Press Brake Operator

Job Description

Job Description

Job Description: Press Brake Operator

Location: Walker, MI

Reports To: Production Manager

Interfaces With: Production, Engineering, Quality, Material Handling, Maintenance

Compensation

Starting wage is $22.00-$26.00 per hour, based on skill level and experience.

Location Note

This role is currently based in Walker, MI, with a planned transition to our Grandville, MI location in Q1 2027.

Role Purpose

1. Set up, program, and operate CNC press brake equipment to manufacture precision sheet metal components that meet customer specifications and company quality standards
2. Produce quality parts safely and efficiently while supporting production schedules and customer delivery requirements
3. Maintain equipment, tooling, and work areas to ensure safe and reliable manufacturing operations
4. Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, delivery, productivity, and waste reduction

Core Accountabilities

Press Brake Operations

1. Set up and operate CNC press brake equipment in accordance with work instructions and production schedules
2. Read and interpret engineering drawings, work orders, and manufacturing specifications
3. Select, install, and verify proper tooling, punches, and dies for each production run
4. Program and adjust machine parameters to produce parts that meet print specifications
5. Perform first-piece approval and in-process inspections throughout production
6. Monitor machine performance and make adjustments to maintain quality and efficiency
7. Verify completed parts meet dimensional and cosmetic requirements before release to the next operation

Quality

1. Inspect parts using calipers, angle gauges, tape measures, and other measuring devices as required
2. Identify and report quality concerns, tooling issues, equipment problems, or material defects
3. Support containment, corrective actions, and continuous quality improvement initiatives
4. Maintain compliance with all work instructions, quality standards, and inspection requirements

Equipment and Tooling

1. Perform routine equipment inspections and basic preventative maintenance
2. Maintain tooling in good working condition and report damaged or worn tooling
3. Assist with troubleshooting machine and tooling issues as required
4. Maintain machine cleanliness and organization

Safety and Workplace Organization

1. Follow all company safety policies and safe operating procedures
2. Maintain clean, organized, and safe work areas using 5S principles
3. Properly handle raw material, finished product, and scrap
4. Wear required personal protective equipment at all times

Systems and Documentation

1. Accurately complete production reporting and required documentation
2. Utilize company systems including Plex, Job Web, SmartPAC, and other manufacturing software as required
3. Record production quantities, scrap, downtime, and quality information accurately

Team Support and Development

1. Work effectively with minimal supervision
2. Assist with training team members on machine operation, setup procedures, and quality expectations as assigned
3. Support cross-functional manufacturing activities as business needs require
4. Perform other duties necessary to support customer, operational, and business requirements

Required Qualifications

1. High School Diploma or GED
2. Ability to read and interpret blueprints, work instructions, and manufacturing specifications
3. Basic mechanical aptitude
4. Ability to work safely in a manufacturing environment

Preferred Qualifications

1. Two or more years of CNC press brake experience
2. Experience performing machine setups and tooling changes
3. Experience using precision measuring equipment
4. Experience in a metal fabrication manufacturing environment

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

1. Strong commitment to safety and quality
2. Ability to produce accurate parts with minimal supervision
3. Strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills
4. Ability to identify and communicate production or quality issues quickly
5. Dependable attendance and work habits
6. Strong teamwork and communication skills
7. Willingness to learn new equipment and manufacturing processes

Physical Requirements

1. Frequent standing, walking, bending, twisting, and reaching
2. Good hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity
3. Continuous visual attention while operating machinery and inspecting parts
4. Ability to regularly lift up to 25 pounds
5. Ability to perform repetitive tasks throughout the workday

Work Environment

1. Manufacturing environment with moving machinery and equipment
2. Exposure to noise, dust, oils, grease, and varying temperatures
3. Occasional exposure to outdoor weather conditions
4. Exposure to manufacturing hazards requiring strict adherence to safety procedures

Personal Protective Equipment

1. Safety glasses required
2. Hearing protection required
3. Additional PPE as required by task or work area

Key Performance Indicators

1. Safety performance
2. Quality performance and first-pass yield
3. Productivity and schedule attainment
4. Setup efficiency and machine utilization
5. Housekeeping and 5S compliance
6. Attendance and dependability
7. Adherence to work instructions and operating procedures