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Punch Press Setup Technician / Operator

Ameristar Manufacturing, Inc.
Mankato, Minnesota

Build Your Career with a Company Built to Last Since 1908

Ameristar Manufacturing has been a trusted leader in metal manufacturing for over 115 years. We specialize in metal stamping, precision laser and waterjet cutting, CNC fabrication, welding, machining, and assembly. Our continued investment in advanced equipment, technology, and our employees has made us one of Southern Minnesota's premier manufacturing companies.

We are seeking a motivated Punch Press Setup Technician / Operator to join our stamping team. This position is ideal for someone with previous punch press experience who is looking to continue developing their setup skills while working alongside an experienced team.

Candidates with previous punch press setup experience are highly encouraged to apply and may qualify for a higher starting wage based on experience and demonstrated abilities.

Position Summary

The Punch Press Setup Technician / Operator is responsible for operating, assisting with machine setups, and producing high-quality stamped components while maintaining the highest standards of safety, quality, and productivity.

Working alongside the Punch Press Lead and experienced manufacturing professionals, this position offers an excellent opportunity to further develop setup skills and advance within our organization.

Equipment You'll Work With

Our stamping department features a wide variety of equipment, including:

• Industrial punch presses ranging from 60 to 400 tons
• Automated coil feed lines
• Servo roll feed systems
• Magnetic quick-die clamping systems
• Progressive and compound tooling
• Short-run and high-volume production equipment

Experience operating similar equipment is highly preferred.

Primary Responsibilities

Machine Setup

• Assist with machine setups under the direction of the Punch Press Lead or Supervisor.
• Install and align dies, tooling, and feed equipment for production runs.
• Support die changeovers utilizing magnetic quick-die clamping systems.
• Assist in setting up coil feed lines, roll feeds, and material handling equipment.
• Verify first-piece inspections and make machine adjustments under supervision.
• Continue developing the skills necessary to perform independent machine setups.

Production

• Safely operate industrial punch presses ranging from 60 to 400 tons.
• Load coils, strips, blanks, and sheet material into production equipment.
• Monitor production quality and machine performance.
• Ensure parts consistently meet customer specifications and blueprint requirements.
• Complete production documentation and maintain accurate part counts.
• Move completed jobs to the next manufacturing operation.

Quality & Continuous Improvement

• Read and interpret blueprints, work orders, and manufacturing instructions.
• Inspect finished parts using precision measuring equipment.
• Identify and report tooling, machine, or quality concerns.
• Assist with troubleshooting production issues alongside department leadership.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, and efficiency.

Safety

• Follow all OSHA and company safety policies.
• Perform routine equipment inspections.
• Report equipment concerns promptly.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Follow all lockout/tagout and machine safety procedures.

Qualifications

Required

• High School Diploma or GED
• Previous manufacturing experience
• Mechanical aptitude
• Ability to read blueprints and manufacturing documentation
• Strong attention to detail
• Dependable attendance and positive attitude
• Ability to work independently and within a team environment

Preferred

• Previous punch press operating experience
• Previous machine setup experience
• Experience operating industrial punch presses from 60400 tons
• Experience with progressive and compound tooling
• Familiarity with coil feed lines and automated feed systems
• Experience with magnetic die clamping systems
• Mechanical troubleshooting abilities
• Experience using precision measuring equipment
• Understanding of lean manufacturing principles

What Makes You Successful

The ideal candidate will demonstrate:

• Strong work ethic
• Mechanical aptitude
• Positive attitude and willingness to learn
• Strong communication skills
• Excellent troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities
• Commitment to quality
• Ability to work safely and efficiently
• Pride in producing quality work
• Desire to continue learning and advancing within manufacturing

Career Growth Opportunities

At Ameristar Manufacturing, we believe in promoting from within and investing in our employees.

Our facility offers:

• An on-site Tool & Die Department supporting progressive and compound tooling
• Experienced Department Leads who provide training and mentorship
• Opportunities to develop advanced machine setup skills
• Cross-training throughout multiple manufacturing departments
• Advancement opportunities into setup, lead, tooling, and other skilled manufacturing positions

If you're motivated to grow your manufacturing career, Ameristar provides the resources and support to help you succeed.

Compensation

Compensation is competitive and based on experience.

Candidates with previous punch press setup experience, tooling knowledge, and the ability to perform machine setups may qualify for a higher starting wage.