Press Brake Setup Operator
Listed on 2026-08-28
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Manufacturing / Production
Manufacturing & Industrial Operations, Machine Operator
Press Brake Setup Operator Job
Reporting to the Metals Supervisor, the Press Brake Setup Operator will be responsible for setting up and running press operations in the metal fabrication department. The setup operator uses an electrically powered industrial machine to create, shape and customize metal materials to effectively coordinate and supervise production activities for the Libertyville (MRK) facility in a way that promotes employee safety, utilization of equipment, materials, and people so that the plant meets budgeted objectives in a safe and efficient manner.
Essential duties and responsibilities include the following, as well as other duties may be assigned:
- Perform setups on the press brake by selecting correct tooling and creating/editing CNC programs to blueprint specs, bending experience is preferred.
- Able to perform problem solve programs as needed.
- Able to read complex blueprints and follow work instructions.
- Conduct quality checks on parts.
- Follow basic safety operations on the Brake Press.
- Produce multiple quality bends on a single part efficiently.
- Adjust machine settings as needed to achieve desired results.
- Ensure conformance to specifications.
- Measure and mark work pieces using calipers, micrometer, or other gauges.
- Assemble fabricated parts using hand tools and other equipment.
- Read and interpret blueprints and production drawings.
- Operate forklifts and use them in conveying work materials.
- Collaborate with team leaders and supervisors to ensure smooth work operations.
- Maintain safety guidelines and regulations to ensure a risk-free work environment.
- Organize and clean equipment on a regular basis.
Qualifications to perform this job successfully include the following knowledge, skill, and/or ability:
- Bilingual in English and Spanish is preferred.
- Performs a variety of complicated tasks; can read and understand Blueprint Specifications.
- Strong knowledge of sheet metal fabrication techniques and processes.
- Familiarity with precision measuring instruments such as micrometers, calipers, and gauges.
- Ability to use hand tools effectively and safely.
- Reliable and flexible to changing needs.
- Effective communication skills.
The physical requirements described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to sit; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. The employee must frequently lift and move up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift and move up to 50 pounds.
Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
Work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Plant Environment – This position operates in a manufacturing setting and can be subject to extreme cold and hot temperatures; uneven walking surfaces with cords, tools, and other obstacles; intermittent loud noises; and dusty or dirty conditions. Required PPE includes:
Hard hat (when required), safety glasses, earplugs, steel toe/composite boots, cut sleeves/cut resistant gloves and fall protection.
Education and/or
Experience:
- High School education referred (Diploma or GED).
- Brake Press Operator: 3 years (Required)
- CNC Brake Press Setup: 3 years (Required)
MRK Industries, Inc., a subsidiary of Armstrong World Industries, Inc. (AWI), is one of twelve AWI plants in North America. Our Libertyville plant in northern Illinois is located 1 hour northwest of Chicago, and 1 hour south of Milwaukee, WI. It is also a short, 7 mile drive to beautiful Lake Michigan. Visit Libertyville's historic downtown shopping and dining district, with nearly 100 restaurants, cafes and pubs.
Stop by the Dunn Museum. Take your friends and family to the Libertyville Sports Complex. Check out their calendar of events for festivals, wine tastings, community bike rides, classic car shows and other activities that are hosted year-round. Libertyville provides a hometown feel, while being close to the 3rd and 31st largest cities in the US!
MRK Industries, Inc., a subsidiary of Armstrong World Industries, is committed to engaging a diverse, purpose-driven workforce. As part of our dedication to diversity, AWI is committed to Equal Employment Opportunity and all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard for race, sex, color, national origin, ethnicity, gender, protected veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or religion. We are also committed to providing reasonable accommodations for…
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