Machine Operator

Job Title: Machine Operator | $22-29/hour

Job Description | 1st & 2nd shift and Weekend shift available

This role involves setting up, operating, or learning to set up and run press brakes and laser equipment within a fabrication department. You will work with advanced metal forming machinery to produce high-quality sheet metal components while following precise specifications and safety standards.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate press brake machines and laser equipment in the fabrication department.
• Assist with equipment setups or learn to perform full setups for press brakes and laser machines.
• Run Cincinnati and Amada press brakes, laser systems, and other metal forming equipment such as LVD Strippit turrets.
• Read and interpret blueprints to ensure accurate production of parts and components.
• Use tape measures, calipers, micrometers, and other measuring tools to verify dimensions and tolerances.
• Perform light machine setup tasks, including tool changes and basic adjustments as needed.
• Apply strong knowledge of bends and bend allowances to achieve precise forming results.
• Inspect finished parts for quality and conformance to specifications, making adjustments as required.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area in accordance with shop safety standards.
• Collaborate with team members and trainers to continuously improve skills and production processes.
• Participate in on-the-job training and apprenticeship programs to enhance technical and setup capabilities.

Essential Skills

• At least 2+ years of manufacturing experience, preferably in fabrication, press brake, punch, shear, turret, or machine operation.
• Experience performing light machine setup or tool changes.
• Proficiency in operating fabrication machinery such as press brakes, lasers, and turrets.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints accurately.
• Strong mechanical aptitude for machine operation and troubleshooting.
• Proficiency with calipers, micrometers, and other measuring tools used for inspection.
• Strong knowledge of bends and bend allowances in sheet metal fabrication.
• Ability to use a tape measure accurately and consistently.
• Capability to work from written instructions and production documentation.
• Commitment to working safely in a fabrication environment.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with Cincinnati and Amada press brakes or similar equipment.
• Experience with laser operation and LVD Strippit turret machines.
• Experience in assembly or related metalworking operations.
• Interest in participating in a state-approved apprenticeship program.
• Willingness to learn programming and setup of fabrication equipment through structured training.
• Interest in pursuing journeyman-level skills in sheet metal work.
• Desire to grow within a continuous improvement and training-focused environment.

Why Work Here?

Employees benefit from a strong culture of training, support, and advancement, with clear pathways to grow their careers. The organization offers an annual bonus program, 401(k) retirement savings with a 3% Safe Harbor contribution, and a 50% match on weekly Health Savings Account contributions. Comprehensive benefits include health insurance, optional dental coverage, short-term disability, $50,000 life insurance, and education reimbursement with an earn-while-you-learn model. Team members have access to an in-house, state-approved apprenticeship program, ongoing in-house training, and a climate-controlled environment that supports comfort and productivity. The company recognizes performance through annual recognition awards and maintains an open-door policy and continuous improvement culture. Personal protective equipment, including new safety work boots, is provided at no cost, and high-performing contractors may receive high-quality steel-toed boots and opportunities for permanent employment. The workplace is veteran friendly and offers structured support for employees who wish to attend school or advance their technical skills.

Work Environment

This is a climate-controlled sheet metal fabrication shop that emphasizes safety and is described as one of the safest sheet metal shops in the country. The facility uses modern, high-end equipment including Cincinnati and Amada press brakes, laser machines, and LVD Strippit turrets. The environment is team-oriented, with leadership that takes time to get to know employees and foster a supportive, growth-focused culture. There is a strong emphasis on training, with an on-site program where an external instructor provides weekly instruction on programming and setup of the equipment on the floor. Employees can participate in a four-year apprenticeship program designed to develop journeyman sheet metal workers. The workplace operates a 2nd shift schedule from 3:30 p.m. to 2:00 a.m., Monday through Thursday, with a shift differential for this schedule. Personal protective equipment, including safety work boots, is provided at no cost, supporting a safe and professional work environment.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Fridley, MN.

The pay range for this position is $22.00 - $29.00/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 Fridley,MN.

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 11, 2026.

About Aerotek

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies’ construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.

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.