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Brake Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Press Brake Operator

Lapeer, MI ยท On-site

$16.75 - $22/hr

As a Press Brake Operator, you will be responsible for setting up and operating press brake machines to bend, form, and shape metal sheets according to specifications. This is a crucial role in our ...

Press Brake Operator

Hanover, PA ยท On-site

$18 - $20/hr

As a Press Brake Operator, you will be part of the manufacturing department supporting various production teams. The ideal candidate will have strong attention to detail, the ability to make ...

Press Brake Operator

Pembroke, NH ยท On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Press Brake Operator Job Responsibilities Include * Set up and operate CNC press brake machines to bend, form, or punch metals. * Interpret blueprints, production orders, and specs to meet dimensions ...

Press Brake Operator

Hanover, PA ยท On-site

$18 - $20/hr

As a Press Brake Operator, you will be part of the manufacturing department supporting various production teams. The ideal candidate will have strong attention to detail, the ability to make ...

Press Brake Operator

Gastonia, NC ยท On-site

$15.25 - $20/hr

As a Press Brake Operator, you will play a crucial role in our production process by utilizing your expertise in reading blueprints, operating press brake machinery, and ensuring the accurate cutting ...

Press Brake Operator

Libertyville, IL ยท On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Press brake Operator | Job Summary * The Press Brake Operator is responsible for setting up and operating press brake machines to bend, form, and shape metal components according to specifications.

Press Brake Operator

Grove City, OH ยท On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Press Brake Operator We are searching for an experienced Press Brake Operator at our Grove City, OH facility. Company Benefits: Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability (STD), and Long-Term Disability ...

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Press Brake Operator

Kent, WA ยท On-site

$20 - $32/hr

Press Brake Operator (Level I / II) - Aerospace Manufacturing Location: Kent, WA Shift: Mon - Fri ; 6am - 2:30pm Mon-Thurs 2pm-12:30am ($2/hr shift differential) *Training on day shift for approx. 4 ...

Press Brake Operator

Gary, IN ยท On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Press Brake Operators - EXPERIENCED (2+ years) Job Type: Full-time Pay: From $21.00 per hour Our client, a fast-paced, growing metal fabrication company, is looking to hire skilled press brake ...

Press Brake Operator

Libertyville, IL ยท On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Press brake Operator | Job Summary * The Press Brake Operator is responsible for setting up and operating press brake machines to bend, form, and shape metal components according to specifications.

Press Brake Operator

Gastonia, NC ยท On-site

$16.75 - $21.75/hr

As a Press Brake Operator, you will play a crucial role in our production process by utilizing your expertise in reading blueprints, operating press brake machinery, and ensuring the accurate cutting ...

Showing results 41-60

Brake Operator information

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$13

$18

$23

How much do brake operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 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 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.

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 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 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.

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 parts. Salaries can vary based on certifications, shift differentials, and company size.

Is a press brake operator a good job?

A press brake operator is a skilled manufacturing role responsible for bending metal sheets using a press brake machine. It offers steady employment opportunities, requires attention to safety protocols, and often involves working in a manufacturing or fabrication environment. The job can provide a stable career with opportunities for skill development and advancement.
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Infographic showing various Brake Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 37% Full Time, 61% 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.

Press Brake Operator

3-Dimensional Services Group

Lapeer, MI โ€ข On-site

$16.75 - $22/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

3-Dimensional Services Group is currently seeking a skilled Press Brake Operator to join our team in Lapeer forย first shift. As a Press Brake Operator, you will be responsible for setting up and operating press brake machines to bend, form, and shape metal sheets according to specifications. This is a crucial role in our manufacturing process, ensuring the production of high-quality metal components.

Responsibilities:
- Set up and operate press brake machines to bend, form, and shape metal sheets
- Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and job orders to determine specifications
- Select appropriate tooling and adjust machine settings for each job
- Load and unload materials onto the machine
- Monitor machine operations to ensure proper functioning and make adjustments as needed
- Inspect finished products for quality and accuracy
- Follow safety guidelines and maintain a clean work area

Skills:
To excel in this role, you should have the following skills:
- Strong mechanical knowledge and understanding of press brake operations
- Ability to read blueprints, engineering drawings, and job orders
- Proficiency in programming press brake machines
- Basic math skills for measurements and calculations
- Familiarity with lathe operations and hand tools
- Knowledge of machining processes and techniques
- Experience using micrometers for precision measurements
- Familiarity with operating cranes for material handling

If you are a detail-oriented individual with a passion for precision metalworking, we encourage you to apply for this position. Join our team and contribute to the production of high-quality metal components.

Please note that only qualified candidates will be contacted for further consideration.