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Press Brake Operator Jobs in Delaware (NOW HIRING)

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Press Brake Operator information

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How much do press brake operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for press brake operator in Delaware is $20.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $22.84 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 Delaware?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Press Brake Operator job openings in Delaware as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 8% Contract, and 8% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,694 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

Sheet Metal Operator

Milford, DE • On-site

$18.66/hr

Other

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

POSITION PURPOSE

The Sheet Metal Operator III is a member of the Sheet Metal team and is responsible for parts fabrication and material movement in a safe manner and ensuring the quality of parts. The Sheet Metal Operator III works as member of the larger Fabrication team and may flex to any of the departments or work stations as volume dictates. The employee demonstrates BAC’s values of Earning Trust, Embracing Responsibility, Showing Courage, and Driving Innovation, and is committed to achieving technical expertise in their department. The purpose for every position at BAC regardless of department or level can be summed up as doing the right thing in the right way.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES

• Owns personal and team safety. Observes all safety rules and uses the proper safety equipment at all times.

•Assist Senior Mechanics to complete fabricated parts in a safe and quality conscious manner eliminating risk of damage

•Perform functions as a Press Brake Helper, be able to perform Press Brake preventive maintenance, and program and run simple parts.

•Perform material kitting function, proficiently operate the shear and be able to perform shear preventive maintenance.

•Assist changing dies and CNC tooling.

•Perform function of the drop off rack associated with focus on scrap reduction.

•Help keep equipment in good operating condition.

•Meet daily production goals as assigned by the Team Leader or Station Leader

•Replenish supplies other consumables

•Actively learn all skills necessary to become a world class mechanic

•Follow all safety requirements regarding tools and PPE

•Actively acquire skills and ability to support the highest quality standards.

•Flex to other areas as needed demonstrating teamwork and a commitment to team success

•Perform all other tasks as directed by the supervisor

NATURE & SCOPE

Mechanic III reports to the Station Leader or Team Leader of the Sheet Metal Department, or a more senior Mechanic as assigned by the Supervisor.

KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS

•Read a tape measure and perform basic fractional calculations

•Competent in reading blue prints and reference drawings

•Competent in the use of critical measurement equipment including: micrometers, tape measures, dial calipers, square, protractor, and micrometer.

•Ability to access necessary information from fabrication data bases, as well as make date entries.

•Knowledgeable of sheet metal quality standards and General Customer Expectations standards

•Know how to correctly perform first part quality checks

•Ability to safely operate material handling equipment including pallet jacks, and jib cranes as required

•Team work and collaboration

•Knowledge of Lean Basics, 5S standards, the Seven Wastes, and how their application.

•Knowledge of all safety requirements associated with tasks

WORKING CONDITIONS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job. While performing this job, the employee is regularly required to stand and walk up to 80% of the time. Employee will also be required to bend, stoop, kneel, squat, sit and reach on a regular basis during a normal working shift This position requires frequent lifting up to 50 pounds. Exposures include elevated noise levels associated with a manufacturing environment, fluctuations in temperature ambient conditions as well as intermittent exposure to the weather in and about the yard and dock areas. Working hours can include any of three shifts and generally are scheduled for forty hours a week. Some weekend overtime is to be expected.

You should be proficient in:

  • CNC Tooling
  • Lean Manufacturing Principles
  • Precision Measurement & Inspection
  • Blueprint Reading

Machines & technologies you'll use:

  • Press Brake