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Key Punch Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Special Products & Manu

Punch Press Operator

Rockwall, TX · On-site

$16.50 - $20.50/hr

Join Our Team as a Punch Operator! Do you like a fast-paced environment where accuracy, quality ... Key Responsibilities: * Maintains Punch Press (EMLK, Pegas, EMK) machine and performs the changing ...

Special Products & Manu

Punch Press Operator

Rockwall, TX

$16.50 - $20.50/hr

Join Our Team as a Punch Operator! Do you like a fast-paced environment where accuracy, quality ... Key Responsibilities: * Maintains Punch Press (EMLK, Pegas, EMK) machine and performs the changing ...

Industrial Fabricators

Laser Punch Operator

Gastonia, NC · On-site

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

Key Responsibilities * Set up and operate laser punch machines per work orders and blueprints ... Experience operating laser punch or laser cutting machines. * Ability to read blueprints and ...

IFab Corporation

Laser Punch Operator

Gastonia, NC · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

Key Responsibilities * Set up and operate laser punch machines per work orders and blueprints ... Experience operating laser punch or laser cutting machines. * Ability to read blueprints and ...

Special Products & Manu

Punch Press Operator

Rockwall, TX · On-site

$16.50 - $20.50/hr

Join Our Team as a Punch Operator! Do you like a fast-paced environment where accuracy, quality ... Key Responsibilities: * Maintains Punch Press (EMLK, Pegas, EMK) machine and performs the changing ...

Essel

Punch prep

Fullerton, CA · On-site

Key Responsibilities: * Setup and Preparation: * Prepare and set up punch press machines according to production requirements. * Load materials into machines and ensure proper alignment and ...

Essel

Punch prep

Fullerton, CA · On-site

Key Responsibilities: * Setup and Preparation: * Prepare and set up punch press machines according to production requirements. * Load materials into machines and ensure proper alignment and ...

Essel

Punch prep

Fullerton, CA

Key Responsibilities: * Setup and Preparation: * Prepare and set up punch press machines according to production requirements. * Load materials into machines and ensure proper alignment and ...

Essel

Punch prep

Fullerton, CA

Key Responsibilities: * Setup and Preparation: * Prepare and set up punch press machines according to production requirements. * Load materials into machines and ensure proper alignment and ...

Essel

Punch prep

Fullerton, CA · On-site

Key Responsibilities: * Setup and Preparation: * Prepare and set up punch press machines according to production requirements. * Load materials into machines and ensure proper alignment and ...

Ideal Steel LLC

Punch Machine Helper

Broussard, LA · On-site

$12.75 - $16/hr

Key Responsibilities * Assist Punch Operators with machine setup, including tool and die preparation. * Load and unload metal components onto punch press machines. * Organize and stage materials to ...

W3Global Inc.

Punch Press Operator

Whittier, CA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Punch Press Operator Location: Whittier, CA Employment Type: Full-Time About Our Client Our Client ... Key ResponsibilitiesPunch Press Operation * Set up, operate, and monitor punch press equipment to ...

Custom Control Sensors

Punch Press Operator

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$18 - $22.25/hr

Punch Press Operator Company: Custom Control Sensors Location: Phoenix, AZ Job Type: Full Time - ... Key Responsibilities: Level I: * Operates pre-setup runs on punch press * Checks parts to maintain ...

PTI Technologies

Punch Press Setup/Operator

Oxnard, CA · On-site

$19.03 - $24.91/hr

Additionally, training staff and ensuring machinery operates efficiently will be key aspects of ... To excel as a Punch Press Setup/Operator at PTI Technologies, a strong combination of analytical ...

Resideo

Punch Press Operator

Golden Valley, MN · On-site

$18.50 - $23/hr

YOU MUST HAVE: * 1 year experience setting up, operating and troubleshooting 150 to 400 ton punch ... Ability to identify key details * Ability to troubleshoot * Good coordination, motor skills, and ...

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Key Punch Operator information

See salary details

$11

$19

$25

How much do key punch operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for key punch operator in the United States is $19.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a key punch operator?

Key Punch Operators are professionals who input data into machines known as keypunch machines, which punch holes into cards to record information. This process was essential for storing and processing data before the advent of modern computers. While the role is now largely obsolete due to technological advancements, key punch operators were once vital in industries such as banking, government, and research, ensuring accurate and efficient data entry. Their attention to detail and speed were crucial for managing large volumes of information.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a key punch operator?

