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Press Brake Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Insight Global

Press Brake Operator

Ontario, CA · On-site

$22 - $27/hr

Insight Global is seeking two experienced Press Brake Operators to join their manufacturing team in Ontario, CA. This role is ideal for individuals with a strong fabrication background who are ...

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iStaffing

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Press Brake Operator

Chino, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

If you have experience operating CNC press brake machines, reading blueprints, and working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, we'd love to hear from you! Responsibilities * Set up and operate ...

Right Manufacturing

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Press Brake Operator

San Diego, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Press Brake Operator Reports to: Production Management SUMMARY: The duties of The Press Brake Operator include but are not limited to: • Operate Cincinnati Press Brake • The ability to prepare ...

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Right Manufacturing

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Press Brake Operator

San Diego, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Press Brake Operator Reports to: Production Management SUMMARY: The duties of The Press Brake Operator include but are not limited to: • Operate Cincinnati Press Brake • The ability to prepare ...

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Right Manufacturing

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Press Brake Operator

San Diego, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Press Brake Operator Reports to: Production Management SUMMARY: The duties of The Press Brake Operator include but are not limited to: • Operate Cincinnati Press Brake • The ability to prepare ...

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J L Metal Products

Press Brake Operator

Corona, CA · On-site

$41K - $55K/yr

We are looking for an EXPERIENCED press brake operator to run a mechanical and hydralic press brake. We fabricate commercial stainless steel kitchen equipment for the food service industry. Applicant ...

Flex Ltd

Press Brake Operator

Fontana, CA · On-site

$21.61 - $29.18/hr

Report to the Fabrication Manager, the Press Brake Operator is responsible for operating a press brake machine to bend, shape, cut, and manipulate sheet metal and metal plates according to ...

Flex

Press Brake Operator

Fontana, CA

$21.61 - $29.18/hr

Report to the Fabrication Manager, the Press Brake Operator is responsible for operating a press brake machine to bend, shape, cut, and manipulate sheet metal and metal plates according to ...

J L Metal Products

Press Brake Operator

Corona, CA · On-site

$41K - $55K/yr

We are looking for an EXPERIENCED press brake operator to run a mechanical and hydralic press brake. We fabricate commercial stainless steel kitchen equipment for the food service industry. Applicant ...

Flex Ltd

Press Brake Operator

Fontana, CA

$21.61 - $29.18/hr

Report to the Fabrication Manager, the Press Brake Operator is responsible for operating a press brake machine to bend, shape, cut, and manipulate sheet metal and metal plates according to ...

FLAG Solutions LLC

Press Brake Operator

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$26 - $36/hr

Press Brake Operator 2nd Shift: (1:30- 10:00pm + OT as needed) Pay: $26-$36/hr (DOE) Position Overview We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Press Brake Operator / Set-up Operator to support ...

Laser Innovations Inc

Press Brake Operator

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Laser Innovations, Inc. is seeking to hire a Press Brake Operator with the below criteria: Responsibilities: * Making set-ups and producing a variety of parts base on production drawings Job ...

Aerotek

Press Brake Operator

Fontana, CA

$18.50 - $24.25/hr

Press Brake Operator This role involves setting up and operating CNC press brake equipment to perform precision sheet metal fabrication in a high-volume, fast-paced production environment. You will ...

Laser Innovations Inc

Press Brake Operator

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Laser Innovations, Inc. is seeking to hire a Press Brake Operator with the below criteria: Responsibilities: * Making set-ups and producing a variety of parts base on production drawings Job ...

Simos

Press Brake Operator

La Mirada, CA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Staff Management is seeking a skilled Press Brake Operator for an exciting temp-to-hire opportunity in sunny La Mirada, CA! Imagine your weekdays filled with a consistent Monday to Thursday schedule ...

Laser Tech LLC

Press Brake Operator

Riverside, CA · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

The Press Brake Operator position takes sheet metal in a flat form and shapes it to the finished dimensions per the supplied drawing. This includes interpreting the drawing, determining the proper ...

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All JobsPress Brake Operator JobsPress Brake Operator Jobs in California

Press Brake Operator information

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$26

How much do press brake operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for press brake operator in California is $20.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $22.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills do you need to be a press brake operator?

A press brake operator needs strong mechanical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to read technical drawings and measurements. Familiarity with operating and maintaining press brake machines, as well as understanding safety procedures, is essential. Basic math skills and the ability to work in a team environment are also important.

What does a press brake operator make?

A press brake operator typically earns an hourly wage or salary, with wages varying based on experience, location, and industry. They may also receive benefits such as health insurance, paid time off, and overtime pay, especially if working in manufacturing or metal fabrication environments. Skilled operators with certifications can often command higher pay rates.

