Brake Press Operator (53182)

Press Brake Operator

Pay: $25.50 - $30.50 per hour, depending on experience

Shift Availability

1st Shift

• Monday through Friday, 5:00 AM - 1:30 PM
• Must be available to work Saturdays as needed

2nd Shift

• Monday through Thursday
• Must be available to work Fridays as needed

Job Summary

The Press Brake Operator is an advanced skilled position responsible for the setup, programming, and operation of CNC-controlled forming, cutting, and rolling equipment. This role requires the ability to independently perform complex machine setups, programming, troubleshooting, and production operations while maintaining quality and safety standards.

The Press Brake Operator may also assist with machine setup, operation, and training of less experienced operators. This position works under limited supervision, receives specific work assignments, and resolves most production issues with minimal supervisory assistance. All work is subject to first-piece and final inspections to ensure quality standards are met while minimizing material waste and labor costs.

The successful candidate is expected to follow departmental 6S standards and support the company's continuous improvement and Six Sigma initiatives.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Other duties may be assigned as necessary.

• Review job and production orders and interpret prints, blueprints, and drawings to determine work requirements.
• Perform bending and forming operations using standard and custom punches.
• Utilize CNC controls to input and modify machine programs.
• Adjust ram and back gauge locations according to blueprints and process control instructions.
• Measure and inspect parts using tape measures, calipers, gauges, and other precision measuring instruments.
• Perform complex programming utilizing all available press brake features.
• Produce quality parts for assembly operations.
• Meet customer specifications, quality expectations, and delivery requirements.
• Program CNC equipment to manufacture new parts according to specifications.
• Conduct spot inspections and quality checks throughout production.
• Configure bend allowances for sheet metal and plate steel, including stainless steel, aluminum, and carbon steel.
• Ensure machines are properly calibrated, maintained, and cleaned.
• Perform routine and minor maintenance according to established procedures.
• Prepare and clean product surfaces as required for fabrication processes.
• Monitor machine performance and production output to ensure quality and efficiency.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area, including fabrication equipment and tools.
• Follow all safety policies and procedures at all times.
• Ensure all work complies with ISO requirements and company quality standards.
• Assist in training and supporting less experienced operators when needed.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Qualifications

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong knowledge of metal fabrication and forming practices and processes.
• Experience operating and setting up press brakes and ring rollers.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, shop drawings, and job specifications.
• Ability to perform intermediate mathematical calculations related to fabrication work.
• Knowledge of structural metals and material properties.
• Skilled in the use of fabrication tools and precision measuring instruments, including:
  • Scales
  • Protractors
  • Fixed-angle gauges
  • Radius gauges
• Knowledge of workplace safety practices and occupational hazards.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to work independently and maintain high-quality standards.

Experience

• Minimum of 3 years of press brake or related fabrication machine experience required.

Education

• Formal apprenticeship training preferred but not required.

Certifications

• Forklift Operator Certification preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Lift up to 100 lbs. occasionally.
• Lift up to 50 lbs. frequently.
• Move materials up to 250 lbs. with assistance.
• Frequent standing, walking, kneeling, crouching, stooping, squatting, and twisting.
• Occasional climbing and sitting.
• Close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, and depth perception required.

Work Environment

Work is performed in a metal fabrication, welding, and assembly shop environment.

Employees may be exposed to:

• Hot materials and surfaces
• Welding glare and flashing
• Sparks, metal chips, and flying debris
• Fumes and airborne particles
• Chemicals and cleaning agents
• Moving machinery and mechanical equipment
• Wet or humid conditions
• Outdoor weather conditions as required
• Noise levels at or above 85 dBA

Required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Safety glasses
• ANSI-approved safety shoes
• Gloves as needed
• Hearing protection
• Protective outerwear and additional PPE required by specific job sites

Benefit offerings available for our associates include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, additional voluntary benefits, EAP program, commuter benefits and a 401K plan. Our benefit offerings provide employees the flexibility to choose the type of coverage that meets their individual needs. In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other paid leave required by Federal, State, or local law, as well as Holiday pay where applicable.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled

Military connected talent encouraged to apply

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The Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and/or security clearance requirements, including, as applicable:

• The California Fair Chance Act
• Los Angeles City Fair Chance Ordinance
• Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers
• San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance

Massachusetts Candidates Only: 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.