To thrive as a Key Punch Operator, you need fast and accurate data entry skills, attention to detail, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with keypunch machines, basic computer systems, and data verification tools is often required. Strong organizational abilities, reliability, and the capacity to work independently are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure that large volumes of data are processed efficiently and accurately, minimizing errors in data management tasks.

What are some common challenges faced by key punch operators, and how can they be addressed?

Key Punch Operators often encounter challenges such as repetitive strain from continuous data entry, maintaining high levels of accuracy, and managing large volumes of data under tight deadlines. To address these issues, it's important to take regular breaks, use ergonomic equipment, and develop efficient typing techniques. Employers may also provide training on data validation and error-checking processes to help operators minimize mistakes and improve productivity. Collaborating closely with supervisors and IT staff can further enhance data integrity and streamline workflow.

What is the difference between Key Punch Operator vs Data Entry Clerk?

AspectKey Punch OperatorData Entry Clerk
CredentialsBasic typing skills, often no formal certificationHigh school diploma, basic computer skills
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or data processing centersOffice settings, administrative departments
Industry UsageData processing, punch card operationsGeneral administrative and data management
Search/Comparison IntentOften compared for data input roles with similar skillsBroader data management roles

Key Punch Operators primarily focus on data entry using punch cards in manufacturing or data processing environments, often requiring basic typing skills. Data Entry Clerks perform similar tasks but typically work in office settings with a broader scope of data management. While both roles involve data input, Key Punch Operators are more specialized in punch card technology, whereas Data Entry Clerks handle digital data entry tasks.

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What states have the most Key Punch Operator jobs?

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What job categories do people searching Key Punch Operator jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Key Punch Operator jobs are:

Key Punch Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Key Punch Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,243 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

Punch Press Operator

Special Products & Manu

Rockwall, TX • On-site

$16.50 - $20.50/hr

Other

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Join Our Team as a Punch Operator!

Do you like a fast-paced environment where accuracy, quality focus, and follow-through are a must? Are you looking for a new opportunity where you can use your technical expertise to grow your career? Then this is the job for you! We’re looking for a talented and passionate individual to join our company as a Punch Operator in the Fabrication department.

Company Overview:

Special Products & Manufacturing is dedicated to being a world-class contract manufacturer and is recognized as an industry leader, recognized by The Fabricator FAB40 list 10 years in a row. SPM specializes in precision metal fabrication, precision machining, electro-mechanical assembly, welding, engineering, prototyping, laser cutting, powder coating and finishing.

At SPM, you don't just have a job - you have a home for your passion, surrounded by a team that supports and celebrates you. We want dedicated, talented people to help us continue building upon our tradition of excellence. It is important to us that our team members make a difference while still enjoying a work/life balance.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Maintains Punch Press (EMLK, Pegas, EMK) machine and performs the changing of pallets with little or no supervision. Amada Equipment Experience a plus.
  • Download programs, align & build alphanumeric punching stamps and changes and load tools with minimal supervision
  • Understand Punch Press scheduling format to locate material
  • Raise quality issues to the next level if quality is compromised
  • Utilize previously prepared programs and assigned tooling to complete each job
  • Ability to understand print notes, apply notes and dimensions to the forming of a part.
  • Follow instructions concerning installing and removing tooling, dimensional corrections and troubleshooting.
  • Following instructions for scanning jobs in and out correctly, logging and identifying parts prior to leaving the area.
  • Effectively read a square and dial calipers on OD/ID dimensions and measure specified dimensions from print.
  • Responsible for checking the end product to ensure it meets customer specifications and SPM quality standards.
  • Ensure to follow all SPM safety procedures associated with operating machinery, plant requirements and other safety regulations.

Qualifications:

  • Ability to effectively read a square, protractor and dial calipers
  • Minimum of 2 yrs of Punch experience
  • Ability to read blueprints
  • Demonstrated competency in basic math
  • Ability to follow written and verbal instructions
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
  • Ability to lift, carry, and/or push up to 50lbs

Why Join Us:

  • Competitive compensation package and benefits.
  • Opportunity to make a significant impact on operational efficiency and quality.
  • Collaborative and innovative work environment.
  • Career development and growth opportunities within a growing company.

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