Prototype Press Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

**CNC Press Brake Operator

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**Pay: $25.00–$30.00 per Hour, Based on Experience

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**Job Type:

** Full-Time | Direct HireSchedule: 8–10 Hour ShiftsIndustry: Manufacturing | Sheet Metal Fabrication | Precision Metal Forming

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced CNC Press Brake Operator to support precision sheet metal fabrication operations. This position is responsible for programming, setting up, and operating CNC press brake equipment to form sheet metal components according to engineering drawings, blueprints, and dimensional specifications.

This is not strictly a machine operator position. The successful candidate should be capable of independently determining appropriate tooling and machine setups, programming the press brake, completing first-piece verification, and making adjustments necessary to consistently produce quality parts.

The ideal candidate has strong press brake experience, excellent blueprint-reading and measuring skills, and the ability to work independently while supporting daily production requirements.

**Key Responsibilities

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CNC Press Brake Programming & Operation

• Program, set up, and operate CNC press brake equipment.

• Create or modify machine programs based on engineering drawings and job requirements.

• Determine appropriate bending sequences to efficiently manufacture components.

• Select and install appropriate punches, dies, and tooling based on:

• Calculate and adjust bend allowances, bend deductions, and other forming parameters.

• Set back gauges, ram depth, angles, and other machine parameters.

• Perform first-piece runs and make necessary programming or setup adjustments.

• Monitor machine operation throughout production to maintain consistent part quality.

**Blueprint & Engineering Drawing Interpretation

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• Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and manufacturing specifications.

• Understand dimensions, tolerances, bend locations, angles, and part orientation.

• Translate drawing requirements into appropriate press brake programs and setups.

• Verify material type, thickness, and dimensions before beginning production.

• Identify potential forming or manufacturing issues before running parts.

**Setup & Tooling

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• Perform complete press brake setups independently.

• Select appropriate tooling for each job.

• Install and properly align punches and dies.

• Determine efficient part orientation and bending sequence.

• Make adjustments to compensate for material variation and springback.

• Safely perform tooling changes between jobs.

• Maintain tooling in an organized manner and identify worn or damaged components.

**Quality & Inspection

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• Perform first-piece and in-process inspections to verify parts meet specifications.

• Use precision measuring equipment including:

• Verify bend angles, dimensions, hole locations, and overall part geometry.

• Identify out-of-tolerance conditions and make appropriate machine or programming adjustments.

• Maintain a strong first-time-quality mindset.

• Separate and report nonconforming material when required.

**Production & Process Optimization

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• Organize jobs to support daily production schedules and customer requirements.

• Optimize programs and bending sequences to improve productivity.

• Minimize unnecessary material handling and machine movements.

• Reduce setup and changeover times when possible.

• Work closely with Production, Engineering, Quality, and other fabrication personnel to resolve manufacturing issues.

• Communicate job status, equipment issues, and production concerns to appropriate team members.

• Support continuous-improvement activities related to quality, productivity, and manufacturing efficiency.

**Machine Maintenance & Safety

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• Perform routine equipment inspections and basic preventive maintenance.

• Identify machine or tooling issues that could affect safety or part quality.

• Maintain press brake equipment and surrounding work areas in clean, organized condition.

• Follow established machine safety and lockout/tagout procedures.

• Properly use required PPE.

• Follow all applicable manufacturing and shop safety requirements.

**Required Qualifications

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• Previous experience programming, setting up, and operating CNC press brake equipment.

• Strong knowledge of sheet metal fabrication and forming processes.

• Ability to independently perform press brake setups and tooling changes.

• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and engineering drawings.

• Experience working with dimensional tolerances and bend requirements.

• Ability to use calipers, micrometers, angle gauges, and other measuring equipment.

• Understanding of bend allowance, bend deduction, springback, and forming fundamentals.

• Strong shop math skills involving fractions, decimals, angles, and measurements.

• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting ability.

• Ability to work independently with limited supervision.

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.

• Dependable, safety-focused, and capable of meeting production deadlines.