Punch Press Setup Technician

Hog Slat, Incorporated, the world's leading provider of parts, equipment and turn-key construction to the swine & poultry industries is seeking a Punch Press Setup Technician to join the team at our Newton Grove, NC steel fabrication plant.

The Punch Press Setup Technician is responsible for setting up, maintaining, and optimizing punch press tooling and equipment to ensure safe, accurate, and efficient production. This role requires strong mechanical aptitude, precision, and hands‑on experience with dies, grinders, and press operations.

Essential duties and responsibilities include the following. Other functions may be assigned as business conditions change.

• Die Setup — Install, align, and secure dies in punch presses according to job specifications, ensuring proper fit, clearance, and operational readiness.
• Die Disassembly — Remove dies safely and efficiently for maintenance, inspection, or tooling changes.
• Sharpening Operations — Sharpen punches, dies, and related tooling using appropriate equipment to maintain edge quality and dimensional accuracy.
• Surface Grinding — Operate surface grinders to achieve precise flatness, parallelism, and finish on tooling components.
• Tolerance Interpretation — Read and interpret blueprints, dimensional tolerances, and technical drawings to ensure parts meet required specifications.
• Press Operation Knowledge — Apply working knowledge of punch press mechanics, safety systems, stroke settings, tonnage requirements, and feed systems.
• Quality Verification — Inspect finished parts using calipers, micrometers, height gauges, and other precision tools.
• Preventive Maintenance — Perform routine checks on tooling and press equipment to prevent downtime and extend tool life.
• Safety Compliance — Follow all safety protocols, lockout/tagout procedures, and company standards to maintain a safe working environment.

• Hands‑on experience setting up punch press dies and tooling
• Proficiency in disassembling, sharpening, and maintaining punch press components
• Ability to operate a surface grinder with precision
• Strong understanding of manufacturing tolerances and measurement tools
• Working knowledge of punch press operation, mechanics, and safety
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and blueprints
• Mechanical aptitude and problem‑solving skills
• Commitment to quality, accuracy, and safe work practices

• Experience with progressive dies or high‑volume stamping
• Familiarity with CNC or automated feed systems
• Formal training in machining, toolmaking, or industrial maintenance

Hog Slat Inc. is a

n Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, age disability, veteran status or any other reason prohibited under Federal State or local laws. All employment decisions are based on valid job-related requirements.