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Press Brake Set Up Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aerotek

Press Brake Operator

Marion, OH

$21 - $30/hr

Press Brake Operator / CNC Machinist $21-$30/hr 1st Shift Marion. OH Prior experience operating ... You will set up, run, and tear down CNC press brakes and CNC lathes and mills, working directly ...

Weiss Industries

Press Set-Up Operator

Mansfield, OH

$20 - $26/hr

Press Set-Up Operator Job DescriptionOverview Weiss Industries is seeking an experienced Press Set ... Press Brake * Stamping Press (Minster, Aida, Federal) * Roll Forming Machine * Laser Welder ID ...

Aerotek

Brake Press Set Up Lead

Mesquite, TX

$16.75 - $21.75/hr

Brake Press Set Up Lead $27 - $30 - up to $34 with advanced programming and complex setup ... The position provides hands-on leadership by mentoring setup technicians and operators ...

Customer Driven Staffing - Florida

Be Seen First

CNC Press Brake Operator / Set Up

Orlando, FL · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

CNC Press Brake Operator / Set Up CD Staffing is a locally owned and operated staffing firm based in Orlando, Florida with locations throughout Florida, North Carolina, and Tennessee. We currently ...

General Metals

Press Brake Operator

Pine Level, NC · On-site

$14.50 - $19/hr

As a Press Brake Operator II, you will form sheet metal by applying appropriate sheet metal ... Follow brake set up sheets to position and align tooling per specifications for simple parts (less ...

Aerotek

Press Brake Operator

Arlington, MN

$47K - $56K/yr

Set-up and operate CNC Amada press brakes * Load and unload materials efficiently * Bend metal and perform necessary fabrication tasks * Opportunity to learn and perform programming tasks Essential ...

Posted today

AmeriTech Staffing, Inc.

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Press Brake Operator

Jersey Village, TX · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Press Brake Operator Now Hiring - Experienced Press Brake Operator We are looking for an ... Set up and operate CNC press brake machines. * Read and interpret blueprints and fabrication ...

Posted today

Aerotek

Press Brake Operator

Arlington, MN

$47K - $56K/yr

Set-up and operate CNC Amada press brakes * Load and unload materials efficiently * Bend metal and perform necessary fabrication tasks * Opportunity to learn and perform programming tasks Essential ...

Posted today

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All JobsPress Brake Set Up Operator Jobs

Press Brake Set Up Operator information

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$13

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$26

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

As of Jul 22, 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 does a press brake operator make?

A press brake operator makes metal parts by setting up and operating a press brake machine to bend and shape sheet metal according to specifications. They typically earn an hourly wage or salary, which varies based on experience, location, and industry, with some roles offering additional benefits. Skills in machine setup, precision measurement, and safety are essential for this role.

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 Skills do you need to be a press brake operator?

A press brake operator needs skills in reading blueprints and technical drawings, understanding machine controls, and measuring and inspecting parts for accuracy. Proficiency with hand tools, attention to detail, and the ability to operate and troubleshoot press brake machinery are essential. Basic math skills and knowledge of safety procedures are also important for the role.

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 metalworking tools, safety procedures, and the ability to read blueprints are important skills for this role.

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.

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.

Is press brake operator a good career?

A press brake operator is a skilled manufacturing worker responsible for setting up and operating press brake machines to bend metal sheets. The role offers steady employment opportunities, especially in manufacturing and fabrication industries, and often requires technical training or certifications. It can be a stable career path with potential for advancement into supervisory or technical roles.

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.
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Press Brake Set Up Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Press Brake Set Up Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $42,657 per year, or $20.5 per hour.
Press Brake Set up Specialist

Press Brake Set up Specialist

Protolabs

Nashua, NH • On-site

$26.54 - $32.74/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Protolabs rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 81 rated plastic manufacturers

Job description

Be yourself at Protolabs 
Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. We are an equal opportunity employer, and we are committed to building a diverse team that feels they are valued in the workplace. So do you feel you do not meet every single requirement but still intrigued? We encourage you to still apply! You can help make our company even better. We do not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sexual orientation, gender, age, mental or physical ability, or any way you represent yourself. We strongly believe diversity makes for more successful teams. 
 