How do I become a brake press operator?

To become a brake press operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training or an apprenticeship. Familiarity with operating brake presses, understanding safety procedures, and developing skills in measuring and reading blueprints are important for this role.

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

Press Brake Operators often encounter challenges such as handling complex bend sequences, maintaining precision with tight tolerances, and managing multiple job setups throughout a shift. To overcome these, operators typically rely on careful reading of blueprints, regular calibration of equipment, and ongoing communication with engineers or supervisors. Developing strong troubleshooting skills and staying updated on best practices in metal forming can also help manage workload and ensure product quality.

What is the difference between Press Brake Operator vs CNC Machine Operator?

AspectPress Brake OperatorCNC Machine Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, training in press brake operationHigh school diploma, CNC programming or operation training
Work EnvironmentMetal fabrication shops, manufacturing plantsMachine shops, manufacturing facilities
Job FocusBending and shaping metal sheets using press brakesOperating CNC machines to produce parts
Common UsageFabrication of metal components, structural partsMass production of precision parts and components

While both roles involve working with metal fabrication equipment, a Press Brake Operator primarily focuses on bending and shaping metal sheets with press brakes, requiring specific training in machine operation. A CNC Machine Operator handles computer-controlled machines for precise manufacturing. Both roles are essential in manufacturing environments but differ in their technical focus and equipment used.

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

To thrive as a Press Brake Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and experience with metal fabrication, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with CNC press brake machines, blueprint reading, and measurement tools like calipers and micrometers is typically required. Problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and a commitment to safety are key soft skills that make someone stand out. These skills ensure precision, efficiency, and safety in producing high-quality metal components in manufacturing environments.

What Does a Press Brake Operator Do?

As a press brake operator, your job is to operate press brake machines to shape various types of metal. In this role, you may inspect blueprints for a project, set up your machine, perform regular maintenance, inspect metal while shaping it, and make adjustments as needed. Press brake operators often monitor supply levels, check the final products to ensure they are free of defects, and ensure work areas are clean and organized. Press brake operators usually work full shifts, and you may be asked to work nights, weekends, or holidays as needed to meet customer demand. Areas with active press brakes can be loud, so operators often wear personal protective equipment to minimize risks.

What are Press Brake Operators?

Press Brake Operators are skilled workers who operate press brake machines to bend, shape, or form metal sheets and plates. They read blueprints or work instructions to set up the machine for precise bends and ensure that finished pieces meet quality standards. These operators are responsible for adjusting machine settings, performing routine maintenance, and inspecting parts for accuracy. Their work is essential in manufacturing industries such as automotive, aerospace, and metal fabrication.

Is press brake operator a good career?

A press brake operator is a skilled tradesperson responsible for shaping metal sheets using a press brake machine, often requiring technical training or certification. The role offers steady employment opportunities in manufacturing and fabrication industries, with potential for advancement into supervisory or specialized positions. It can be a stable career for those interested in manufacturing and working with machinery.
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Press Brake Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Press Brake Operator job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,098 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Press Brake Operator

Insight Global

Ontario, CA • On-site

$22 - $27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

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Job description

About the Opportunity:

Insight Global is seeking two experienced Press Brake Operators to join their manufacturing team in Ontario, CA. This role is ideal for individuals with a strong fabrication background who are experienced in setting up and operating press brake equipment in a fast-paced production environment.

The ideal candidate will have experience reading blueprints, performing quality inspections, and producing high-quality sheet metal components while maintaining safety and production standards.


Responsibilities

  • Set up, operate, and adjust press brake machinery to manufacture parts according to specifications
  • Read and interpret blueprints, work orders, and technical drawings
  • Perform quality inspections using calipers, tape measures, and other precision measuring tools
  • Load, align, and position materials for production
  • Troubleshoot basic machine issues and make minor adjustments as needed
  • Ensure production goals and quality standards are consistently met
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment
  • Collaborate with production team members to support on-time delivery and operational efficiency


Required Qualifications

  • 1+ years of press brake operating experience
  • Experience setting up and operating press brake machinery
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings
  • Experience using calipers, tape measures, and other measuring instruments
  • Basic math skills and ability to work with measurements
  • Previous manufacturing or fabrication experience
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and work in a production environment


Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience operating Bystronic press brake machines
  • CNC press brake setup experience
  • Experience with Amada, Trumpf, Accurpress, or Cincinnati equipment
  • Sheet metal fabrication experience
  • Basic CNC programming or editing experience
  • Bilingual in English and Spanish
  • Previous lead operator or training experience