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Brake Operator Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Press Brake Operator - 2nd Shift

Ixonia, WI ยท On-site

$18.75 - $24.50/hr

K&S Manufacturing is a privately held, financially sound and growing company seeking a Press Brake Operator to join our team. In business since 1974, we are a vertically integrated leader in the ...

New

Brake Press

Port Washington, WI ยท On-site

$20 - $22/hr

  • Medical

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  • Retirement

  • PTO

POSITION - Brake Press Operator JOB LOCATION - Port Washington, WI STARTING DATE - Immediate EMPLOYMENT TERM - Temp to Hire EMPLOYMENT TYPE - Full Time WORK HOURS (SHIFT) - 2nd Shift, Monday-Thursday ...

Brake Press Operator Location: Chilton, WI Shift: 3rd Shift, 10:30 PM - 6:00 AM Overview We are seeking a skilled Brake Press Operator to join our team in Chilton, WI. If you have a passion for ...

New

Brake Press Operator

Oshkosh, WI ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Brake Press Operator Oshkosh manufacturer is looking to add experienced brake press operators on their first and second shifts! If you have one year or more experience and are looking for a new ...

Showing results 41-60

Brake Operator information

See Wisconsin salary details

$14

$18

$23

How much do brake operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 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 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.

Is a press brake operator a good job?

A press brake operator is a skilled manufacturing role that involves shaping metal sheets using a press brake machine. It offers steady employment opportunities, especially in manufacturing and fabrication industries, and requires attention to safety protocols and mechanical skills. The job can be physically demanding and may involve shift work, but it provides a clear career path with potential for skill development and advancement.

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 and other materials.

What does a brake operator do?

A brake operator is responsible for operating and maintaining brake machinery used in manufacturing or metalworking processes. They set up, adjust, and monitor brake presses to shape metal parts according to specifications, often using hand tools and safety equipment. Attention to detail and knowledge of machine operation are essential for ensuring quality and safety.

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:
Infographic showing various Brake Operator job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,943 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Press Brake Operator - 2nd Shift

K&S Manufacturing

Ixonia, WI โ€ข On-site

$18.75 - $24.50/hr

Full-time, Other

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

Description:

K&S Manufacturing is a privately held, financially sound and growing company seeking a Press Brake Operator to join our team. In business since 1974, we are a vertically integrated leader in the field of metal fabrication. We are primed for continued growth and expansion through laser cutting, brake forming, robotic and manual welding, stamping, machining, and tool and die. This is a full-time position on 2nd shift (2pm-12am) including a 2nd shift, shift differential. Employees are stationed in a 100% air-conditioned facility.


Key Responsibilities

  • Be able to read customer and internal drawings.
  • Program, set up, and operate Bystronic or Accurpress Press Brakes.
  • Inspect the parts produced by comparing the parts to blueprint using height stand, calipers, and other specialized measuring devices.
  • Be able to run production efficiently as well as working with engineering on prototyping projects.
  • Work within customer and internal tolerances and specifications.
  • Complete and maintain accurate shop paperwork.
  • Perform daily 6S duties.


Requirements:
  • Minimum of 1-year prior Press Brake experience.
  • Must have excellent problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to use height stand, caliper, micrometer, protractor, radius gage, etc.
  • Ability to perform machine setups, tooling changes, and make basic programming adjustments.
  • Must have a solid working knowledge of blueprint reading and shop math.
  • Possess a drive for achieving production, while focusing on safety and quality.
  • Capable of working in a team environment.
  • Ability to lift up to 50-pounds.
  • Must be reliable and have good attendance.

Qualifications Preferred

  • High school diploma or GED.
  • Forklift experience.
  • Experience with ERP or manufacturing software.
  • Previous experience in a metal fabrication or contract manufacturing environment.
  • Ability to cross-train on additional fabrication equipment, such as lasers, punches, or welding equipment.

CONFIDENTIALITY AND DISCRETION

Must maintain the confidentiality of all company and customer information and must not discuss such matters outside of K&S. Tact and discretion must be used in all dealings with all customers and potential customers to maintain a positive image of K&S Manufacturing.