Press Brake Operator

Press Brake Operator / Sheet Metal OperatorThis role operates a variety of sheet metal fabrication equipment, including laser cutters, press brakes, PEM installation tools, and other CNC-controlled machinery, to produce high-quality components that meet engineering drawings and specifications. You will set up and run precision fabrication equipment, perform quality inspections, maintain accurate production records, and support a safe, efficient, and organized manufacturing environment.ResponsibilitiesOperate sheet metal fabrication equipment including laser cutters, waterjet cutters, plasma cutters, press brakes, PEM insertion equipment, shears, and other CNC-controlled machinery.Set up machines according to CNC programs, engineering drawings, and work instructions, ensuring correct tooling, materials, and parameters.Load and unload sheet metal materials safely and efficiently, using appropriate handling techniques and equipment.Monitor machine operation during production runs and make necessary adjustments to maintain dimensional accuracy, surface finish, and overall part quality.Perform tool changes and basic machine setup tasks to support efficient changeovers and minimize downtime.Verify first-piece and in-process dimensions using calipers, micrometers, tape measures, gauges, and other measuring tools.Maintain production logs, equipment runtime records, and basic documentation to support traceability and process control.Inspect parts for dimensional accuracy, surface finish, and visible defects, ensuring they meet engineering drawings and specifications.Identify and report quality issues promptly to the appropriate supervisors or manufacturing leaders.Perform visual inspections for burrs, scratches, and other defects, and carry out deburring and finishing operations as required.Select and stage appropriate sheet metal materials, such as aluminum, steel, and stainless steel, for scheduled production jobs.Handle sheet metal safely to prevent damage to parts and equipment and to reduce the risk of injury.Organize finished parts and prepare them for downstream operations such as welding, powder coating, and assembly.Maintain an organized work area and support 5S standards by sorting, setting in order, shining, standardizing, and sustaining workplace organization.Return unused materials to proper storage locations and assist with inventory management and material tracking.Perform routine preventive maintenance on sheet metal fabrication equipment according to manufacturer specifications.Clean machines and work areas daily to support equipment reliability and a safe work environment.Monitor consumables such as cutting gases, nozzles, and tooling, and report when replenishment is needed.Report equipment issues promptly and coordinate with maintenance personnel for repairs and troubleshooting.Follow all safety protocols and procedures, including lockout/tagout and machine guarding requirements where applicable.Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and operate equipment within safe operating parameters.Maintain a clean, safe, and compliant work environment and immediately report any safety hazards or concerns.Support ISO 9001 compliance through accurate and complete documentation of production, quality, and process data.Coordinate with programming and engineering personnel on CNC program issues, optimization opportunities, and process improvements.Communicate with manufacturing leadership on production priorities, capacity constraints, and schedule changes.Collaborate with welding, powder coating, and assembly teams to ensure smooth handoff of parts and alignment on quality and schedule requirements.Contribute to continuous improvement by suggesting process, setup, and workflow enhancements to improve quality, efficiency, and safety.Essential SkillsHigh school diploma or equivalent.At least 1 year of sheet metal fabrication experience or equivalent technical training.Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and work instructions.Proficiency with measuring tools including calipers, micrometers, tape measures, and gauges.Mechanical aptitude and strong hand–eye coordination for operating precision fabrication equipment.Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and perform physical tasks associated with sheet metal handling and machine operation.Basic computer skills for machine operation, CNC interfaces, and documentation.Attention to detail with a strong commitment to quality and precision.Reliability, punctuality, and a strong work ethic.Safety-focused mindset with adherence to established protocols and procedures.Ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team.Willingness to work different shifts as required by production schedules.Additional Skills & Qualifications2+ years of sheet metal fabrication experience in a manufacturing environment.Technical certification or vocational training in sheet metal fabrication, machining, or a related trade.Experience operating laser cutters, press brakes, turret punches, or CNC press brakes.Familiarity with GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing) and its application in inspection and setup.Experience with CNC-controlled fabrication equipment and understanding of CNC programs.Knowledge of different sheet metal materials, including aluminum, steel, and stainless steel, and how they behave during fabrication.Experience in contract manufacturing or high-mix production environments where frequent changeovers are required.Forklift certification or experience operating material handling equipment.Demonstrated problem-solving skills and mechanical troubleshooting ability.Process improvement orientation with a willingness to suggest and implement improvements to setups, workflows, and quality.Demonstrated pride in workmanship and a quality-focused mindset.Why Work Here?Join a modern manufacturing operation that combines advanced technologies such as CNC machining, sheet metal fabrication, additive manufacturing, and finishing processes in a single integrated environment. You will work alongside design engineers, product developers, and operations teams, giving you exposure to innovative products and diverse projects. The organization emphasizes safety, quality, and continuous improvement, providing opportunities to develop your technical skills, expand your responsibilities, and grow your career. A structured production environment, clear processes, and cross-functional collaboration support a stable yet dynamic workplace where your contributions are visible and valued.Work EnvironmentThe work environment centers on a manufacturing facility that specializes in the production of high-quality components using additive manufacturing (3D printing), CNC machining, welding, sheet metal fabrication, powder coating, and assembly. You will work around laser cutters, waterjet and plasma cutters, press brakes, PEM insertion equipment, shears, and other CNC-controlled machines. The role involves regular use of measuring tools such as calipers, micrometers, tape measures, and gauges, as well as basic computer interfaces for machine control and documentation. The facility operates on structured shifts, starting initially on a day schedule from approximately 6:15 a.m. to 2:45 p.m., with a planned move to an evening schedule from approximately 2:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. The environment emphasizes safety, requiring consistent use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and adherence to safety procedures. Work is primarily performed on the shop floor around active machinery and material handling equipment, with an expectation of maintaining clean, organized workstations in line with 5S and ISO 9001 standards.Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract position based out of Seattle, WA.Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $30.00 - $36.00/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 & 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)Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Seattle,