1

Press Brake Operator Jobs in Rochester, MN (NOW HIRING)

Drill Press Operator

Stewartville, MN · On-site

$21.25 - $27.50/hr

The Drill Operator is responsible for the accurate counting, drilling and set-up of the drills. Will also help in any other area of the department or plant as needed. Available Shift(s): Weekend Days ...

Machine Operator

Stewartville, MN · On-site

$22.50 - $28.50/hr

The Machine Operator (Filament Winding Operator) is responsible for all poles and processes associated with HMI operations, Veil applications, Resin mixes; including but not limited to prepping ...

Machine Operator II

Rochester, MN · On-site

$17.62 - $21.44/hr

... qualified operators • May set-up and/or PM less complex equipment • Complete process control charts used to monitor efficiency; Interpret chart patterns and use them as a tool to control ...

Operator I, Pultruison

Chatfield, MN · On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

Learn basic procedures for operating the pultrusion machines to be able to act as backup during breaks. * Thread in any new lines and fix any problem lines on the glass rack when necessary. * Become ...

Operator I, Pultrusion

Chatfield, MN · On-site

$18 - $20.45/hr

Learn basic procedures for operating the pultrusion machines to be able to act as backup during breaks. * Thread in any new lines and fix any problem lines on the glass rack when necessary. * Become ...

Machine Operator I

Rochester, MN · On-site

$15.83 - $20/hr

Under close direction of experienced operators or a Production Team Leader, operates the SMT placement equipment and/or other equipment in order to perform the tasks necessary to manufacture PCBs and ...

Machine Operator I

Rochester, MN · On-site

$17.52 - $19.40/hr

Under close direction of experienced operators or a Production Team Leader, operates the SMT placement equipment and/or other equipment in order to perform the tasks necessary to manufacture PCBs and ...

Machine Operator I

Rochester, MN · On-site

$17.83 - $19.74/hr

Under close direction of experienced operators or a Production Team Leader, operates the SMT placement equipment and/or other equipment in order to perform the tasks necessary to manufacture PCBs and ...

Machine Operator I

Rochester, MN · On-site

$17.83 - $19.78/hr

Under close direction of experienced operators or a Production Team Leader, operates the SMT placement equipment and/or other equipment in order to perform the tasks necessary to manufacture PCBs and ...

Press Brake Operator information

See Rochester, MN salary details

$13

$20

$27

How much do press brake operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for press brake operator in Rochester, MN is $20.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.84 and $23.22 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 cities near Rochester, MN are hiring for Press Brake Operator jobs?

Cities near Rochester, MN with the most Press Brake Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Press Brake Operator job openings in Rochester, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,360 per year, or $20.8 per hour.

CNC Laser and Press Brake Programmer

Crenlo Engineered Cabs

Rochester, MN • On-site

$18.25 - $23.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Crenlo Engineered Cabs rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

384th of 493 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

SUMMARY:

Crenlo is seeking a CNC machine programmer with experience in one or more of the following types of fabrication equipment, Laser cutting machines (Fiber and CO2), CNC Press Brakes, and/or CNC Turret Punch machines to program parts based off blueprints, 3D CAD models, engineering parameters, as well as production schedules. Load, edit and optimize programs based on in-process inspection.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Ability to read and interpret instructions, prints, and work orders for the job.
  • Develop work instructions based on programming needs.
  • Assists with inspecting finished product for completeness and conformance to all quality assurance procedures.
  • Assists with the operation of equipment to verify program specifications and completeness.

KEY SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES:

  • Experience with CNC Press Brakes
  • Experience with CNC Turret Punches
  • Experience with Laser programming software
  • Ability to read and comprehend instructions and short correspondence.
  • Experience with CAD 3D modeling software
  • Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in metric and standard units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.
  • Ability to convert standard units of measure to metric and metric to standard.
  • Ability to apply commonsense understanding to carry out detailed but uninvolved written or oral instructions.
  • Ability to deal with problems involving a few concrete variables in standardized situations.
  • Ability to read a tape measure and blueprints.

WORKING CONDITIONS/OTHER:

  • Monday - Friday 7am - 3:30pm
  • Maintains up-to-date knowledge of federal and state employment law, compliance, trends, new technologies and best practices in areas of responsibilities.

This position description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities and competencies required of this position. Employees are held accountable for all aspects of the job, which are subject to change at any time. An individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Company Information

We are dedicated to the belief that people are our most important asset. In filling job openings every effort is expended to find candidates within Crenlo, its divisions or subsidiaries. Employee development, the opportunity to grow and continuing to evolve both as an employee and as a company are instrumental to our success. We encourage employees to inquire about open positions and apply to those that help further their career goals.

Crenlo Engineered Cabs is an equal employment opportunity employer. Qualified applicants are considered regardless of race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, disability, or veteran's status.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

  • Associates degree from a two-year technical school preferred.
  • Minimum of one-year related experience in fabrication machine programming.
  • BySoft, Radan, NCell, Trutops, Trumpf, Bystronic, Amada, or experience with other related software is a plus

What Crenlo Engineered Cabs employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom