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Brake Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Insight Global

CNC Sheet Metal Operator

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Experience operating a press brake (Amada preferred) and laser machine, accounting for precise measurements, cuts, and bends. Experience working with aluminum, brass, copper, and steel materials.

Pro-Vac

Hydrovac Operator - Manassas*

Manassas, VA

$70K - $100K/yr

A licensed Class A or Class B CDL Driver with Tanker & Air Brake Endorsements A positive and motivated self-starter! * An experienced vac-truck operator looking to expand your career * Able to ...

Pro-Vac

Hydrovac Operator - Manassas

Manassas, VA · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

A licensed Class A or Class B CDL Driver with Tanker & Air Brake Endorsements A positive and motivated self-starter! * An experienced vac-truck operator looking to expand your career * Able to ...

Pro-Vac

Hydrovac Operator - Manassas

Manassas, VA · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

A licensed Class A or Class B CDL Driver with Tanker & Air Brake Endorsements A positive and motivated self-starter! * An experienced vac-truck operator looking to expand your career * Able to ...

Pro-Vac

Hydrovac Operator - Manassas

Manassas, VA · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

A licensed Class A or Class B CDL Driver with Tanker & Air Brake Endorsements A positive and motivated self-starter! * An experienced vac-truck operator looking to expand your career * Able to ...

Pro-Vac

Hydrovac Operator - Manassas

Manassas, VA

$70K - $100K/yr

A licensed Class A or Class B CDL Driver with Tanker & Air Brake Endorsements A positive and motivated self-starter! * An experienced vac-truck operator looking to expand your career * Able to ...

Aerotek

Machine Operator

Chester, VA

$22/hr

CNC Machine Operator - Metal Fabrication This role involves operating specialized CNC and ... Operate saws, brake presses, and other specialized metal bending equipment, making manual ...

RMA Worldwide

Motorcoach Operator

Richmond, VA · On-site

$19/hr

Operators must conduct a pre- check and post-check of vehicles to ensure the cleanliness and ... Vehicle Inspection/ Safety check * CDL Driver's license with Air brake and Passenger Endorsements

Aerotek

CNC Machine Operator

Richmond, VA

$20 - $27.50/hr

... tables, brake presses/press brakes, shears, band saws, and CNC saws. * Transfer layout data ... Experience operating overhead cranes and rigging heavy materials safely in an industrial ...

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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 Jun 10, 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 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.

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
Fabrication C - (Sheetmetal Tech) 3rd Shift)

Fabrication C - (Sheetmetal Tech) 3rd Shift)

L3 Harris

Chesapeake, VA • On-site

$16.75 - $22.50/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

L3Harris rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 249 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

105th of 516 rated manufacturers

Job description

L3Harris is dedicated to recruiting and developing high-performing talent who are passionate about what they do. Our employees are unified in a shared dedication to our customers' mission and quest for professional growth. L3Harris provides an inclusive, engaging environment designed to empower employees and promote work-life success. Fundamental to our culture is an unwavering focus on values, dedication to our communities, and commitment to excellence in everything we do.
L3Harris is the Trusted Disruptor in defense tech. With customers' mission-critical needs always in mind, our employees deliver end-to-end technology solutions connecting the space, air, land, sea and cyber domains in the interest of national security.
Job Title: Fabrication C - (Sheetmetal Tech) 3rd Shift)
Job Code: 37280
Job Locatio n: Norfolk, VA
Job Schedule: 5/8 Work Schedule - (Monday thru Friday)
Job Description:
L3Harris is seeking an experienced CNC Laser and Press Brake Operator/Fabricator to join our Norfolk VA team on 3 rd shift. The Press Brake operator will have expertise in sheet metal fabrication and mechanical assembly.
Essential Functions:
  • Program, set up, and operate CNC press brake and laser equipment
  • Proficiently interpret drawings and work packages while maintaining attention to detail and understanding precision tolerances. Measure precision parts using calibrated instruments.
  • Fabricate new parts or repair existing ones as needed in manufacturing processes
  • and related machine tooling
  • Troubleshoot minor programming and mechanical issues as needed
  • Operate manual machines such as lathes, mills, drills and machinist hand tools.
  • Measure precision parts using calibrated instruments.
  • Understand and operate conversational milling machines and Acu-Rite digital readouts.
  • Work with various materials to produce high-quality products that meet drawing specifications.
  • Plan the sequence of necessary actions to complete a job.

Qualifications:
  • High School Diploma or equivalent
  • Minimum 5 years of experience in CNC Press brake/laser operation in a manufacturing setting
  • Skilled in fabricating, fitting, and assembling precision parts per drawings
  • Basic understanding of precision sheet metal, encompassing flat layouts, bend deductions,
  • Ability to work 3 rd shift.

Preferred Additional Skills:
  • Have a proven track record of reliability, responsibility, safety, and solid organizational skills.
  • Strong communication and teaming skills.
  • Proficient in installing threaded inserts and various hardware components into parts
  • Excellent attention to detail.
  • Willingness to work in a fast-paced production environment

#LI-RTC1
L3Harris Technologies is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. L3Harris is committed to treating all employees and applicants for employment with respect and dignity and maintaining a workplace that is free from unlawful discrimination. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding or other related medical conditions), gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, characteristic or membership in any other group protected by federal, state or local laws. L3Harris maintains a drug-free workplace and performs pre-employment substance abuse testing and background checks, where permitted by law.
Please be aware many of our positions require the ability to obtain a security clearance. Security clearances may only be granted to U.S. citizens. In addition, applicants who accept a conditional offer of employment may be subject to government security investigation(s) and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.
By submitting your resume for this position, you understand and agree that L3Harris Technologies may share your resume, as well as any other related personal information or documentation you provide, with its subsidiaries and affiliated companies for the purpose of considering you for other available positions.
L3Harris Technologies is an E-Verify Employer. Please click here for the E-Verify Poster in English or Spanish . For information regarding your Right To Work, please click here for English or Spanish .

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