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Shear Brake Operator Jobs in Columbus, IN (NOW HIRING)

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Shear Brake Operator information

See Columbus, IN salary details

$12

$16

$21

How much do shear brake operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for shear brake operator in Columbus, IN is $16.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.76 and $18.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a shear brake operator?

Shear Brake Operators are skilled workers who operate machines called shears and brakes to cut, shape, and bend metal sheets according to specifications. They read blueprints or work orders, adjust machine settings, and ensure the finished pieces meet required measurements and quality standards. Their work is essential in manufacturing industries where precise metal fabrication is needed for products like appliances, vehicles, and construction materials. Safety and attention to detail are critical in this role due to the powerful machinery involved.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a shear brake operator?

To thrive as a Shear Brake Operator, you need a solid understanding of metal fabrication, blueprint reading, and machine operation, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training. Familiarity with press brakes, shears, calipers, micrometers, and occasionally CNC systems is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong teamwork are essential soft skills that help operators excel in this role. These competencies ensure precise fabrication, maintain workplace safety, and contribute to efficient production processes.

What challenges do shear brake operators face and how can they be addressed?

Shear Brake Operators often encounter challenges such as working with tight tolerances, handling heavy or awkward sheet metal, and ensuring consistent quality during repetitive tasks. To address these, operators should maintain a strong attention to detail, regularly calibrate and inspect their equipment, and follow established safety protocols. Effective communication with team members, such as engineers and quality inspectors, is also important to quickly resolve issues and ensure production goals are met.

What is the difference between Shear Brake Operator vs Shear Operator?

AspectShear Brake OperatorShear Operator
Primary RoleOperates shear brake machines to bend, cut, and shape metal sheetsOperates shear machines to cut metal sheets to specified sizes
CertificationsTypically requires machine operation and safety certificationsOften requires similar safety certifications, with additional focus on cutting precision
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or metal fabrication shopsMetal fabrication or manufacturing facilities
Industry UsageCommon in metalworking, manufacturing, and fabrication industriesCommon in metalworking, manufacturing, and fabrication industries

Both Shear Brake Operators and Shear Operators work in metal fabrication environments, often requiring safety certifications. The key difference is that Shear Brake Operators focus on bending and shaping metal with brake machines, while Shear Operators primarily cut metal sheets to size. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus within the metalworking industry.

Do you need a degree to be a shear brake operator?

Shear brake operators typically do not need a college degree but require training on machinery operation and safety procedures. Employers often look for high school diplomas or equivalent and may provide on-the-job training or certifications for specific equipment. Skills in math, attention to detail, and mechanical aptitude are important for this role.

What job categories do people searching Shear Brake Operator jobs in Columbus, IN look for?

The top searched job categories for Shear Brake Operator jobs in Columbus, IN are:

What cities near Columbus, IN are hiring for Shear Brake Operator jobs?

Cities near Columbus, IN with the most Shear Brake Operator job openings:

Shear Brake Operator jobs near you

Machine Operator (Non Thermal) 2nd shift - O'Neal Steel / Shelbyville, IN

O'Neal Steel (ONI Company)

Shelbyville, IN • On-site

$25/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 9 days ago

O'Neal Steel rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

33rd of 425 rated retail wholesalers

Job description

O'Neal Steel currently has an opening for a (2nd Shift) Machine Operator (non-thermal) at our Shelbyville, IN facility.

The Machine Operator sets up and operates non-thermal processing equipment in accordance with established procedures and guidelines. Non-thermal processing equipment is defined as any machine that does not use thermal energy (heat) to cut, form, shape or otherwise process stock material. These machines include but are not limited to saws, shears, press brakes, rollers, and digi-benders. Uses computer-controlled equipment to select, position and secure automatic or semi-automatic machines. Controls and adjusts machine settings to complete tasks accurately, according to specifications, and in a timely fashion.

What you will be doing:

  • Following all safety guidelines and wearing all required personal protective equipment.

  • Set up and operate a variety of non-thermal processing equipment; saw, shear, press brake, roller, digi-bender, etc.

  • Operate a wide variety of material handling equipment, forklift, overhead crane, stacker crane, side loader, yard dog, etc.

  • Read and interpret blueprints and following work instructions.

  • Use measuring tools such as tape measure, box caliper, slide dial caliper, and micrometer.

  • Convert fractions to decimals and vice versa, add and subtract fractions and decimals.

  • Provide high quality work to all internal and external customers as related to the output of their position.

Must be able to work 2nd Shift (2:00PM - 10:00PM) Monday-Friday. Overtime will be required as needed.

*Upon offer of employment, candidates must pass a criminal background check and drug test.

What you will like about us:O'Neal offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package including, but not limited to:

  • **Potential Monthly Production Bonus **

  • Paid weekly

  • Health, Vision, and Dental Insurance

  • Work site Wellness Programs

  • Health and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts

  • Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Coverage

  • Tuition and Health club Reimbursement

  • Accidental Death and Dismemberment and Life Insurance

  • Adoption Assistance

  • Training and Development Opportunities

  • 401k

**About Us: With more than 100 years in business, O’Neal Steel, an O’Neal Industries affiliate, supplies a wide range of carbon and alloy steel, stainless steel, and aluminum products for companies nationwide. Founded in 1921 and headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama, O’Neal Steel has 19 strategically located distribution centers throughout the country that offer inventory and value-added processing capabilities tailored to market needs, all while providing high levels of customer service. O’Neal Steel’s industry-leading online platform, PRONTO®, provides continuous access to inventory, pricing, ordering, and account management.

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