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Brake Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Vantedge

Brake Operator II

San Jose, CA · On-site

$28 - $36/hr

Job Type Full-time Description Brake Operator II Full-time Permanent Swing Shift Hourly $28.00 - $36.00 *We are not currently working with third party agencies on this role. About Us: Vantedge ...

Heat and Control

Press Brake Operator

Galesburg, IL · On-site

$17.75 - $23/hr

Press Brake Operator Job Responsibilities Include * Setup and operate computer programmable/controlled brake press machines * Must be able to plan and layout bending sequence, referring to drawings ...

Express Employment

Press Brake Operator

Hibbing, MN

$18 - $20/hr

Top Job Located in Hibbing, MN Salary: $18.00-$20.00/hour Press Brake Operator $18.00/hour | Hibbing, MN | Monday - ThursdayExpress Employment is currently recruiting for an experienced Press Brake ...

Vantedge Medical - VDB

Brake Operator II

San Jose, CA · On-site

$28 - $36/hr

Description Brake Operator II Full-time | Permanent Swing Shift | Hourly $28.00 - $36.00 *We are not currently working with third party agencies on this role. About Us: Vantedge Medical is the ...

Trident Maritime Systems

Press Brake Operator

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$18.25 - $23.50/hr

We are seeking a detail-oriented Press Brake Operator to join our team in the maritime manufacturing environment. In this role, you will be responsible for setting up and operating press brake ...

Express Employment

Press Brake Operator

Clackamas, OR

$25/hr

The Press Brake Operator will set up and operate press brake equipment to accurately form steel plates, sheets, and fabricated components. This position requires strong blueprint reading abilities ...

Vantedge Medical

Brake Operator II

San Jose, CA · On-site

$28 - $36/hr

Brake Operator II Full-time | Permanent Swing Shift | Hourly $28.00 - $36.00 *We are not currently working with third party agencies on this role. About Us: Vantedge Medical is the premier metals ...

AmeriTech Staffing, Inc.

Be Seen First

Press Brake Operator (Sheet Metal)

Deer Park, TX · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Press Brake Operator (Sheet Metal) Overview: We're looking for a Sheet Metal Press Brake Operator to join our team! As a Press Brake Operator, you will play a critical role in our production process ...

XLI Manufacturing LLC

Press Brake Operator

Stratford, CT · On-site

$19 - $24.50/hr

Press Brake Operator Reports To : Press Brake Lead Employment Type: Full-Time, On-Site Job Summary: The Press Brake Operator is responsible for operating, and maintaining press brake machines to bend ...

Trident Maritime Systems

Press Brake Operator

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$18.25 - $23.50/hr

We are seeking a detail-oriented Press Brake Operator to join our team in the maritime manufacturing environment. In this role, you will be responsible for setting up and operating press brake ...

Datrose, Inc

Press Brake Operator

Webster, NY

$22 - $30/hr

Press Brake Operator Our client is seeking a Press Brake Operator for a temporary position (W2 Only) in Webster, NY. This is an excellent opportunity for the right individual. If interested in ...

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Brake Operator information

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$23

How much do brake operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for brake operator in the United States is $18.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $19.47 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.

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Brake Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Brake Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,591 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Brake Operator II

Vantedge

San Jose, CA • On-site

$28 - $36/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Brake Operator II
Full-time Permanent
Swing Shift Hourly
$28.00 - $36.00
*We are not currently working with third party agencies on this role.
About Us:
Vantedge Medical is the premier metals-based med-tech solutions partner from concept to full-scale manufacturing. We are at the forefront of precision engineering and innovation, specializing in the development and manufacturing of vital components for medical markets such as Robotic Assisted Surgery, Orthopedics, Surgical Instruments, Dental, and more. Our teams work in unison, collaborating and problem-solving to serve the manufacturing needs of the top Medical Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) around the globe. Making a difference in the lives of patients and their families drives us to go above and beyond every day. With a steadfast commitment to advancing medical technology, we take immense pride in the work we do - and have a lot of fun doing it.
About this Opportunity:
This Brake Operator II role is responsible for the complex set-up and forming techniques & has the ability to make most adjustments to machines, controllers, and set-ups. This position is more self-directed than the Brake Operator I.
Responsibilities
  • Accepts and follows priorities assigned by the Brake Lead.
  • Run out set ups that have been proven, make changes in tooling and machine controller as needed to maintain tolerance on very specific dimensions.
  • Set up most jobs given with little to no assistance.
  • Maintain parts' dimensional conformance using dial calipers, squares, protractors, height gauges and any other measuring tool required.
  • Be productive with set ups, running parts, and know when to utilize assistance from entry-level operators as needed.
  • Help lower-level operators with set-up and measuring related issues when directed by the Brake Lead.
  • Know, perform and complete Vander-Bend Manufacturing Set-Up sheets for every job when completed.
  • Helps to keep Brake Department area clean and orderly.
  • Other duties as assigned.
  • Exercises proper judgment referring all decision-making regarding print or set-up deviation to the Brake Lead or Supervisor.

Requirements
Education and Experience
  • Minimum 2 years as a Brake Operator, with an additional 2 years related of other shop experience.
  • Ability to read and write and understand written documents.

Knowledge / Skills
  • Must visually know the difference between metals, such as aluminum and steel.
  • Must know how to use dial calipers, squares, protractor and most any other measuring tool.
  • Must know how to use a calculator, have basic math skills, such as addition subtraction, multiplication and division, and some trigonometry. Use of "k" factors and know how to figure a "k" factor. Use of shop math to perform simple to complex part "back-checks".
  • Must have good layout skills for forming as it pertains to form direction, angles and setting up.
  • Must know third angle projection as it pertains to print interpretation, and understand print call outs, notes and some geometric tolerances.
  • Must have good counting skills and keep accurate counts.
  • Should have some computer skills and know the Amada 9-EX controller very well.
  • Know, understand and practice the Vander-Bend First Piece Inspection Process.

Physical Requirements
Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally and/or up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.
Salary Description
$28.00-$36.00

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