1

Press Brake Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Be Seen First

Brake Operator I Location: San Jose, CA + About the job: Operate press brake machines to produce quality metal parts in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Requires prior brake operation ...

Summary Working under the general direction of the supervisor or lead person, performs a wide variety of duties associated with metal fabrication equipment mainly in the press brake area.

Press Brake Supervisor

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$32 - $42/hr

Proven experience leading teams, training operators, and coordinating production schedules Requirements: * Experience in press brake setup, operation, and troubleshooting. (AMADA) * Strong technical ...

Press Brake Set up Operator - Compumeric

Ontario, CA · On-site

$18.25 - $23.75/hr

Summary Compumeric engineering is seeking a CNC Press Brake Set-Up Operator. Ideal candidate will be skilled in performing set-ups, reading blueprints, using a tape measurer and calipers, and can ...

Brake Press Operator

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

Temp-to-hire 1st Shift Pay: $22.00 - $26.00 per hour We are seeking a Brake Press Operator for our fast paced Aerospace manufacturing facility in Long Beach. Only experienced candidates in the field ...

Laser & Brake Press Programmer, Set Up, and Operator Employer: Pathway Group Job Type: Full-time, Temp-to-Hire Pay Rate: $25- $30/hr. Summary Program, set up, and run laser cutting machine and CNC ...

Press Brake/Forming Operator POSITION PURPOSE: The Press Brake Operator operates a Press Brake machine to bend or form metals to meet customer specifications and production requirements following ...

CNC Brake Press Operator The Sr. CNC Brake Press Operator is a key person in the metal shop with responsibilities that include executing all production requirements from drawing to shipment in the ...

CNC Brake Press Operator The Sr. CNC Brake Press Operator is a key person in the metal shop with responsibilities that include executing all production requirements from drawing to shipment in the ...

Description Brake Operator I Full-time | Permanent |Day Shift Onsite | Hourly | $24 - $28 *We are not currently working with third party agencies on this role. Summary: This position is responsible ...

Showing results 41-60

Press Brake Operator information

See California salary details

$13

$20

$26

How much do press brake operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 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 is a press brake operator?

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.

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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a press brake operator?

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 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.

How much do press brake operators make?

Press brake operators in the United States typically earn an average annual salary between $35,000 and $55,000, depending on experience, certifications, and location. In Texas, wages tend to be within this range, with some positions offering higher pay for skilled operators familiar with CNC machinery and safety standards.

Is press brake operation a good career?

Press brake operation is a skilled manufacturing job that involves shaping metal sheets using a machine called a press brake. It offers steady employment opportunities, especially in manufacturing and fabrication industries, and often requires technical skills and safety training. The role can lead to advancement into supervisory or specialized technical positions.

What are popular job titles related to Press Brake Operator jobs in California?

For Press Brake Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Press Brake Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Press Brake Operator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Press Brake Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Press Brake Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Press Brake Operator jobs in CA?

For Press Brake Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Press Brake Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,098 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Press Brake Operator | Swing and Day Shift

San Jose, CA • On-site

SlingShot Connections
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 11 - 50 employees

$25 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 17 days ago

Be Seen First

After you apply to this job, you can share why you’re interested to jump to the top of the candidate list.


Job description

Job Title: Brake Operator I

Location: San Jose, CA


+ About the job:

Operate press brake machines to produce quality metal parts in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Requires prior brake operation experience and the ability to follow technical instructions and maintain safety and quality standards.


+ We’re looking for someone who:

• Has a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent (preferred)

• Has prior brake press operation experience

• Can read blueprints and follow written and verbal instructions

• Understands basic math and inspection processes

• Has basic computer skills and experience with production software (e.g., Epicor)

• Can stand for long periods and safely lift up to 35 lbs

• Is flexible with scheduling and willing to work overtime

• Can be cross-trained in other departments as needed

+ What you’ll do:

• Operate press brakes (Amada NC9-EX and LD), power notcher, and roller

• Perform simple machine set-ups and inspect parts for accuracy

• Follow safety procedures and maintain a clean, organized work area

• Use tools like calipers, protractors, Allen wrenches, and calculators with trig functions

• Track job progress and productivity using Epicor

• Inspect first parts, conduct in-process checks, and get QA approval

• Identify and report defective parts or machine issues

• Participate in continuous improvement meetings

+ Why you’ll love working here:

• Weekly pay

• Paid sick leave

• Health, vision, dental, pet insurance, and more

Company Description

SlingShot Connections provides contract staffing, direct hire placement, executive search recruitment, payroll services, and customized staffing solutions for numerous verticals, including accounting & finance, hospitality, human resources, and many more.


SlingShot Connections logo

About SlingShot Connections

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

SlingShot Connections started with one mission: to help everyone find fulfilling work, no matter who they are or where they come from. Each and every one of us has transferable skills and attributes waiting to be unlocked in the right environment. And since our founding, we’ve made it our life’s work to get you there. Today, we are proud to be one of the nation’s most dynamic providers of contract staffing, executive search, payroll services, and staffing solutions for a wide array of industries and verticals. But not everything can be about business! So much of our time is spent at work. That’s why we treat each other with the utmost care and respect, which ultimately trickles down into every interaction with clients, associates, and our surrounding communities.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

San Jose, CA, US

Year founded

2012

Social media