ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Press Brake Set Up Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

PlayCore

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 ...

Platinum Industrial

Press Brake Set Up Operator

Blaine, MN · On-site

$25 - $32/hr

In this role, you will be responsible for setting up and operating brake press machines to bend, form, and shape metal parts according to specifications. Job Duties: * Set up and operate brake press ...

New

TruPath

CNC Press Brake Operator III

Mendota Heights, MN · On-site

$35 - $45/hr

Custom Sheet Metal Manufacturing Company seeking an experienced CNC Press Brake Set Up Operator III to join our growing team at our facility in Mendota Heights, MN. You must have experience working ...

Monarch Metal Manufacturing

Press Brake Operator

Denver, CO · On-site

$19 - $24.75/hr

J ob requirements- Press brake Press brake operator must be able to: * Review the production ... Press Brake Set-up Press Brake Operation Blueprint Reading Quality Control Monday - Thursday (4 ...

Monarch Metal Manufacturing

Press Brake Operator

Denver, CO · On-site

$19 - $24.75/hr

J ob requirements- Press brake Press brake operator must be able to: * Review the production ... Press Brake Set-up Press Brake Operation Blueprint Reading Quality Control Monday - Thursday (4 ...

Aerotek

Press Brake Machine Set Up Operator

El Monte, CA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Press Brake Machine Set Up Operator We are seeking a skilled Press Brake Machine Set Up Operator to join our team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for setting up and operating CNC press ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPress Brake Set Up Operator Jobs

Press Brake Set Up Operator information

See salary details

$13

$20

$26

How much do press brake set up operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for press brake set up operator in the United States is $20.51, 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a press brake set up operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Press Brake Set Up Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, blueprint reading skills, and experience with metal fabrication, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with CNC press brake machines, measuring instruments like calipers and micrometers, and safety protocols is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication help ensure accurate setups and efficient teamwork. These skills and qualities are vital for maintaining production quality, minimizing errors, and ensuring workplace safety.

What does a press brake set up operator make?

A press brake set up operator typically earns an hourly wage or salary that varies based on experience, location, and industry. They may also receive benefits such as health insurance, paid time off, and overtime pay. Compensation can increase with skill level and certifications in machine operation and safety.

What is the difference between Press Brake Set Up Operator vs CNC Machine Operator?

AspectPress Brake Set Up OperatorCNC Machine Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, technical training, or certifications in machine operationHigh school diploma, technical training, or certifications in CNC programming and operation
Work EnvironmentManufacturing shops, metal fabrication facilitiesManufacturing plants, metalworking shops, fabrication facilities
Job FocusSetting up and operating press brakes for bending metal sheetsProgramming, setting up, and operating CNC machines for various manufacturing tasks

While both roles involve metalworking in manufacturing environments, the Press Brake Set Up Operator specializes in configuring and operating press brakes for bending metal, whereas the CNC Machine Operator handles a broader range of CNC equipment for diverse machining tasks. Understanding these differences helps employers and job seekers identify the right role based on skills and industry needs.

Is press brake set up operator a good career?

A press brake set up operator is a skilled manufacturing role involving preparing and adjusting machinery to bend metal sheets accurately. It offers steady employment opportunities, especially for those with technical skills, and can lead to advancement into supervisory or specialized positions. The job typically requires attention to detail, safety awareness, and familiarity with tools and measurements.

What are some common challenges press brake set up operators face when working with new or complex metal forming projects?

Press Brake Set Up Operators often encounter challenges when working with new or complex metal forming projects, such as interpreting intricate blueprints, ensuring precise machine calibration, and selecting appropriate tooling for unique bends. These tasks require strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills to prevent material waste or production delays. Operators frequently collaborate with engineers and quality control staff to resolve issues and optimize processes, making teamwork and communication essential in this role.

What does a press brake set up operator do?

A Press Brake Set Up Operator is responsible for setting up and operating press brake machines, which are used to bend, form, or shape metal sheets and plates according to specifications. They read blueprints or work orders, select appropriate tooling, adjust machine settings, and ensure quality standards are met during production. Their role is critical in manufacturing industries that require precise metal fabrication, such as automotive, aerospace, and construction.
More about Press Brake Set Up Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Press Brake Set Up Operator jobs? Cities with the most Press Brake Set Up Operator job openings:
What states have the most Press Brake Set Up Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Press Brake Set Up Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Press Brake Set Up Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Press Brake Set Up Operator jobs are:
Press Brake Set Up Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Press Brake Set Up Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,657 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

Press Brake Set Up Operator

Abrams Airborne Manufacturing Inc

Tucson, AZ • On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Press Brake Set Up Operator

Do you take pride in getting a setup exactly right? Abrams Airborne Manufacturing is looking for a skilled Press Brake Set Up Operator to set up, run, and maintain press brake equipment that bends and forms metal parts to precise specifications. You'll play a key role in keeping our fabrication line running accurately, safely, and on schedule.

If you know your way around tooling, bend allowances, and blueprints — and you care about getting the first piece right every time — this is a great fit.

What You'll Do

Set up press brake machines, including tooling, back gauges, and programs, per job requirements

Select the right dies, punches, and tooling based on material type and thickness

Load programs or manually input bend parameters as needed

Perform first-piece inspections to verify accuracy before full runs

Operate press brake equipment safely and efficiently, adjusting settings to hold dimensional accuracy throughout the run

Read and interpret blueprints, routings, and work orders

Verify part dimensions using calipers, protractors, and other measuring tools

Identify and correct forming defects, and segregate/report non-conforming material

Complete production and inspection documentation accurately

Load and unload materials safely, and maintain part identification and job tracking

Coordinate with fabrication, welding, and quality teams for smooth workflow

Maintain an organized work area following 5S and housekeeping standards

Follow all safety policies, machine guarding requirements, and PPE standards

Perform basic machine inspections and report equipment or tooling issues

What You Bring

High school diploma or equivalent

2+ years of press brake setup and operation experience preferred

Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings

Knowledge of metal forming, bend calculations, and material characteristics

Proficiency with measuring and inspection tools

Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills

Ability to follow written and verbal instructions

Forklift certification preferred, or willingness to obtain

Physical Requirements

Ability to stand or walk for extended periods on the production floor

Manual dexterity for tasks like data entry, handling documents, and using inspection tools

Ability to read detailed data, charts, and technical information on screens and paper

Ability to lift and carry up to 20 lbs.

This is a designated safety-sensitive position.

Apply