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Press Brake Operator (Experienced) 1st Shift

T&D Metal Products
Watseka, IL Full Time
POSTED ON 7/20/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 11/16/2026

About us

Position: Press Brake Operator (Experienced) Level II or Level III

Reports to: Departmental Supervisor

Mission: Our commitment is to deliver value to our customers through the provision of top-notch products and services. We remain steadfast in our pursuit of enhancing our safety, quality, and professional capabilities for continuous improvement.

Essential Responsibilities

Level II operators must be able to:

Measurement and Tool Use

  • Accurately read and use a tape measure
  • Properly operate calipers, protractor, and veneer scale
  • Use radius gauges to check part dimensions when required

Print Reading and Setup

  • Understand and read angles and dimensions on blueprints
  • Demonstrate basic print reading skills
  • Identify and select correct dies for proper part forming
  • Set dies with clear direction and support
  • Independently set up dies and punches

Machine Operation and Adjustments

  • Operate equipment to run parts as instructed
  • Perform minor ram adjustments with assistance
  • Make minor back gauge adjustments with assistance
  • Adjust ram settings without assistance
  • Adjust back gauges as needed for production
  • Make basic edits or adjustments to existing CNC programs

Inspection and Quality

  • Inspect parts against print specifications with guidance
  • Independently inspect parts to ensure they meet print specifications
  • Perform continuous inspections, comparing products to approved samples to ensure compliance with customer specifications and ISO/TS standards

Level III Requirements

(Level III includes all Level II responsibilities plus the following advanced competencies)

Level III operators must demonstrate a higher level of independence, technical expertise, and leadership.

Advanced Technical Skills

  • Independently set up dies and punches with consistent accuracy
  • Adjust ram settings and back gauges without assistance and with precision
  • Determine bend line centers with accuracy
  • Determine bend lines directly from prints
  • Read and interpret complex customer prints, including split datum lines
  • Use radius gauges to accurately check both inside and outside radii
  • Perform final part checks against prints with confidence and accuracy

CNC Programming

  • Adjust existing CNC programs as needed
  • Create and save new CNC programs

Leadership and Development

  • Train and support the development of other employees
  • Serve as a knowledgeable resource within the department
  • Actively contribute to continuous improvement initiatives
  • Operate with minimal supervision

Key Attributes

All Level II and Level III employees are expected to demonstrate the following attributes:

  • Maintain reliable attendance, working scheduled hours and overtime as required to complete tasks accurately and on time.
  • Keep the workspace clean, organized, and efficient in support of safety and productivity standards.
  • Provide timely and accurate feedback to co-workers and management.
  • Communicate effectively with colleagues and leadership to promote teamwork and collaboration.
  • Follow all company policies, procedures, and regulatory standards, including ISO, TS16949, and safety guidelines.
  • Accept responsibilities and direction with a positive attitude, treating others with respect and professionalism.
  • Demonstrate integrity, professionalism, and a strong work ethic, serving as a positive example within the department.

Must be able to stand and walk for the duration of the shift; frequently bend, stoop, kneel, and reach; regularly lift up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift heavier materials with assistance; perform repetitive hand and arm movements in a manufacturing environment.

Benefits Overview

We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the health, financial security, and overall well being of our employees and their families:

  • Competitive pay based on experience
  • Health insurance
  • Dental and vision insurance
  • Paid time off and paid company holidays
  • Employer paid basic life insurance
  • Voluntary life insurance for employee, spouse, and child or children
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company match
  • Employer paid short term disability and long-term disability insurance

T&D Metal Products is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, veteran status, or any other protected status.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $20.00 - $28.00 per hour

Benefits:

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

Application Question(s):

  • Have you trained or mentored other operators? How have you supported team members or contributed to process improvements within your department?
  • Describe your experience setting up press brake machines. Are you able to independently select and set up dies and punches without supervision? Please provide examples.
  • What level of blueprint reading experience do you have? Are you comfortable interpreting complex prints? (Intermediate or expert skills required)
  • Can you independently adjust ram settings and back gauges for production runs? How do you determine bend line centers and verify inside and outside radii? (Please describe in detail)
  • Have you edited existing CNC programs? Have you created and saved new CNC programs from scratch? Please describe your experience in detail.
  • Have you ever been employed by T&D Metal Products? If so, please indicate the dates of your employment and the positions you held.

Experience:

  • basic measurement equipment: 3 years (Required)
  • Quality control: 3 years (Preferred)
  • Blueprint reading: 2 years (Required)
  • press brake operator: 2 years (Required)

Shift availability:

  • Day Shift (Required)
  • Night Shift (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $20 - $28

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