CNC Shear & Punch Press Operator

Job Summary
We are seeking a dependable and experienced CNC Shear & Punch Press Operator to join our manufacturing team. This position is responsible for setting up and operating CNC-controlled shearing and punching equipment used to process metal materials according to production requirements, drawings, and specifications.

The ideal candidate has previous experience with CNC metal fabrication equipment, strong mechanical aptitude, and the ability to work independently while maintaining a high level of safety, quality, and accuracy.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC shear and punch press equipment according to production requirements.
• Review work orders, drawings, specifications, and other production documentation before beginning each job.
• Verify the correct material, gauge/thickness, dimensions, quantities, and other job requirements.
• Select or load CNC programs and enter or verify machine settings and job information as required.
• Set up applicable tooling, punches, dies, blades, stops, guides, and other machine components.
• Load, position, process, and unload metal materials safely and efficiently.
• Perform first-piece inspections and monitor parts throughout production to ensure they meet required specifications and tolerances.
• Use tape measures, squares, calipers, micrometers, gauges, and other measuring tools to verify completed work.
• Inspect finished parts for dimensional accuracy, hole placement, cut quality, burrs, deformation, and other defects.
• Make appropriate machine or setup adjustments to maintain product quality.
• Monitor machine operation and recognize abnormal sounds, movements, alarms, tooling conditions, or other signs of improper operation.
• Troubleshoot routine machine, tooling, setup, and production issues within the scope of the position.
• Perform routine operator-level equipment care and preventive maintenance as assigned.
• Accurately record production quantities, scrap, downtime, and other required production information.
• Maintain an organized and safe work area.
• Work cooperatively with supervisors, maintenance, quality, material handlers, and other production employees.
• Follow all company safety policies, operating procedures, and quality requirements.

Qualifications

• Previous experience operating a CNC punch press, CNC shear, or similar CNC metal fabrication equipment strongly preferred.
• Previous manufacturing, metal fabrication, or metal-processing experience preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret work orders, drawings, prints, and production specifications.
• Ability to accurately read a tape measure and perform basic shop math.
• Ability to work with fractions, decimals, dimensions, and tolerances.
• Experience using measuring tools such as calipers, micrometers, squares, and gauges.
• Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to understand machine setup, tooling, and basic troubleshooting.
• Basic computer and machine-interface skills.
• Ability to recognize quality problems and make appropriate adjustments.
• Ability to work independently after training and maintain attention to detail.
• Dependable attendance and a strong work ethic are required.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the workday.
• Ability to frequently bend, reach, push, pull, grasp, and handle materials and tooling.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds independently. Heavier or awkward materials are handled using team lifting or appropriate mechanical assistance.
• Ability to safely position and maneuver metal materials and completed parts.
• Ability to work around moving machinery, metal materials, sharp edges, noise, vibration, and varying temperatures.
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment.

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person