1

Press Brake Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Press Brake Machine Operator 1st Shift Metals USA is seeking a Press Brake Machine Operator in Greensboro NC. Metals USA is a solid, growth oriented, carbon-steel (plate, beam, tube) distribution ...

Press Brake Operator

Effingham, IL · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Press Brake Operator - 1st Shift POSITION OVERVIEW Responsible for operating the Press Brake Machines and supporting the production team by assembling parts, operating machinery, and punching or ...

We are seeking a Press Brake Operator who will be responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining press brake machines to bend, form, and fabricate metal parts according to specifications.

Press Brake Operator 2nd shift

Gastonia, NC · On-site

$15.25 - $20/hr

As a Press Brake Operator, you will play a crucial role in our production process by utilizing your ... Machine Setup: Prepare the press brake machine by selecting the appropriate dies, tools, and ...

CNC Brake Press Operator

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Set up and operate press brake machines to bend, form, and shape metal sheets according to ... You must have at least 3+ years of very recent Brake Press Operating Experience. * Proficient in ...

We are seeking a Press Brake Operator who will be responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining press brake machines to bend, form, and fabricate metal parts according to specifications.

Weekend Shift Press Brake

Tulsa, OK · On-site

$17 - $24/hr

Seeking Weekend Shift CNC Press Brake Operators for Manufacturer in Tulsa The ideal candidate will have experience operating a press brake machine & will exhibit the ability to pick up on processes ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Press Brake Machine Operator information

See salary details

$12

$18

$27

How much do press brake machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for press brake machine operator in the United States is $18.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $20.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Press Brake Machine Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Press Brake Machine Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a basic understanding of metal fabrication or machining, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with press brake machines, CNC controls, measuring tools like calipers, and safety certifications are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help operators excel in fast-paced manufacturing environments. These abilities ensure accurate, safe, and efficient production of precision metal components.

What are some common challenges faced by Press Brake Machine Operators, and how can they be addressed?

Press Brake Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as interpreting complex blueprints, ensuring precise measurements, and maintaining machine safety. Tight production deadlines and the need for minimal errors can add pressure, but developing strong attention to detail and effective communication with supervisors helps mitigate these issues. Ongoing training and familiarity with different materials and machine settings are also crucial for overcoming challenges and maintaining high-quality standards.

What is a Press Brake Machine Operator?

A Press Brake Machine Operator is a skilled worker responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining press brake machines used to bend, shape, or cut metal sheets and plates. Their main duties include reading technical drawings, selecting appropriate tools and dies, adjusting machine settings, and ensuring finished products meet precise specifications. They often work in manufacturing or fabrication environments and must follow strict safety protocols. Attention to detail and mechanical aptitude are important in this role.

What is the difference between Press Brake Machine Operator vs Sheet Metal Worker?

AspectPress Brake Machine OperatorSheet Metal Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job training, possibly certificationHigh school diploma, apprenticeship, or technical training
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, machine shopsConstruction sites, manufacturing facilities
Job FocusOperating and setting press brake machines to bend metalCutting, shaping, and installing sheet metal components

The Press Brake Machine Operator primarily focuses on operating machinery to bend metal sheets, while the Sheet Metal Worker handles cutting, shaping, and installing sheet metal parts. Both roles require similar technical skills and certifications, often working in manufacturing or construction environments. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right career path in metal fabrication industries.

More about Press Brake Machine Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Press Brake Machine Operator jobs? Cities with the most Press Brake Machine Operator job openings:
What states have the most Press Brake Machine Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Press Brake Machine Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Press Brake Machine Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,312 per year, or $18.9 per hour.
Press Brake Operator

$20/hr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Metals USA rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 333 rated retail wholesalers


Job description

Press Brake Machine Operator
1st Shift
Metals USA is seeking a Press Brake Machine Operator in Greensboro NC. Metals USA is a solid, growth oriented, carbon-steel (plate, beam, tube) distribution center servicing the defense, commercial, construction, aerospace and fabrication industries.
The Brake Press Operator is responsible for operating a Brake Press machine for producing parts and tools from metal using a brake press, a computer numeric controlled (CNC) piece of equipment that makes precision bends, punches or cuts into material.
Essential Functions:
  • Plans machining by studying & understanding work orders, blue prints, engineering plans, materials, specifications, drawings, reference planes, locations on surfaces, and machining parameters, interpreting geometric dimensions and tolerances (GD&T).
  • Prepares and operates Brake Press machine with the proper program, tools and material for specified part.
  • Prepares and loads raw materials and parts onto the machines.
  • Checks height, depth and thickness using micrometers, dial indicators, calipers, gauges and other precision-measuring instruments.
  • Monitors the machines as they execute the tasks and makes any necessary adjustment to produce a quality product.
  • Inspects and measures finished products and compares to the requirements to determine if the process was completed properly.
  • Notifies team leader immediately of any problems when running a part.
  • Completes production paperwork, follows shop system data collection procedures and follows inspection procedures on a daily basis.
  • Performs daily maintenance and inspection of equipment to ensure functionality.
  • Notifies management of product discrepancies or equipment malfunctions, and or personal injuries.
  • Maintains work areas in a clean, orderly and safe manner to include returning tools to designated areas.
  • Regular and predictable attendance is required to perform the duties of a brake press machine operator.
  • Adheres to all company policies and procedures paying special attention to safety regulations.
  • Adheres to Reliance Steel and Aluminum's Code of Conduct as well as customer confidentiality requirements.
  • Wears personal protective equipment in accordance with training guidelines.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

Physical Demands:
Occupation requires physical activity more than 66% of the time (> 5.5 hours per day)
  • Stand, walk, sit, handling/fingering, reach outward, reach above shoulder, climb, squat or kneel or bend
  • Lift, carry, push and/or pull 51 -- 100 lbs. with assistance

Other Physical Requirements:
Must wear the proper personal protective equipment (PPE)
  • Steel-toed boots
  • Hard hats with chin strap; chin strap must be worn at all times while in the warehouse
  • Protective eyewear
  • Hand protection
  • Arm guards/sleeves
  • Visual acuity (correctable) to read instructions, safely operate machines and visually inspect parts
  • Hearing protection if required by the hearing conservation program

Work Environment:
May be exposed to some of the following working conditions.
  • Environmental temperature changes hot & cold
  • Working inside and outside of an industrial warehouse
  • Moderate to loud noise levels
  • Vibration
  • Oils, dust, fumes and metallic particles
  • Day and night shifts

  • High School Graduate or Equivalent
  • Two year technical degree and/or apprenticeship
  • National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) certificate preferred
  • Basic reading and writing comprehension in English (to read work order instructions, safety and policy manuals)
  • Proven experience as a Brake Press Operator
  • Ability to comprehend oral and written communication
  • Ability to articulate with concise thoughts
  • Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings & documents, blue prints
  • Ability to read measuring instruments such as measuring tapes, micrometers, calipers, dial indicators and gauges
  • Must have mechanical aptitude and good math skills
  • Experience operating an overhead crane and forklift
  • Computer Literacy with understanding of computer programming and CAD/CAM
  • Must be organized with an attention to detail

Metals USA offers a competitive hourly rate of $20.00- $22.00 and benefits plus upward mobility professional growth. Metals USA is committed to protecting our employees by creating and maintaining a workplace free of substance abuse.
"Metals USA provides equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability."