Senior Press Brake Operator- Night Shift

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.

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.
• Ensures tooling and fixturing are used safely, efficiently, and within 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.
• Understands and 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.
• Follows all 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.
• Receives and 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.
• Actively 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).
• Ability to maneuver large or awkward components safely during setups and production.
• 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.

Work Environment

• Manufacturing environment with exposure to machinery, noise, and fabricated metal parts.
• Work area may involve exposure to sharp edges, metal burrs, lubricants, and machine oils.
• Must follow all company safety, 6S, and housekeeping standards to maintain an organized workspace.
• Regular interaction with fabrication equipment, team members, engineering, and quality personnel.
• Requires focus and situational awareness to ensure safe operation of CNC press brake equipment.