Press Break Operator

About the Role

Responsible for operating a press brake machine, fitting and fabricating structural steel, completing layout, and inspecting finished products.

Responsibilities

• Operates press brake machine using all safety equipment and following all required procedures.
• Runs bend and forming operations using standard and custom punches.
• Uses a CNC controller to input information into the machine.
• Adjusts ram and back gauge locations per process control instructions and blueprints.
• Checks height, depth, and thickness using micrometers, dial indicators, calipers, gauges, and other precision-measuring instruments.
• Performs complex programming using all features of the press brake.
• Works with tight tolerances.
• Configures bend allowances for sheet metal (stainless, aluminum, and regular steel).
• Checks machine for defects and repairs if necessary.
• Ensures machine is calibrated and cleaned.
• Reads drawings and blueprints.
• Produces parts for assembly operations.
• Meets customer specifications and delivery requirements.
• Programs the CNC to produce new parts meeting specifications.
• Performs spot inspections of parts.
• Performs all required routine and minor maintenance activities according to procedures.
• Completes and maintains required paperwork.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Key Performance Indicators

• Safety: Documented instances (positive: notifying about potential hazards; negative: not following documented procedures or adding to potential risk).
• Quality: Documented instances (internal/external) and sheet efficiency.
• On-Time Delivery (OTD): 95% OTD or higher per production order delivery date.
• Productivity: Efficiency (100%) – to reduce total labor time. Discussions should occur if time estimate is considered too low.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Basic computer skills required.
• Minimum of 1 year of experience preferred.

Skills

• Language Skills: Ability to read, write, comprehend, and convey simple instructions.
• Mathematical Skills: Ability to add and subtract two-digit numbers.
• Reasoning Ability: Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out detailed but uninvolved written or oral instructions. Ability to deal with problems involving a few concrete variables in standardized situations.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Regularly required to stand and walk.
• Use hands to finger, handle, or feel.
• Reach with hands and arms.