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Press Brake Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Laborup

Press Brake Technician

Nashville, TN

$60 - $70K/hr

Overview We're hiring Press Brake Operators for our architectural metal fabrication shop in Nashville. You'll set up and run CNC press brakes - Trumpf and Safan-Darley - forming metal details and ...

Aerotek

Press Brake Operator

Lexington, TN · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

CNC Operator This fast-paced CNC Operator role focuses on operating and fabricating sheet metal ... Hands-on experience with laser cutting and press brake operations in a production environment.

Laborup

Press Brake Technician

Nashville, TN · On-site

$60 - $70K/hr

Overview We're hiring Press Brake Operators for our architectural metal fabrication shop in Nashville. You'll set up and run CNC press brakes - Trumpf and Safan-Darley - forming metal details and ...

Laborup

Press Brake Technician

Nashville, TN · On-site

$60 - $70K/hr

Overview We're hiring Press Brake Operators for our architectural metal fabrication shop in Nashville. You'll set up and run CNC press brakes -- Trumpf and Safan-Darley -- forming metal details and ...

Anchor Fabrication

First Shift Brake Fabricator

La Vergne, TN · On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

Anchor Fabrication Press Brake Operator 1st Shift Anchor Fabrication, a precision metal fabrication company located in Lavergne, Tennessee, is seeking experienced Press Brake Operators for the 1st ...

Anchor Fabrication

First Shift Brake Fabricator

La Vergne, TN · On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

Anchor Fabrication Press Brake Operator 1st Shift Anchor Fabrication, a precision metal fabrication company located in Lavergne, Tennessee, is seeking experienced Press Brake Operators for the 1st ...

Anchor Custom Fabrications

Press Operator

La Vergne, TN · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Press Operators & Punch Operators 1st shift 6am-2:30pm Anchor Fabrication Anchor Fabrication, LLC ... Sets up and operate the press brake to bend, form and straighten * Determine and select dies for ...

Anchor Fabrications

Press Operator

La Vergne, TN

$18 - $20/hr

Press Operators & Punch Operators 1st shift 6am-2:30pm Anchor Fabrication Anchor Fabrication, LLC ... Sets up and operate the press brake to bend, form and straighten * Determine and select dies for ...

Wise Staffing Group

Brake Press Operator

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$16/hr

Brake Press Operator Salary: $16 per hour Schedule: Monday to Friday We are seeking a skilled Brake Press Operator to join our team. As a Brake Press Operator, you will be responsible for setting up ...

Webforge

Brake Operator - Weekend Days

Jasper, TN · On-site

$15.50 - $20/hr

A Brief Summary of This Position The associate is expected as the Brake Press Operator to be able to perform the following operations: set-up brake, load sheet on conveyor, layout and prep sheet ...

Nextaff

Days-Laser/Brake Press Operator

Jackson, TN · On-site

$19/hr

We are seeking an experienced Laser and/or Brake Press Operator for a 1st shift position. Responsibilities include setting up and operating laser cutting and brake press machines, reading and ...

Nextaff

Nights-Laser/Brake Press Operator

Jackson, TN · On-site

$20/hr

We are seeking an experienced Laser and/or Brake Press Operator for a 2nd shift position. Responsibilities include setting up and operating laser cutting and brake press machines, reading and ...

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All JobsPress Brake Operator JobsPress Brake Operator Jobs in Tennessee

Press Brake Operator information

See Tennessee salary details

$12

$18

$24

How much do press brake operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for press brake operator in Tennessee is $18.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.91 and $20.72 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 Tennessee as of July 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 $38,716 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

Press Brake Operator 2nd and 3rd shift

JOHN W. MCDOUGALL CO., INC

Nashville, TN • On-site

$17.75 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Description:


At John W. McDougall, we are more than just a leader in metal and facade solutions—we are a third-generation, family-owned business driven by innovation, craftsmanship, and a passion for transforming vision into reality. With a legacy of delivering iconic projects, we take pride in exceeding customer expectations while fostering an environment where our people thrive.

We are looking for a skilled Press Brake Operator for our 2nd and 3rd Shift operations.

Requirements:
  • Responsible for daily set-up and operation of an advanced CNC Press Brake
  • Must be able to run machine at an operator’s level
  • Ability to set-up machine to produce an accurate part is a must
  • Load material at Machine
  • Read and have full understanding of mechanical drawings and part tolerances
  • Upload and run program from machine controller
  • Perform basic programming using the machine controller
  • Perform preventative maintenance schedules as required to keep machine working properly
  • Proficient in first article, in-process, and final inspections of parts
  • Ability to work with management to ensure finished products are produced in the safest, most efficient manner, while maintaining legendary quality and on-time delivery
  • Responsible for packaging parts per customer requirements
  • Monitor equipment and press tooling request external maintenance when required
  • Operate fork lift and overhead crane as required
  • Able to assist other operators, as a helper, on other machines is required
  • Ability to run Trumpf and Safan-Darley equipment is a plus
  • Ability to perform basic programming is a plus
  • Ability to run other basic fabrication equipment is a plus

Benefits

  • Medical, Vision, and Dental
  • Company Sponsored Life Insurance and Long-Term Disability
  • Voluntary Short Term and Life Insurance Policies offered
  • 401k with company match up to 4%
  • Company sponsored Employee Assistance Program
  • PTO

Drug-Free Workplace

We provide and require a drug-free workplace. All new hires will be subject to a pre-employment drug screening as well as randomly selected drug screenings for the duration of employment with our company.


If you are a motivated and experienced Press Brake Operator looking to join a high-quality team, we encourage you to apply!