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Brake Operator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Matthews Professional Employment

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Press Brake Operator

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Press Brake Operator This role is responsible for setting up and operating press brake equipment to fabricate precision sheet metal components according to customer specifications. The ideal ...

Heat and Control

Press Brake Operator

Galesburg, IL · On-site

$17.75 - $23/hr

Press Brake Operator Job Responsibilities Include * Setup and operate computer programmable/controlled brake press machines * Must be able to plan and layout bending sequence, referring to drawings ...

LVHM BUYER LLC

Press Brake Operator

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Press brake Operator | Job Summary * The Press Brake Operator is responsible for setting up and operating press brake machines to bend, form, and shape metal components according to specifications.

LVHM BUYER LLC

Press Brake Operator

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Press brake Operator | Job Summary * The Press Brake Operator is responsible for setting up and operating press brake machines to bend, form, and shape metal components according to specifications.

The Reserves Network Inc

Press Brake Operator

Crete, IL

$24 - $30/hr

Press Brake Operator | $24-$30 an Hour | Mon-Fri 7 :00 AM- 3 : 3 0 PM |Temp to Hire What Matters Most * Competitive Pay of $24.00-$$30 per hour based on experience * Schedule: Mon.-Fri. 7:00 AM-3:30 ...

John Boos & Co.

Press Brake Operator

Effingham, IL · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Press Brake Operator - 1st Shift POSITION OVERVIEW Responsible for operating the Press Brake Machines and supporting the production team by assembling parts, operating machinery, and punching or ...

Fabmax Opco LLC

Press Brake Operator

Wood Dale, IL · On-site

$18.25 - $23.75/hr

We are seeking a skilled Press Brake Operator with experience operating Amada press brake machines to fabricate high-quality metal components. The ideal candidate will be responsible for setup ...

Hennig

Press Brake Operator

Rockford, IL · On-site

$18.25 - $23.75/hr

At least 1 years' experience as a Bender/Press Brake Operator * Ability to stand for duration of shift * Experience operating Forklift and Overhead Cranes a plus. * Must keep a clean and safe working ...

Ludlow Manufacturing

Press Brake Operator

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$20 - $28/hr

Press Brake Operator 📍 Location: Ludlow Manufacturing, Waukegan 💲 Pay: $20 - $28/hour (based on experience) Full Benefits Package after 90 days 1st shift 7:00AM - 3:30PM Monday -Thursday 2nd ...

HENNIG INC

Press Brake Operator

Rockford, IL · On-site

$18.25 - $23.75/hr

At least 1 years' experience as a Bender/Press Brake Operator * Ability to stand for duration of shift * Experience operating Forklift and Overhead Cranes a plus. * Must keep a clean and safe working ...

Hennig Inc

Press Brake Operator

Rockford, IL · On-site

$18.25 - $23.75/hr

At least 1 years' experience as a Bender/Press Brake Operator * Ability to stand for duration of shift * Experience operating Forklift and Overhead Cranes a plus. * Must keep a clean and safe working ...

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All JobsBrake Operator JobsBrake Operator Jobs in Illinois

Brake Operator information

See Illinois salary details

$13

$17

$22

How much do brake operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for brake operator in Illinois is $17.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $18.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a brake operator?

Brake Operators are skilled workers responsible for operating machines called press brakes, which are used to bend, shape, and form sheet metal and other materials. They read blueprints or production drawings to determine the appropriate machine settings, adjust the equipment, and ensure that finished products meet precise specifications. Brake Operators play a key role in manufacturing industries, particularly in metal fabrication and automotive sectors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a brake operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Brake Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by on-the-job training. Familiarity with press brake machines, measurement tools like calipers and micrometers, and safety certifications such as OSHA training are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help operators excel in fast-paced manufacturing environments. These skills ensure precise fabrication, maintain workplace safety, and contribute to efficient production processes.

What are some typical challenges a brake operator faces during daily operations?

Brake Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining precision while forming metal parts, ensuring safety around heavy machinery, and meeting tight production deadlines. Accuracy and attention to detail are critical, as mistakes can lead to material waste or equipment damage. Staying updated with machine maintenance procedures and effectively communicating with team members helps address these challenges and ensures smooth workflow in a manufacturing environment.

What is the difference between Brake Operator vs Press Brake Operator?

AspectBrake OperatorPress Brake Operator
CertificationsOften requires OSHA safety training, equipment operation certificationsSimilar certifications, including safety and machine operation
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, metal fabrication shopsMetalworking shops, manufacturing facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesOperate brake presses to bend metal sheetsSet up and operate press brakes for precise bending
Industry UsageCommon in metal fabrication, manufacturingCommon in sheet metal work, manufacturing

Both roles involve operating metal bending equipment and require safety certifications. The main difference is that a Brake Operator may refer broadly to operating various brake machines, while a Press Brake Operator specifically focuses on using press brakes for precise metal bending tasks. They often overlap in work environment and certifications, but the Press Brake Operator role emphasizes detailed setup and operation of press brakes for complex projects.

How much do brake operators make?

Brake operators typically earn an average annual salary of around $40,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. They often work in manufacturing or transportation environments, operating machinery to bend, cut, or shape metal parts. Salaries can vary based on certifications, shift differentials, and company size.

Is a press brake operator a good job?

A press brake operator is a skilled manufacturing role responsible for bending metal sheets using a press brake machine. It offers steady employment opportunities, requires attention to safety protocols, and often involves working in a manufacturing or fabrication environment. The job can provide a stable career with opportunities for skill development and advancement.

What are popular job titles related to Brake Operator jobs in IL?

For Brake Operator jobs in IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Brake Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Brake Operator job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,427 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Press Brake Operator

Matthews Professional Employment

Libertyville, IL • On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

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Job description

Press Brake Operator

This role is responsible for setting up and operating press brake equipment to fabricate precision sheet metal components according to customer specifications. The ideal candidate will have experience with machine set-ups, blueprint reading, tooling selection, quality inspections, and maintaining efficient production in a manufacturing environment.

Requirements of the Press Brake Operator

  • Bilingual English/Spanish is a plus
  • Amada, Bystronic, Trumpf, Accurpress
  • Minimum of 4 years of press brake set-up and operation experience
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints, work orders, and engineering drawings
  • Experience selecting, installing, and adjusting press brake tooling
  • Ability to perform first-piece, in-process, and final inspections using precision measuring instruments
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills
  • Experience working in a sheet metal fabrication environment is preferred
  • Experience working alongside laser cutting operations is a plus

Responsibilities of the Press Brake Operator

  • Set up and operate press brake equipment to manufacture precision sheet metal parts
  • Select and install the appropriate tooling based on production requirements
  • Read blueprints and work instructions to ensure parts meet specifications
  • Perform first-piece and in-process inspections to verify quality standards
  • Make machine adjustments as needed to maintain quality and production efficiency
  • Troubleshoot basic machine and production issues while minimizing downtime
  • Work closely with fabrication and laser departments to support production schedules
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area while following all safety and quality procedures

1st and 2nd shift available, DIRECT HIRE
Pay: $25.00–$30.00 hourly, based on experience

If you have an open application with Matthews Professional Employment, Inc., please express your interest in this position to your consultant.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position; however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.