Senior Press Brake Operator- Night Shift

Position Summary

The Senior Brake Press Operator (Class 3) is an advanced-level fabrication professional responsible for independently setting up, programming, operating, and optimizing CNC press brake equipment to produce precision-formed metal components. This role requires mastery of tooling selection, blueprint interpretation, machine controls, quality inspection, and troubleshooting. The Senior Operator supports engineering, mentors lower-level operators, and contributes to continuous improvement initiatives across the fabrication department. Position is Monday-Thursday night; 4pm-2:30am. OT as needed.

Key Responsibilities

• CNC Press Brake Operation & Production
• Operates CNC press brake equipment to manufacture components for downstream operations or final-use applications.
• Loads and executes correct programs, ensuring proper part quantities, specifications, and revision levels are followed.
• Performs advanced setups involving complex bends, angles, multi-stage tooling, and tight-tolerance parts.
• Adjusts machine parameters (ram height, speed, back gauge strategy, retractions, offsets) to improve part consistency, safety, and productivity.
• Operates and adjusts Trumpf press brake machines with full proficiency.

Technical Knowledge, Controls & Troubleshooting

• Understands and applies press brake control language, including computer functions, program editing, offsets, and system commands.
• Performs basic troubleshooting including alarm identification, error correction, and mechanical or process adjustments.
• Diagnoses forming issues such as spring back, tooling interference, bend inconsistencies, and material variation.
• PARTNERS WITH LEAD PERSONNEL AND ENGINEERING TO RESOLVE COMPLEX FORMING CHALLENGES.

Tooling Selection, Design & Fixturing

• Selects and utilizes all standard and specialty tooling required for production.
• Identifies the need for custom tooling or fixturing and assists in the conceptual design to support complex part production.
• Advises engineering during new part blank development when geometry does not immediately conform to specification.
• Safely uses tooling and fixturing according to manufacturer and facility guidelines.

Quality Assurance & Inspection

• Reads and interprets engineering drawings, bend notes, tolerances, and specification requirements.
• Measures and inspects parts independently using calipers, micrometers, height gauges, protractors, and other precision measuring devices.
• Verifies incoming material meets requirements prior to forming.
• Reviews parts for conformity to workmanship standards and documents findings.
• Completes required quality documentation including In-Process and Final Audit Reports.

Documentation, Traceability & Compliance

• Accurately completes production paperwork, including quality records, timekeeping, and traceability documentation.
• Correctly fills out part identification tags and maintains traceability throughout the production process.
• Supports the company's Quality Policy and Quality Objectives.
• Ensures all measurement instruments used are properly calibrated and reports any equipment concerns.

Safety, Housekeeping & Workplace Standards

• Maintains a clean, organized, and safe work area in accordance with 6S and facility housekeeping guidelines.
• Fulfills PPE, machine guarding, and safety procedures as outlined in the Safety Policy.
• Identifies and reports potential hazards or unsafe conditions to supervision immediately.

Training, Leadership & Continuous Improvement

• Trains and mentors Class 1 and Class 2 brake press operators on setups, operation, quality inspection, and safe work practices.
• Applies On-The-Job Training from the Cell Supervisor to maintain current skills.
• Supports the Cell Leader with continuous improvement initiatives related to efficiency, quality, safety, and tooling optimization.
• Participates in process improvement discussions and contributes recommendations for enhanced manufacturability.

Required Qualifications

• Extensive experience operating CNC press brakes, including advanced setups and program adjustments.
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting engineering prints, bend drawings, and tight-tolerance specifications.
• Strong knowledge of tooling selection, bend allowance/deduction principles, and material behavior.
• Skilled in the use of precision measurement tools (calipers, micrometers, height gauges, protractors).
• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot forming issues and identify corrective actions independently.
• Ability to design or assist in the design of custom fixtures and special tooling.
• Strong communication skills and ability to mentor peers.
• High level of accuracy, reliability, and professional accountability.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods while operating machinery.
• Regular lifting, bending, and handling of sheet metal materials and tooling (weight based on facility requirements).
• Sufficient hand-eye coordination and dexterity to operate machine controls and handle precision measuring tools.
• Ability to wear required PPE including safety glasses, gloves, steel-toe footwear, and hearing protection as needed.

Schedule

48 hours per week

Benefits

• 401(k) / Matching
• Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Health Savings Account
• Life Insurance
• PTO

Alacriant is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer