Press Brake Operator

Purpose/Summary:

 A Press Brake Operator performs duties necessary to set up and operate press brake equipment to bend and form material according to customer specifications and blueprints. In addition to preparing orders according to specifications, a Press Brake Operator is responsible for proper machine set-up, communication with proceeding shifts, and the safe operation and handling of materials and equipment. 

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Work with parts and material either by moving by hand or when necessary, using jib or overhead crane and/or forklift.
• Set up and operate press brake machine to bend, form, and shape material according to blueprints and customer specifications. 
• Select appropriate tooling and adjust machine settings to achieve proper bend angles and dimensions. 
• Read and interpret blueprints, work orders, and specifications to determine job requirements. 
• Measure and inspect parts to ensure compliance with customer specifications using appropriate measuring tools.
• Complete inspection reports after verifying dimensions and quality of finished parts. 
• Perform preventative maintenance as needed including (but not limited to) cleaning machines, tooling, and work areas. 
• Communicate effectively with team members and proceeding shifts, regarding job status and any issues. 
• Complete assigned duties in accordance with safety policies and practices. This includes regard for individual safety, the safety of other employees, and the safe use of equipment in the workplace.
• Wear approved personal protective equipment such as safety shoes, gloves, and safety glasses.
• Perform other duties as needed given by the supervisor, lead person, or management. 

Working Conditions:

 Working conditions may consist of loud noise, repetitive motions, airborne particles such as metal dust and chips and exposure to moving machinery. Physical requirements include continual standing, walking, lifting, twisting with periodic bending, climbing, stooping, and crouching. 

Knowledge, Abilities, Skills:

 A minimum of one (1) year’s previous press brake or metal forming experience in an industrial atmosphere is preferred.

• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and understand bend specifications.
• Ability to read and use measuring tools such as tape measures, calipers, angle gauges, and micrometers.
• Knowledge of press brake equipment, tooling, and forming processes.
• Ability to safely operate overhead cranes and forklifts.
• Ability to perform math including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of fractions as well as converting fractions to decimals or vice versa.
• Ability to lift and move up to seventy-five pounds, as well as lift and move heavier objects with the assistance of cranes, forklifts, or another employee.
• Knowledge of general shop procedures and rules including safety precautions.
• Ability and willingness to cooperate with co-workers and work as part of a production team.

JSA (Job Safety Analysis) Press Brake Operator

 Press Brake Operators will work in an indoor shop environment with moving machinery and moderate noise levels. They will need to be able to lift, stand, bend, grasp, reach, and twist while standing for extended periods of time. 

 Risk factors for this job may include repetitive motions, awkward postures, static postures and moving heavy objects.

 Main hazards include hands and fingers due to pinch points, as well as foot, body, fall, and noise hazards. Additional hazards may include improper bending/twisting, tripping over materials, and improper use or setup of equipment. 

 Preventive measures: using the proper PPE (safety glasses, shoes, hearing protection, etc.), using the right technique when moving/lifting objects, and being aware of surroundings.