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Brake Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Bauer Compressors

Press Brake Operator

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

The Press Brake Operator is responsible for producing quality products safely and efficiently by setting up, operating, and performing simple programming of a press brake. The Press Brake Operator ...

VFP INC

Turrett/Brake Operator

Duffield, VA

$20 - $25/hr

Job Purpose: - The Turret/Brake Operator at VFP INC is responsible for the efficient setup and operation of CNC turret presses and brake presses. This role requires expertise in computer-aided design ...

Surge Staffing

Press Brake Operator

Colonial Heights, VA · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Position Summary We are seeking a skilled Press Brake Operator to join a growing manufacturing team. This role is responsible for setting up and operating CNC press brake machines to bend and form ...

VFP Inc.

Turrett/Brake Operator

Duffield, VA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Job Purpose: - The Turret/Brake Operator at VFP INC is responsible for the efficient setup and operation of CNC turret presses and brake presses. This role requires expertise in computer-aided design ...

Modine

Press Brake Operator

Natural Bridge Station, VA · On-site

$24.23 - $25.23/hr

Assembler- Press Brake Operator Job Posting Location: Rockbridge, VA Posting Start Date: 5/15/26 Req Id: 8158 Required Travel: 0 - 10% Remote, Onsite or Hybrid?: Onsite For more than 100 years ...

Modine

Assembler-Press Brake Operator

Lexington, VA · On-site

$24.23 - $26.23/hr

Assembler- Press Brake Operator Job Posting Location: Rockbridge, VA Posting Start Date: 5/15/26 Req Id: 8158 Required Travel: 0 - 10% Remote, Onsite or Hybrid?: Onsite For more than 100 years ...

Munters

Press Brake Operator

Daleville, VA

$16.50 - $21.25/hr

Job Title: Press Brak Operator 1st shift Location: Daleville, VA Company: Munters Corporation ... Operate Press Brake working from job packets, job specific cut sheet, bend list, material usage ...

Munters

Press Brake Operator

Daleville, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $21.25/hr

Job Title: Press Brak Operator 1st shift Location: Daleville, VA Company: Munters Corporation ... Operate Press Brake working from job packets, job specific cut sheet, bend list, material usage ...

Munters

Press Brake Operator

Daleville, VA

$16.50 - $21.25/hr

Job Title: Press Brak Operator 1st shift Location: Daleville, VA Company: Munters Corporation ... Operate Press Brake working from job packets, job specific cut sheet, bend list, material usage ...

Eaton

Press Brake Operator (2nd Shift)

Williamsburg, VA · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

Eaton's ES AMER ARS division is currently seeking a Press Brake Operator (2nd Shift). The hourly rate for this position is $24 - $26 plus $1 Shift differential per hour. Please note the salary ...

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All JobsBrake Operator JobsBrake Operator Jobs in Virginia

Brake Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$13

$17

$23

How much do brake operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for brake operator in Virginia is $17.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $19.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 highest paying machine operator job?

Brake operators are specialized machine operators who work with brake presses in manufacturing. Generally, machine operators with advanced skills, certifications, or experience in industries like aerospace or oil and gas tend to earn higher wages. Supervisory or lead roles in machine operation also offer higher pay compared to entry-level positions.

What are Brake Operators?

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.

Is it hard to be a brake press operator?

Brake press operators are responsible for setting up and operating hydraulic or mechanical presses to shape metal parts, requiring attention to detail and safety awareness. The job involves understanding machine controls, reading technical drawings, and often requires physical stamina and adherence to safety protocols. While it can be physically demanding, proper training and experience help make the role manageable.

What does a brake operator do?

A brake operator is responsible for operating and maintaining brake presses and other machinery used to shape and cut metal or other materials. They set up equipment, monitor the production process, and ensure safety protocols are followed. Attention to detail and knowledge of machine operation are essential for this role.

Is there demand for brake operators?

Brake operators are in demand in manufacturing and industrial settings where machinery and equipment require precise control. Employment opportunities depend on industry growth and automation levels, with skills in machinery operation and safety protocols being important. Overall, demand remains steady in sectors that rely on manual or semi-automated brake processes.

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 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.

