Press Brake Operator

Job Summary

The Press Brake Operator is an advanced skilled position in the Company with specific responsibility for set‑up and operation of CNC controlled forming, cutting and rolling equipment. The operator may also assist in the operation, set‑up and/or training of less skilled operators. The operator receives specific work assignments under limited supervision and resolves most problems with limited supervisory assistance. All work is subject to first piece and final inspections and testing to minimize metal damage and control excess labor and material expense.

The operator is expected to practice and adhere to the department’s 6‑S standards and the Company’s Six Sigma principles.

• Reviews job/production orders and interprets accompanying prints and drawings to determine job requirements.
• Runs bend and forming operations using standard and custom punches.
• Uses a CNC controller to input information into the machine.
• Adjusts ram and back gauge locations per process control instructions and blueprints.
• Checks height, depth and thickness using tape measure, calipers, gauges and other precision‑measuring instruments.
• Performs complex programming using all features of the press brake.
• Produces parts for assembly operations.
• Meets customer specifications and delivery requirements.
• Programs the CNC to produce new parts meeting specifications.
• Performs spot inspections of parts.
• Configures bend allowances for sheet metal and plate steel (stainless, aluminum & regular steel).
• Ensures the machine is calibrated and cleaned.
• Performs all required routine and minor maintenance activities according to procedures.
• Prepares and cleans product surfaces, as necessary, for desired operation.
• Monitors machine performance and output during production to ensure proper results.
• Cleans and maintains the work area (daily), fabricating equipment and other tools of the trade.
• Works in a safe manner at all times.
• Ensures that all work is done in accordance with and adheres to IEA’s ISO and Quality standards.
• Provides reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities to perform essential duties.

• Maximum lifting requirement: 100 pounds (infrequently, assisted); 50 pounds (frequently).
• Maximum moving requirement: 200 pounds (with assistance).
• Maintaining physical condition necessary for frequent standing, walking, kneeling, crouching, stooping, squatting, and twisting upper body; occasional climbing or sitting.
• Working at heights off the ground:
  Not applicable.
• Vision requirements:
  Close, distance, and peripheral vision; depth perception.

• Work location(s):
  Metal fabrication/welding/assembly shop, plant grounds.
• Exposure to:
  Hot objects (burns), glare (flashing), sparks and flying objects (metal chips and scale), fumes, airborne particles, toxic/caustic chemicals, moving mechanical parts/equipment, wet/humid (non‑weather) conditions, inclement weather conditions, removing mechanical equipment, and noise levels of 80 dBA or above.
• Personal protective equipment requirement:
  Safety glasses, ANSI safety shoes. Other protective clothing including gloves, outerwear and ear protection as necessary. Additional equipment as per job site requirements.

• Working knowledge of metal fabricating/forming practices and processes.
• Working knowledge of operating procedures for press brake and ring roller.
• Ability to read and understand job specifications, shop drawings, and blueprints.
• Ability to perform intermediate math computations associated with metal fabrication.
• Knowledge of properties of structural metals and related items.
• Skill in using and maintaining fabricating equipment and related tools of the trade including scales, protractors, fixed angle and radius gauges.
• Knowledge of occupational hazards and the ability to follow safe work practices.
• Ability to communicate and work effectively with others.

• Three or more years of specific fabricating machine experience.
• Experience operating and setting up press brakes (minimum 3 years required).
• Experience with shop math, calipers, and other precision instruments (minimum 3 years required).