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Press Brake Operator Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Legacy Talent Search

Press Brake Operator

Canby, OR

$25/hr

Legacy Talent Search is currently seeking candidates for a Press Brake Operator role in Canby, OR. Our client is a well-established industry leader known for innovation and a commitment to delivering ...

Sulzer AG

Press Brake Operator

Portland, OR

$19.25 - $25.25/hr

This position is primarily responsible for operating NC Press Brake to produce high-quality stainless-steel components according to engineering drawings and specifications. The ideal candidate will ...

Legacy Talent Search

Press Brake Operator

Clackamas, OR

$25 - $27/hr

Legacy Talent Search is currently seeking candidates for a Press Brake Operator role in Clackamas, OR. Our client is a well-established industry leader known for precision manufacturing, innovation ...

Legacy Talent Search

Press Brake Operator

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Legacy Talent Search is currently seeking candidates for a Press Brake Operator role in Vancouver, WA. Our client is a well-established industry leader known for innovation and a commitment to ...

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All JobsPress Brake Operator JobsPress Brake Operator Jobs in Portland, OR

Press Brake Operator information

See Portland, OR salary details

$14

$21

$28

How much do press brake operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for press brake operator in Portland, OR is $21.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.61 and $24.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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?

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 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.
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Press Brake Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Press Brake Operator job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 48% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,238 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Press Brake Operator

Tradesmen International, LLC

Clackamas, OR • On-site

$30/hr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Overview

Tradesmen International is immediately hiring experienced Press Brake Operators for projects located in or around Clackamas, OR. This is a first shift opportunity and the pay rate is up to $30/hour based on experience and skill level. If you are a Press Brake Operator and want to work alongside other proven craftsmen who emphasize safety, productivity and superior craftsmanship, this is your chance to advance your career!

Job Scope:

  • Set up and operate press brake equipment to bend and form steel components
  • Read and interpret blueprints, fabrication drawings, work orders, and sketches
  • Verify measurements using tape measures, calipers, squares, micrometers, angle finders, and gauges
  • Perform basic shop math, including fractions, decimals, angles, and measurements
  • Safely handle steel plates, sheets, and fabricated parts
  • Inspect finished parts to ensure quality and dimensional accuracy
  • Follow all company safety procedures and wear required PPE
  • Maintain awareness of pinch points, crush hazards, suspended loads, stored energy, and moving equipment
  • Use proper lifting techniques and approved material-handling methods
  • Report unsafe conditions, equipment issues, or quality concerns to supervision immediately
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area
Requirements:
  • Experience operating a press brake or similar metal-forming equipment preferred
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints and fabrication drawings
  • Basic understanding of steel fabrication processes and material types
  • Proficiency with common measuring tools
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing quality work
  • Ability to follow verbal and written instructions
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Reliable attendance and strong communication skills
Preferred:
  • Experience operating Cincinnati press brake equipment
  • Experience with CNC press brake controls and manual machine adjustments
  • Knowledge of bend allowances, bend deductions, springback, tooling selection, and forming sequences
  • Experience working in a structural steel or fabrication shop
  • Forklift and/or overhead crane experience
  • Familiarity with fabrication quality-control procedures

Qualifications

Tradesmen International not only offers consistent work, top pay, and employment opportunities, we also provide a benefits package that is among the best in the industry.

Our comprehensive benefits include:

  • Tradesmen+ Rewards Program – earn points for hours worked
  • Vacation Pay
  • Health insurance
  • 401(k) retirement savings plan

Tradesmen International is an EO employer - M/F/Veteran/Disability

“Be Safe” from fraud! Tradesmen International will never ask you to pay for certifications, equipment, or other “up front” costs as a condition of hire. Similarly, we do not request pictures of documents or IDs to private phone numbers or email addresses. If in doubt, please call or visit your closest Tradesmen office to verify the request.

Click here to visit Tradesmen’s full website.