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Punch Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Vertiv Co

Punch Operator- Weekend

Anderson, SC

The Punch Operator should have a steady work history that shows commitment, quality, and reliability to their work. You will report promptly to your team leader for your daily duties and will work ...

Vertiv Group Corp.

Punch Operator- Nights

Anderson, SC · On-site

The Punch Operator should have a steady work history that shows commitment, quality, and reliability to their work. You will report promptly to your team leader for your daily duties and will work ...

PeopleShare

Laser Punch Operator

Hanover, MD · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Laser Punch Operator - Night Shift $20-$21/Hour + $2 Shift Differential | Full-Time Join a Growing Manufacturing Team! We're hiring an experienced Laser Punch Operator for a full-time night shift ...

Industrial Fabricators

Laser Punch Operator

Gastonia, NC · On-site

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

TheLaser Punch Operator is responsible for setting up and operating laser punch machines to produce precision metal parts according to engineering specifications, ensuring quality, safety, and ...

IFab Corporation

Laser Punch Operator

Gastonia, NC · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

The Laser Punch Operator is responsible for setting up and operating laser punch machines to produce precision metal parts according to engineering specifications, ensuring quality, safety, and ...

Qualdoc

CNC Turret Punch Operator

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$20/hr

CNC Turret Punch Operator Location: Baltimore, MD Job Type: Contract-to-Hire Starting Pay: $20.00/hour (Higher pay available based on experience) Position Overview Seeking an experienced CNC Turret ...

Qualdoc

CNC Turret Punch Operator

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$20/hr

CNC Turret Punch Operator Location: Baltimore, MD Job Type: Contract-to-Hire Starting Pay: $20.00/hour (Higher pay available based on experience) Position Overview Seeking an experienced CNC Turret ...

Paradigm Manufacturing

Turret Punch Operator II

Hutto, TX · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

4-5 years of experience operating and setting up punch presses. Responsible for punching sheet metal parts in accordance with work orders, engineering drawings, and quality standards. Set up and ...

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Punch Operator information

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$11

$19

$25

How much do punch operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for punch operator in the United States is $19.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a punch operator?

Punch Operators are skilled workers who operate punch press machines to cut, shape, or form metal and other materials. They set up the machine, position materials, and ensure that the finished parts meet specific measurements and quality standards. Punch Operators are commonly employed in manufacturing and metalworking industries, and their role is essential in creating components for products like automotive parts, appliances, and machinery. They must follow safety procedures, perform routine maintenance on equipment, and troubleshoot minor mechanical issues as needed.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a punch operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Punch Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and experience with metal fabrication or manufacturing processes, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with punch press machines, safety protocols, and quality inspection tools like micrometers or calipers is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and reliability help Punch Operators stand out on the shop floor. These competencies ensure safe, efficient production and high-quality output in a manufacturing environment.

What are some common challenges faced by punch operators, and how can they be managed effectively?

Punch Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining precision during repetitive tasks, handling machine malfunctions, and managing production deadlines. Staying attentive to detail is crucial to prevent errors and material wastage. Regular equipment maintenance and clear communication with supervisors and maintenance teams help resolve issues promptly. Developing a routine for quality checks and collaborating with team members can also ensure efficient workflow and product consistency.

What is the difference between Punch Operator vs Die Cutter?

AspectPunch OperatorDie Cutter
Required CredentialsBasic technical training, certification in machine operationTechnical training, certification in die cutting machines
Work EnvironmentFactories, printing presses, manufacturing unitsPrinting plants, packaging industries, manufacturing units
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, printing, packagingPrinting, packaging, label production

The Punch Operator and Die Cutter roles share similarities in working environments and required certifications, often found in manufacturing and printing industries. While Punch Operators focus on operating punching machines to create holes or shapes, Die Cutters specialize in using die cutting machines to cut complex shapes from materials. Both roles are essential in production lines, but Die Cutters typically handle more intricate designs and require specific die cutting machine skills.

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Punch Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Punch Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 39% Full Time, 59% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,243 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

Punch Operator

Nashville, TN • On-site

JOHN W. MCDOUGALL CO., INC
Construction • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about JOHN W. MCDOUGALL CO., INCexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Description:


At John W. McDougall, we are more than just a leader in metal and facade solutions—we are a third-generation, family-owned business driven by innovation, craftsmanship, and a passion for transforming vision into reality. With a legacy of delivering iconic projects, we take pride in exceeding customer expectations while fostering an environment where our people thrive. 


About the Role


We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Punch Operator for 1st and 3rd Shift to join our manufacturing team. This role is responsible for the daily setup, operation, and maintenance of a punch machine to produce high-quality parts according to specifications. The ideal candidate should have experience with punch machines, the ability to read mechanical drawings, and a strong commitment to precision and safety. 

Requirements:
  •  Set up and operate a punch machine daily to produce accurate parts.
  • Load materials into the machine and ensure proper alignment.
  • Read and interpret mechanical drawings and part tolerances to ensure precision.
  • Upload and run programs from the machine controller.
  • Perform basic programming adjustments using the machine controller.
  • Conduct first article, in-process, and final inspections of parts to maintain quality standards.
  • Follow preventative maintenance schedules to ensure the machine operates properly.
  • Monitor equipment and tooling, requesting external maintenance when required.
  • Work closely with management to ensure production efficiency, safety, and on-time delivery.
  • Package finished parts according to customer requirements.
  • Operate forklifts and overhead cranes as required.
  • Assist other operators as needed on different machines.

Qualifications & Skills

  • Previous experience operating a punch machine or similar equipment.
  • Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings and part tolerances.
  • Basic programming skills for machine controllers.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality control.
  • Ability to perform inspections and make necessary adjustments.
  • Experience operating forklifts and overhead cranes (certification is a plus).
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
  • Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
  • Physical ability to lift materials, stand for extended periods, and perform manual labor.

Benefits

  • Medical, Vision, and Dental
  • Company Sponsored Life Insurance and Long-Term Disability
  • Voluntary Short Term and Life Insurance Policies offered
  • 401k with company match up to 4%
  • Company sponsored Employee Assistance Program
  • PTO

Drug-Free Workplace

We provide and require a drug-free workplace. All new hires will be subject to a pre-employment drug screening as well as randomly selected drug screenings for the duration of employment with our company. 


If you are a motivated and experienced Punch Operator looking to join a high-quality manufacturing team, we encourage you to apply!