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Brake Operator Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Eaton

Press Brake Operator - 3rd Shift

Waukesha, WI · On-site

$22.30/hr

Eaton's ES AMER ESS division is currently seeking a Press Brake Operator - 3rd Shift to join our team on Badger Dr. in Waukesha, WI! The hourly rate for this position is $22.30 + $2.50 shift ...

Aerotek

1st Shift Brake Press Operator

Fond Du Lac, WI · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

Job Title: 2nd Shift Press Brake Operator The 2nd Shift Press Brake Operator plays a critical role in the manufacturing process by accurately bending and shaping metal components according to precise ...

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WST FAB LLC

Press Brake Operator

Manitowoc, WI

$17.75 - $23/hr

Description Come grow with us and join our Press Brake team! With new machines being added and better technology being leveraged, we have plenty of opportunities for growth and development. We have ...

SEEK Careers Staffing

Brake Press Operator

Beaver Dam, WI · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Brake Press Operator Are you a precision-focused individual who enjoys seeing a flat sheet of metal transform into a structural masterpiece? Our Mayville client is looking for skilled Brake Press ...

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All JobsBrake Operator JobsBrake Operator Jobs in Wisconsin

Brake Operator information

See Wisconsin salary details

$14

$18

$23

How much do brake operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for brake operator in Wisconsin is $18.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $19.66 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 Wisconsin? For Brake Operator jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Brake Operator jobs in Wisconsin look for? The top searched job categories for Brake Operator jobs in Wisconsin are:
What are popular job titles related to Brake Operator jobs in WI? For Brake Operator jobs in WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Brake Operator jobs near you
Press Brake Operator - 3rd Shift

Press Brake Operator - 3rd Shift

Eaton

Waukesha, WI • On-site

$22.30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Lay out materials per blueprint instructions.

  • Set up and operate hydraulic press brake machines to form steel components.

  • Check finished pieces against prints for correct dimensions and adjust the press brake as needed.

Eaton rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 212 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

224th of 527 rated manufacturers

Job description

Eaton's ES AMER ESS division is currently seeking a Press Brake Operator - 3rd Shift to join our team on Badger Dr. in Waukesha, WI!
The hourly rate for this position is $22.30 + $2.50 shift differential per hour + $2.50/hr shift premium.
The core hours are 11 pm - 7 am. Overtime may exceed these hours and be mandatory at times.
Please note the salary information shown above is a general guideline only. Salaries are based upon candidate skills, experience, and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
This position is offering a sign-on bonus of $3,000*, less applicable withholding.
*Bonus terms:
  • Bonuses are being offered for a limited time only. Applications must be submitted on or after January 1st, 2025 to qualify.
  • Bonuses are only applicable to specific job types and shifts; additional terms and conditions may apply.
  • Associates must be employed at the time of the payout.

Why work at Eaton? Below are a few of the outstanding benefits we offer:
  • Health benefits and vacation time - available to use on day one of your employment!
  • Paid holidays - up to 12!
  • Weekly pay
  • Shift premiums - $2.50/hr for off shifts & Opportunities for overtime.
  • Career progression opportunities to cross-train in different departments and increase compensation.
  • Retirement benefits, Paid Parental Leave, Educational Assistance Program, Wellness Reimbursement, and more!

What you'll do:
The Press Brake Operator will lay out materials per blueprint instructions. They also set up and operate Hydraulic Press Brake machines of various sizes from 230T to 400T to form various sizes and gauges of steel into transformer and voltage regulator tank components.
In this function, you will:
  • Set up forming dies and punches in the press brake.
  • Enter part number information into the computer terminal. After forming a part and first-piece piece check, the operator makes the necessary corrections to the part program to adjust for variations in material.
  • Position each piece against stops and form pieces to the required angle and bends.
  • Check finished pieces against print for correct dimensions and adjust the press brake as needed.
  • Work with another operator to aside completed parts to pallet.
  • Develop computer programs for new parts.

Qualifications:
Required (Basic) Qualifications:
  • Minimum of 6 months of machining experience within a manufacturing environment
  • Eaton will not consider applicants for employment immigration sponsorship or support for this position. This means that Eaton will not support any CPT, OPT, or STEM OPT plans, F-1 to H-1B, H-1B cap registration, O-1, E-3, TN status, I-485 job portability, etc.
  • No relocation benefit is being offered for this position. Only candidates within a 50-mile radius of the work location will be considered. Active-Duty Military Service member candidates are exempt from the geographical area limitation.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or GED equivalent from an accredited institution
  • Minimum of 6 months of previous Press Brake machine operation experience.

#IND123
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Skills:
  • Ability to work overtime when required.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 LBS; bend, twist, grab, reach, stand, walk, push, pull, use both hands to lift and lower materials, and perform all other essential duties with or without reasonable accommodations

We are committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees. Employment decisions are based upon job-related reasons regardless of an applicant's race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, marital status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law.
Eaton considers qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with local laws. To request a disability-related reasonable accommodation to assist you in your job search, application or interview process, please call us at 1-800-836-6345 to discuss your specific need. Only accommodation requests will be accepted by this phone number.
We know that good benefit programs are important to employees and their families. Eaton provides various Health and Welfare benefits as well as Retirement benefits, and several programs that provide for paid and unpaid time away from work. Click here for more detail: Eaton Benefits Overview. Please note that specific programs and options available to an employee may depend on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

What Eaton employees say

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About Eaton

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Electrical equipment, appliance, and component manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cleveland, OH, US

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