Why Protolabs? 
We are the leaders in digital manufacturing.  We hire doers, makers, and creative thinkers who tackle our roles with an entrepreneurial spirit.  Our culture is centered around meaningful work that brings new and innovative products to market at unprecedented speeds.  We are a diverse team that comes from all walks of life and take pride in our team who is smart, genuine, humble, and passionate about what we do.  It's our people who fuel our creativity and make our culture feel like home. 

Join our team as a Press Brake Specialist!
 
This is a skilled press break operator role. There is moderate to minimal supervision needed after training. The are responsible for manually setting up and operating a press break machine in accordance with the customer specifications.  
 
Shift: M-F 6am to 2pm
What you will do
  • Operate Amada, Cincinnati and/or Bystronics Press Brake
  • Program using all features of the press break, E.g. bending at angles, step bends, proper back gauge transfer between steps, delays, etc.
  • Must have a full understanding of blueprint reading and geometric tolerances and how they relate to the finished part
  • Thorough understanding of flat pattern layout and sequencing
  • Perform thorough part inspections and remove defective products
  • Able to calculate specific material gains and losses
  • Ability to train less experienced operators
  • Work in an efficient and timely manner
  • Keep work area, including machine surfaces clean at all times
  • Identify areas for process improvement, cost and waste reduction
  • Perform other related duties as assigned
What it takes
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • 3-5 years Sheet Metal manufacturing experience with Press Brakes
  • Knowledge of Sheet Metal in a prototype manufacturing setting or related experience and education
  • Familiarity with the tools of the trade; Microsoft Office suite of products, SolidWorks.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
  • American offset tooling knowledge
  • Understanding of how to use adapters to ensure proper height and overall dimensions.
  • Ability to use measuring instruments such as protractors, calipers, height gauges.
  • Ability to interpret and explain written and numerical data.
  • Strong attention to detail and communication skills.
  • Ability to manage time and prioritize work in an effective manner.
  • Highly developed, demonstrated teamwork skills.
  • Demonstrates a high degree of confidentiality.
  • Demonstrated ability to increase productivity and continuously improve methods, approaches, and departmental contribution while being cost-sensitive.
  • Commitment to continuous learning.
  • Commitment to customer or employee service.
Bonus to have
  • Previous experience in a Sheet Metal manufacturing environment
What is in it for you
  • We offer a competitive salary
  • In addition, we offer amazing benefits including but not limited to:
  • Health Insurance: Traditional OR High Deductible plan
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Health Savings Account (including employer contributions)
  • Dental and Vision
  • Basic and Supplemental Life Insurance
  • Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
  • Paid caregiver leave
  • You will receive 3 weeks of PTO, plus Holiday Pay and Volunteer Hours
  • 401k with company match and immediate vest
  • Employee Stock Purchase Program at a 15% discounted rate
  • Matching grants through Protolabs foundation
  • And More!
$26.54 - $32.74 an hour
Protolabs offers a competitive total rewards package, and compensation mix vary based on position, such as base wage, as well as other earnings including incentives and commissions. Actual pay offered will vary depending on multiple factors which may include, without limitation, job function, work experience, specialized skills, training, education, and certifications.
Proto Labs maintains ITAR-compliant operations in all of our United States based facilities.  Due to ITAR regulations, this role is only open to U.S. Citizens, lawful permanent residents (green card holders) or foreign nationals granted refugee or asylee status.  Individuals with temporary visas (e.g. E, F-1, H-1, H-2, L, B, J, TN or OPT) are not eligible for hire in this role.
 
Proto Labs, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer
 
Physical Demands:
While performing the essential duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to sit; use a computer keyboard, monitor and mouse, telephone and printer; reach with hands, and arms, talk, see and hear.  The employee is regularly required to stand, walk, stoop or kneel and must be able to lift and/or move up to 70 pounds. 

Work Environment:
Indoors (A/C); nonsmoking; the majority of this job function is performed in a manufacturing area exposed to machinery and noise; with eye protection and safety shoes required. Occasionally works in outside weather conditions. Occasionally works near moving mechanical parts and in high, precarious places and is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions, fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, risk of electrical shock and vibration. The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet to moderate.
  

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