CNC Press Brake Operators

Location: Fontana, CA • Contract-to-Hire

About the role

We are seeking an experienced CNC Press Brake Setup Operator to join our growing sheet-metal fabrication team. This hands-on role requires expert-level understanding of CNC press brake setup and operation, with a strong preference for candidates experienced on Amada press brakes. Our production environment focuses on short-run jobs, typically 5–20 parts per order, making setup expertise critical.

Responsibilities

• Perform complete setup and operation of CNC press brake machines.
• Read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and work instructions to determine bend sequences and tooling requirements.
• Select, install, and align the correct punches and dies based on material type and thickness.
• Adjust back gauges, ram depth, bend angles, and machine stops to achieve precise bend lengths and part dimensions.
• Load production programs and make machine adjustments as necessary to ensure quality parts.
• Verify first-piece inspections and perform in-process quality checks.
• Understand material behavior and compensate for springback when bending sheet metal.
• Produce precision sheet-metal components while maintaining quality and production standards.
• Perform routine machine maintenance and maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
• Collaborate with engineering and production teams to resolve fabrication issues and improve processes.

Requirements

• Must have experience setting up and operating CNC Press Brake machines.
• Strong experience with Amada Press Brakes is highly preferred.
• Proven ability to independently perform complete machine setups, including tooling selection and machine adjustments.
• Thorough understanding of press brake tooling, punches, dies, bend allowances, and material thickness.
• Ability to adjust ram depth, back gauges, and machine stops for accurate bend dimensions.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and fabrication drawings.
• Strong understanding of sheet-metal fabrication processes.
• Familiarity with G-code and M-code is helpful, though programming from scratch is not required.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality work.

Schedule

1st Shift & 2nd Shift available; some overtime based on production demands.

Pay

$26–$29/hr, depending on experience.

Benefits

As a contract employee of Sterling, you are eligible to receive a full employee benefits package that includes:

• Paid time off
• Paid holidays
• Three medical plans to choose from
• Dental & vision plans
• 401(k)
• Employee Stock Ownership (ESOP) plan