Supervisor
Shift: 2nd Shift

Location:

Lancaster, SC

Pay: $19-$23/hr

The Press Brake Operator is responsible for setting up, programming, and operating CNC hydraulic press brakes to produce high-quality sheet metal components in a fast-paced job shop manufacturing environment. This role focuses on production efficiency, dimensional accuracy, safety, and quality while supporting a lean manufacturing team.

The operator will manufacture precision metal components used in electronic enclosures, electrical control boxes, equipment cabinets, chassis, brackets, guards, racks, frames, shelving systems, and welded assemblies. The successful candidate must be capable of interpreting blueprints, selecting tooling, performing inspections, and producing parts that meet customer specifications and production schedules.

• Operate CNC hydraulic press brakes using established programs, setup sheets, and work instructions.
• Load existing programs and perform minor program edits when required.
• Set up machines, tooling, punches, and dies for production runs.
• Determine proper bend sequence and verify machine settings prior to production.
• Run production jobs efficiently to meet daily and weekly production targets.
• Maintain consistent back-gauge contact and proper forming pressure throughout the bending process.
• Perform tool changes and machine adjustments as required.
• Minimize scrap, downtime, and rework.

The Press Brake Operator produces precision sheet metal components including:

• Custom frames
• Welded assembly components
• Industrial and commercial sheet metal products
• Steel, stainless steel, and aluminum fabricated parts

• Perform first-piece, in-process, and final inspections.
• Verify bend angles, flange dimensions, hole locations, and overall dimensions.
• Use calipers, tape measures, protractors, and other measuring devices to inspect parts.
• Read and interpret blueprints, job travelers, work instructions, and customer specifications.
• Identify and correct dimensional or quality issues before parts move to the next operation.
• Complete required inspection and production documentation.
• Ensure all manufactured parts meet quality and print specifications.

• Safely move raw materials, work-in-process, and finished products throughout the facility.
• Operate forklifts and material handling equipment safely.
• Route completed parts to the next operation, including welding, assembly, painting, powder coating, or shipping.
• Verify material types, thicknesses, and quantities before processing.

• Work effectively within a lean manufacturing environment.
• Communicate production issues, quality concerns, and schedule impacts to supervisors.
• Assist fabrication team members when production demands require support.
• Contribute to continuous improvement efforts that enhance safety, quality, and productivity.

• Follow all company safety policies and procedures.
• Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Perform routine equipment and work area inspections.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe workstation.
• Immediately report safety concerns, equipment malfunctions, or quality issues.

• Minimum of 2 years of CNC press brake operating experience in a manufacturing or job shop environment preferred.
• Experience producing precision sheet metal components from steel, stainless steel, and aluminum.
• Experience working in a fast-paced production environment.

• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and job travelers.
• Knowledge of CNC press brake operation and setup.
• Und…