What are popular job titles related to Brake Operator jobs in Virginia? For Brake Operator jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Brake Operator jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Brake Operator jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Brake Operator jobs in VA? For Brake Operator jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Brake Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Brake Operator job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $37,269 per year, or $17.9 per hour.
Press Brake Operator

Press Brake Operator

Bauer Compressors

Norfolk, VA • On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

The Press Brake Operator is responsible for producing quality products safely and efficiently by setting up, operating, and performing simple programming of a press brake. The Press Brake Operator produces parts and tools from metals or other materials using a press brake, a computer numeric controlled (CNC) piece of equipment that makes precision bends, punches, or cuts into materials. The Press Brake Operator reports to the Fabrication Lead.
JOB FUNCTIONS
Include the following, but other duties may be assigned.
  • Prepare production equipment for operation by making equipment setup adjustments, assisting with equipment changeovers.
  • Setup and operate the CNC press brake to cut, bend, block, and form, or straighten metals and other materials.
  • Layout and mark dimensions and reference lines on material to develop and trace patterns of product or parts or uses templates.
  • Read and interpret blueprints, sketches, or job orders to determine product specifications and tooling instructions, and to plan operational sequences.
  • Adjust machine tooling to keep product within specified tolerances per job instructions.
  • Help train others for production job responsibilities by demonstrating operational procedures.
  • Maintain machine operation by minor troubleshooting, and monitoring machine fluid levels and operation; informing supervisor of machine-down issues.
  • Maintains production operations by following policies and procedures (equipment, raw and in-process materials, and finished goods); report needed changes.
  • Maintains safe and clean work environment by complying with procedures, rules, and regulations.
  • Contributes to team effort by accomplishing related results needed through cooperation with team members and acceptance of re-assignments as directed by supervisors.
  • Maintain workmanship standards and quality standards by conducting first-piece and in-process inspection.
  • Ensure all activities in the work area comply with company and ISO policies and procedures.
  • Select appropriate tooling for the various types of sheet metal such as galvanized iron, copper, steel, or aluminum according to product specifications.
  • Exhibit a detailed understanding of fabrication processes including bend allowances, press brake tooling, laser operations, and metal sawing operations.
  • Trim, file, grind, deburr, buff, and smooth surfaces in accordance with drawing specifications.
  • Locate and move materials with a pallet jack or forklift; move product from one operation to the next operation.
  • Regular and reliable attendance.

ESSENTIAL SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE
  • Must have a high school diploma or GED equivalent.
  • Minimum of one (1) year of fabrication experience within a manufacturing environment.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills required.
  • Proficient in using precision measuring tools.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude.
  • Proven ability to use general measuring devices such as tape measures, scales, angle finders, and metal thickness gauges.

VALUED BUT NOT REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE
  • Previous experience operating a Press Brake CNC Machine.
  • Previous experience in steel fabrication.
  • Trade school training highly preferred.
  • Read and interpret engineering drawings.
  • Experience with tools such as grinders and scalers.
  • Able to operate a forklift truck and overhead crane.
  • Proficient in Shop Floor Manager (SFM) labor reporting

REPORTING TO THIS POSITION
  • No direct reports.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT
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. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; use hands, fingers, handle, or grasp; reach with hands and arms; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and talk or hear. Vision abilities required. The employee must be able to lift and/or move up to thirty (30) pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to fifty pounds using a crane for assistance.
Normal working schedule: Monday through Thursday, 6:00am-4:30pm EST; occasional overtime and weekend hours required at times.
The noise levels in some manufacturing facilities frequently may exceed the normal dBA. The employee is required to wear all necessary personal protective equipment (safety shoes, safety glasses, hearing protection, masks, etc.) while working or when walking through the plant. In addition, the employee may be required to wear a respirator and/or dust mast depending on the nature of work performed.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts, fumes or airborne particles, and risk of electrical shock. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud.
COMPANY OVERVIEW
BAUER COMPRESSORS INC. (BCI) is recognized as the world's foremost innovative designer and manufacturer of high-pressure systems. BCI specializes in the markets of high-pressure breathing air products, GSA/military breathing air products, industrial air and gas products, plastics technology, natural gas, and inert gas compression. Headquartered in Norfolk, Virginia, BCI associates nationwide and reports to its parent company BAUER COMP Holding GmbH in Munich, Germany.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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