Brake Press Setup Operator

Position Summary

Set up, operate, and maintain press brake equipment to bend and form sheet metal components according to blueprints, engineering drawings, and production requirements. Independently prepare equipment and verify that completed parts meet specifications while maintaining safe, efficient production.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Independently set up and operate press brake equipment, including manual and computer-controlled press brakes.
• Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, work orders, and production specifications.
• Select and install appropriate tooling and dies; determine bend sequences and adjust machine settings.
• Produce and inspect first-piece parts; verify dimensions and bend angles using calipers, micrometers, tape measures, and other measuring instruments.
• Adjust machine settings and troubleshoot common setup or quality issues to produce conforming parts.
• Monitor production quality and conduct routine operator-level equipment upkeep.
• Maintain production records, setup documentation, and required inspection paperwork.
• Follow company safety procedures and use required personal protective equipment.
• Keep work areas clean and communicate tooling, equipment, and quality concerns to supervisors.
• Support training of less-experienced operators and work with production, quality, engineering, and maintenance teams to resolve issues.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Hands-on experience setting up and operating press brakes, not only operating machines already set up by others.
• Ability to read blueprints and produce accurate parts from drawings.
• Ability to select tooling, adjust bend angles and machine settings, and inspect completed parts.
• Knowledge of sheet metal fabrication and precision measuring tools.
• Ability to work independently, troubleshoot common problems, and follow safety procedures.

Preferred Qualifications

• Two or more years of press brake operation and setup experience.
• Experience with Cincinnati CB/CB11, Amada HFE/HG, Bystronic, or similar press brake equipment.
• Experience working in a manufacturing or metal fabrication environment.
• Basic computer skills and experience with manufacturing documentation.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods.
• Ability to frequently lift up to 35 pounds.
• Ability to bend, reach, and work around manufacturing equipment.
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).

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