Set Up Technician

Setup TechnicianThis role supports a metals manufacturing division by setting up vertical mills and punch presses so production operators can run them efficiently and safely. You will work closely with engineering and design teams to improve tooling and final products, making this an excellent opportunity for trade school graduates or experienced punch press operators who want to expand their skills in machining.ResponsibilitiesSet up vertical mills and punch presses for production operators to run, ensuring correct tooling, fixtures, and machine parameters.Work collaboratively with two other setup technicians to coordinate machine setups on vertical mills and punch presses.Troubleshoot machine issues and make necessary adjustments to maintain smooth, reliable operation during production runs.Collaborate with engineering teams, as well as internal and external designers, to refine tooling and improve the quality and performance of the final product.Review and understand engineering objectives and design intent, providing clear and constructive feedback to support continuous improvement.Maintain quality standards by performing in-process inspections of parts and monitoring machining and stamping processes for accuracy and consistency.Use shop math and measuring tools to verify dimensions, tolerances, and part conformance during setup and production.Operate and support CNC and numerical control equipment as needed for machining and metal stamping operations.Ensure machines are properly prepared, aligned, and calibrated before handing them over to operators.Follow established safety procedures and contribute to a safe working environment on the production floor.Essential SkillsHands-on experience with mill machining and vertical mill operation.Practical experience with punch press operation, including setup and troubleshooting.Familiarity with turret punch and metal stamping processes.Ability to set up and adjust machines for production, including tooling changes and parameter settings.Proficiency in shop math to calculate dimensions, tolerances, and basic machining parameters.Experience using measuring tools to inspect parts and verify accuracy during in-process checks.Knowledge of numerical control and CNC machine operation in a manufacturing environment.Ability to read and understand engineering objectives and design intent and translate them into effective machine setups.Strong attention to detail and commitment to maintaining quality standards throughout the production process.Additional Skills & QualificationsTrade school or technical program in machining, manufacturing, or a related field is highly beneficial.Experience as a punch press operator looking to expand into machining is a strong plus.Comfort working with engineering and design teams to discuss tooling and product improvements.Ability to provide clear feedback on design and process changes to support continuous improvement.Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot machine and process issues quickly.Willingness to work in a collaborative team environment with other setup technicians and production staff.Why Work Here?Employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes a monthly production bonus, retirement savings with a matching 401(k) contribution, and robust health coverage with medical, dental, and vision insurance. The organization provides company-paid life insurance, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, two weeks of sick pay, and two weeks of paid time off. The culture emphasizes safety and recognition, with monthly safety drawings open to all employees and regular appreciation events such as free ice cream days. Team members benefit from a supportive environment that values wellness, work-life balance, and continuous improvement.Work EnvironmentThe facility is very clean, modern, and well-maintained, offering a comfortable and professional setting for manufacturing work. Employees have access to a wellness room and an onsite workout facility, supporting physical and mental well-being. The break room is spacious and inviting, featuring a ping pong table and a market where employees can purchase food, snacks, and drinks. Walking trails around the site allow staff to enjoy fresh air and movement during breaks or lunch. The organization promotes safety with dedicated programs and even hosts an annual onsite shoe truck for full-time employees to purchase steel-toed or safety shoes at discounted rates, reinforcing a strong safety culture on the production floor.Job Type & LocationThis is a Permanent position based out of Saint Paul, MN.Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $23.00 - $28.00/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:Medical, dental & visionCritical Illness, Accident, and Hospital401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions availableLife Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)Short and long-term disabilityHealth Spending Account (HSA)Transportation benefitsEmployee Assistance ProgramTime Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Saint Paul, MN.