Operator

Job Title: Press Brake Setup Operator $18-$25/hr

Job Description

This role focuses on setting up and operating multi-axis press brake machines to produce precision-formed metal parts according to engineering prints. You will load and adjust programs, configure tooling and back gauges to exact decimal specifications, and perform short-run production with multiple setups per day while maintaining high quality and accuracy.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate press brake machines, including loading programs and configuring the machine to the correct decimal settings, bend angles, and back gauge positions.
• Run parts to print, ensuring each part meets the specified dimensions and tolerances on the engineering drawings.
• Perform between 1 and 5 machine setups per day, depending on production needs and job mix, while maintaining efficiency and accuracy.
• Interpret and read blueprints, including understanding balloon dimensions and critical features, and identify any discrepancies or issues.
• Use basic math, especially working with decimals, to calculate and verify bend allowances, dimensions, and adjustments.
• Utilize precision measuring and quality tools such as micrometers, calipers, and gauges to inspect parts and confirm they meet specifications.
• Troubleshoot dimensional or quality issues by adjusting programs, tooling, or setup parameters to bring parts back into specification.
• Perform visual and dimensional inspections throughout the run to ensure consistent quality and adherence to prints.
• Handle short-run production efficiently, changing over tooling and programs as required for different jobs.
• Work safely with hand tools and shop equipment, following established procedures and maintaining a clean and organized work area.
• Collaborate with team members and supervision to meet production schedules and prioritize jobs as needed.
• Support continuous improvement by identifying opportunities to streamline setups, improve quality, and reduce scrap.

Essential Skills

• Minimum 2+ years of press brake experience with a focus on setting up the press brake, not only operating it.
• Proven ability to pull up, review, and run programs on a press brake, ensuring parts are produced to the print.
• Demonstrated experience performing multiple setups per day (1–5 setups) based on production requirements.
• Strong blueprint reading skills, including the ability to interpret balloon dimensions and critical characteristics.
• Ability to recognize when dimensions or features are incorrect and understand how to correct them according to the print.
• Proficiency in basic math, especially working with decimals, to support accurate bending and measurement.
• Hands-on experience using micrometers, calipers, and gauges for part inspection and verification.
• Mechanical aptitude and familiarity with machine operation and hand tools.
• Experience with inspection and troubleshooting of formed parts to maintain quality standards.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with Cincinnati 6-axis brake presses.
• Experience with Bystronic (Biostronic) press brake equipment.
• Background in short-run production environments with frequent changeovers.
• General mechanical skills and comfort working with metal fabrication equipment.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality parts.

Why Work Here?

The company offers a comprehensive benefits package that supports both financial security and work-life balance. Team members have access to medical, dental, and health coverage with an HSA option, as well as free vision benefits, long-term and short-term disability coverage, and life insurance. A 401(k) plan with 3–5% matching and profit sharing helps employees build long-term financial stability. Paid holidays, PTO, and an annual company picnic contribute to a positive and engaging workplace culture. The organization values internal growth and actively promotes from within, providing opportunities for career development in a stable, established manufacturing environment.

Work Environment

This is a manufacturing facility environment focused on metal fabrication and press brake operations. The primary schedule for 1st shift is Monday through Friday, 5:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with 40–50 hours per week and only occasional Saturday work. The facility operates multiple Cincinnati 6-axis brake presses and a few Bystronic machines, supporting mostly short-run production with frequent setups. The company manufactures parts for sectors such as military, electric vehicles, buses, and postal service trucks, offering exposure to diverse and critical applications. The shop includes extensive manufacturing and warehouse space with convenient access to major highways, and visitors are welcome to tour the facility and see the production environment firsthand. Employees work with standard fabrication tools and precision measuring equipment in a professional industrial setting.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Ferndale, MI.

The pay range for this position is $17.00 - $17.00/hr.

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 & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Ferndale,MI.

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 26, 2026.

About Aerotek

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.