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Brake Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Blueprint Automation

Press Brake Operator

Colonial Heights, VA · On-site

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

The Press Brake Operator is responsible for setting up, operating and maintaining CNC press brake machines to bend, shape and form metal parts according to blueprints and specifications. Duties ...

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 22, 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 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 2% 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

Surge Staffing

Colonial Heights, VA

$22 - $25/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

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 metal components according to precise specifications. The ideal candidate has hands-on fabrication experience, strong blueprint reading skills, and a commitment to producing high-quality work.

Key Responsibilities

  • Set up and operate CNC press brake machines to produce metal parts to specification
  • Read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and work orders
  • Select appropriate tooling, dies, and machine settings for each job
  • Calculate bend allowances, material stretch-out, and bend lengths
  • Inspect finished products to ensure accuracy and quality standards are met
  • Perform routine maintenance and keep work area clean and safe
  • Troubleshoot machine or production issues and make necessary adjustments

Qualifications

  • 1-3 years of experience in a manufacturing or fabrication environment
  • Experience operating and setting up press brake machines
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings
  • Strong math skills related to measurements and material calculations
  • High attention to detail and quality

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER: Surge is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, or any other status protected by law. Surge is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities.

IND2

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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