Press Brake Operator

Press Brake Operator

This role involves setting up and operating press brake machines to fabricate and form large sheet metal components according to production specifications and blueprints. The Press Brake Operator uses precision measuring tools, interprets technical drawings, and adjusts machine programs to ensure accurate, high-quality parts in a fast-paced production environment.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate press brake machines, including Cincinnati press brake equipment, to form and bend sheet metal parts according to specifications.
• Interpret and follow blueprints, production drawings, and work orders to determine material requirements, dimensions, and machine settings.
• Use calipers, micrometers, tape measures, and other hand tools to measure and verify part dimensions and tolerances.
• Convert decimals to fractions and fractions to decimals to calculate dimensions, bend allowances, and machine settings accurately.
• Edit and adjust codes and programs on CNC press brake machines to achieve proper angles, dimensions, and part quality.
• Handle and work with large pieces of sheet metal safely and efficiently during setup, forming, and removal processes.
• Perform machine setup, including selecting and installing appropriate tooling, dies, and back gauge settings for each job.
• Monitor machine operation during production runs and make necessary adjustments to maintain quality and consistency.
• Inspect finished parts for accuracy, quality, and conformance to specifications using precision measuring instruments.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area and follow standard operating procedures and safety guidelines.
• Assist with general fabrication and production tasks as needed to support overall workflow and output.
• Identify and report any equipment issues, material defects, or quality concerns to the appropriate personnel.

Essential Skills

• 1–10 years of hands-on press brake operation experience in a production or fabrication environment.
• Proficiency operating press brake machines, including Cincinnati press brake equipment.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and production drawings accurately.
• Skilled in using tape measures, calipers, micrometers, and other precision measuring tools.
• Capability to convert decimals and fractions quickly and accurately for measurements and machine settings.
• Experience working with large pieces of sheet metal in a fabrication or manufacturing setting.
• Competence in CNC press brake operation, including basic code and program editing.
• Experience with machine setup, including tooling selection, machine adjustments, and back gauge configuration.
• Strong understanding of basic fabrication processes and production workflows.
• Ability to use hand tools safely and effectively in a manufacturing environment.
• Attention to detail and commitment to producing accurate, high-quality parts.
• No specific education or certifications required, provided the candidate meets the experience requirements.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with general fabrication and production work beyond press brake operation.
• Familiarity with a variety of hand tools and shop equipment commonly used in metal fabrication.
• Comfort working in a fast-paced production environment with multiple jobs and changing priorities.
• Strong problem-solving skills to troubleshoot minor machine or setup issues.
• Ability to work independently while following established procedures and safety practices.

Why Work Here?

You will join a production environment where your technical skills and attention to detail directly contribute to high-quality fabricated products. The role offers consistent daytime hours and the opportunity to build deeper expertise with press brake and CNC fabrication equipment. You will work alongside experienced professionals in a setting that values reliability, craftsmanship, and safe work practices.

Work Environment

This position is based in a fabrication and production facility focused on sheet metal work. The role operates on a first shift schedule, typically from 6:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through the workweek. You will work with Cincinnati press brakes, CNC press brake machines, and a range of hand tools, measuring instruments, and fabrication equipment. The environment is hands-on and shop-based, requiring regular handling of large sheet metal components and adherence to standard safety practices and appropriate work attire suitable for a manufacturing setting.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Columbia, SC.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $20.00/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 Type

This is a fully onsite position in Columbia, SC.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Sep 21, 2026.