Press Brake Operator

Press Brake Operator

This role operates an industrial press brake on 2nd or 3rd shift within a manufacturing facility to form metal stock according to customer specifications. The Press Brake Operator Level 1 reads and interprets blueprints, sets up and runs the press brake with correct machine and die settings, and consistently meets or exceeds quality, safety, and productivity standards.

• Locate and verify that the correct material is delivered to the work center before work.
• Inspect and confirm that the press brake and related equipment are functioning properly prior to and during operation.
• Ensure that the appropriate nesting program is loaded and delivered to the work center for each job.
• Verify that the nesting program matches the blueprint and work order requirements.
• Set and monitor correct gas, speed, and consumables for each job to achieve accurate and consistent forming results.
• Read and interpret blueprints and work orders to determine bend sequence, tooling, and machine settings.
• Accurately project and communicate the completion time of work orders at the work center.
• Complete all assigned work orders correctly and on time, maintaining required quality standards.
• Stage completed jobs properly and in the correct sequence to support efficient downstream operations.
• Use measuring tools such as tape measures, calipers, micrometers, and other gauges to verify part dimensions and tolerances.
• Perform machine setup for the press brake, including selecting and installing tooling, dies, and backgauge settings.
• Operate related equipment such as punch presses, shear presses, and forklifts as needed to support production.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area, including regular housekeeping of the work center.
• Monitor parts and equipment during production and promptly report any issues, malfunctions, or safety concerns to supervision.
• Follow all shop safety procedures, including proper handling of materials and use of personal protective equipment.
• Assist with basic troubleshooting and adjustments to improve part quality and machine performance.
• Perform additional duties and tasks as assigned to support overall fabrication and production goals.

• At least 1 year of experience operating a press brake in a manufacturing or fabrication environment.
• Demonstrated ability to set up and operate an industrial press brake, including selecting and installing appropriate tooling and dies.
• General knowledge of plate bending operations and forming processes.
• Ability to read and understand blueprints, prints, and work orders to determine required dimensions and bend sequences.
• Ability to read and use measuring devices such as tape measures, calipers, micrometers, and other precision measuring tools.
• Experience with CNC press brake operation and basic machine setup.
• Ability to indicate vices and properly secure work pieces for accurate forming.
• Basic machine operation skills, including use of punch presses, shear presses, and related fabrication equipment.
• Ability to work safely in a fabrication shop environment, including handling heavy materials and equipment.
• Capability to lift up to 100 pounds and stand for prolonged periods, with frequent bending, kneeling, and stooping.
• Reliable attendance and ability to work 2nd or 3rd shift as scheduled.

• Experience reading and interpreting detailed blueprints and schematics for sheet metal and plate fabrication.
• Hands-on experience with sheet metal work, including forming, bending, and assembly.
• Familiarity with CNC programming or nesting programs for press brake operations.
• Experience using forklifts to move materials and finished parts within a shop environment.
• Comfort working with various measuring tools and gauges to verify tolerances and quality.
• Bilingual English/Spanish communication skills are preferred.
• Strong attention to detail, quality-focused mindset, and ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple work orders, and meet production deadlines.

This opportunity offers full-time employment with access to comprehensive benefits, paid time off, and…