Press Operator I

Operates one or more manually cycled press equipment to perform punching, shearing, and shaping operations on steel and aluminum components. Responsible for material loading, part alignment, machine activation, and in-process quality checks while maintaining a clean and safe work area. Develops process knowledge through daily hands-on operation and supports continuous production flow.

SUMMARY: Responsible for safely operating one or more manually loaded and cycled presses to produce steel and aluminum bar components used in grating products. This includes running equipment to perform punching, shearing, and serrating operations in accordance with standard production rates and quality specifications. Core responsibilities include safely loading material, aligning parts, cycling the press, and monitoring quality throughout each run. The operator adjusts air clamps, lubrication cycles, and basic machine settings as needed. Daily tasks also include fluid and safety checks, minor maintenance, and accurate ERP reporting for material use and output. The role requires familiarity with various materials, safe handling practices using overhead equipment, and the ability to identify operational issues that impact quality or uptime. A strong attention to safety, process consistency, and quality control is essential to success in this role.

As a faith-based organization rooted in biblical principles, we strive to reflect these values in our work, relationships, and decision-making. We expect all associates to learn, embrace, and actively model our core values through their actions, choices, and collaboration with others. This commitment is essential to sustaining our culture and achieving shared success.

This job description does not describe all activities, duties, responsibilities, or physical demands that are required of the employee for this job.  Likewise, the work environment described is merely representative. Duties, responsibilities, activities, physical demands, and work environment may change at any time with or without notice.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Operate manual press equipment to perform punching, shearing, or serrating operations on carbon steel, stainless steel, and aluminum bars or shapes, running at established production standards and meeting quality requirements.
• Load raw material onto press tables using forklifts and align bars to end gauges or spacers to ensure accurate punching.
• Activate and cycle the press using control panel hand trips or foot pedals based on part requirements and safety conditions.
• Set and adjust air clamps, end gauges, spacing indicators, and die oil application frequency to match each job's specifications.
• Assist in setups and changeovers
• Perform basic machine PM’s as required
• Verify proper die setup and inspect for wear, damage, or scrap buildup; clean and lubricate die and press components as needed.
• Complete pre-shift maintenance checks including fluid levels, air bleed reservoirs, and safety components.
• Use spacing tools or secondary positioning techniques to support multiple-punch operations when required.
• Monitor and maintain part quality during runs, ensuring tolerance adherence and lubrication as needed.
• Complete accurate production reporting and material tracking using ERP software (e.g., Epicor), including job start/end, material usage, and tagging.
• Move finished product to designated staging or roller tables and ensure accurate banding and identification.
• Clear and dispose of press scrap regularly, keeping the press area clean and free of obstruction or debris.
• Follow all safety procedures, including proper use of E-stops, lockout/tagout practices, and PPE compliance.

EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE, AND PROFICIENCIES: A high school diploma or equivalent is required. Candidates must have the ability to read and interpret job travelers, procedures, and instructions. Proficiency in reading tape measures and scales, along with performing mathematical operations using whole numbers and fractions in both standard and metric units, is essential. Experience with various hand and power tools is also required.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee will encounter repetitive movement tasks, requiring standing, walking, stooping, bending, reaching, grasping, pushing, and pulling grating material of various sizes and weights for long periods of time. The employee must regularly lift or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift or move up to 75 pounds, using proper lifting techniques, help from another employee, or other available resources such as lifting or moving equipment. The role also requires the ability to take stairs, work around constantly moving machinery, and exposure to weather elements.

WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. The employee will be regularly working on the production floor, requiring the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Exposure to noise, dust, heat, and cold is regular, as is exposure to machine and tool hazards requiring care and attention to safety rules and standards.

EEO STATEMENT: Our company provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic or status protected under local, state, or federal laws.