CNC Turret Press Operator

CNC Turret Press Operator

Location: Newport News, VA Employment Type: Full-Time | Contract-to-Hire Shift Availability: 1st and 3rd Shift (schedule flexibility required based on production needs) Compensation: Starting at $18.00/hour (pay based on experience and technical skill level)

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced CNC Turret Press Operator to support sheet metal manufacturing operations involving turret punch and punch/laser combination equipment. This position is responsible for machine setup, tooling configuration, program operation, and quality verification while maintaining production efficiency in a fast-paced fabrication environment.

The ideal candidate will have strong blueprint reading skills, knowledge of sheet metal materials, and experience troubleshooting CNC punching operations.

Essential Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC turret punch equipment for sheet metal fabrication projects
• Load machine programs and prepare raw materials for production runs
• Install and align punches, dies, and forming tools according to production specifications
• Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and work instructions to ensure dimensional accuracy
• Optimize punch patterns and material layouts to improve efficiency and reduce material waste
• Monitor machine performance and identify issues related to tooling wear, material feeding, or machine operation
• Perform in-process quality inspections using precision measuring instruments such as calipers
• Make machine or tooling adjustments as necessary to maintain product quality and workflow consistency
• Maintain accurate production, setup, and inspection documentation
• Coordinate with fabrication, engineering, and production teams to support scheduling and throughput goals
• Organize workload and prioritize tasks to maintain steady production output

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience operating CNC turret punch equipment
• Strong blueprint and technical drawing interpretation skills
• Experience working with galvanized steel, aluminum, and stainless steel materials
• Proficiency using precision measuring tools and inspection equipment
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting capability
• Solid understanding of shop math, including geometry and trigonometry
• Ability to estimate production timelines and manage workload efficiently
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and perform physical tasks including standing, bending, and squatting for extended periods
• Comfortable working in varying industrial temperature conditions

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience editing G-code programs
• Familiarity with CAD/CAM software platforms
• Forklift operation experience
• Exposure to project coordination or manufacturing support functions

Equipment Used

• Amada EM3612ZRT 33-Ton Turret Punch Press with High-Capacity Tool Rack and Automatic Tool Changer
• Amada EML 2515 Aje Turret Punch/Laser Combination System

This opportunity is ideal for a detail-oriented fabrication professional who enjoys precision manufacturing, machine setup, and maintaining high-quality production standards in a team-oriented environment.