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Sheet Metal Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aerospace Sheet Metal Mechanic Location: Phoenix, AZ Employment Type: Full-Time Industry: Aerospace ... operating within a regulated AS9100 aerospace manufacturing environment. The ideal candidate is ...

Sheet Metal Operator I Composed of Chromalox, Durex Industries, Vulcanic, and Thermocoax businesses, Electrical Thermal Solutions (ETS), part of Spirax Group, creates electrical process heating and ...

PURPOSE OF POSITION The Sheet Metal Operator is responsible for handling, cutting, and preparing steel materials to support production operations in a safe and efficient manner. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND ...

Selects gauge and type of sheet metal, according to product specifications; sets stops or guides to ... operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Good verbal and written ...

A Sheet Metal Operator B lays out, fabricates, constructs, and inspects all types of complex experimental, developmental and production sheet metal parts, complex weldments, and assemblies. *Starting ...

A Sheet Metal Operator B lays out, fabricates, constructs, and inspects all types of complex experimental, developmental and production sheet metal parts, complex weldments, and assemblies.

A Sheet Metal Operator B lays out, fabricates, constructs, and inspects all types of complex experimental, developmental and production sheet metal parts, complex weldments, and assemblies. *Starting ...

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Sheet Metal Operator information

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$11

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$33

How much do sheet metal operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for sheet metal operator in the United States is $21.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does a sheet metal worker earn?

The average salary for a sheet metal worker is around $50,000 to $60,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled workers with specialized tools and safety training can earn higher wages, especially in industrial or construction environments.

Does sheet metal make good money?

Sheet metal operators typically earn a median annual wage that is competitive within manufacturing trades, with wages varying based on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled operators who work with advanced tools or in specialized industries can earn higher salaries, and overtime opportunities may increase overall earnings.

What is the difference between Sheet Metal Operator vs Fabricator?

AspectSheet Metal OperatorFabricator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job training, sometimes certifications in sheet metal workHigh school diploma, technical training or apprenticeship, certifications in welding or metalworking
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, workshopsFactories, construction sites, workshops
Industry UsageManufacturing, HVAC, aerospace, automotiveConstruction, manufacturing, custom metalwork
Job FocusOperating and maintaining sheet metal machinery, cutting, bending, assemblingDesigning, cutting, welding, assembling metal components

While both roles work with metal, a Sheet Metal Operator primarily operates machinery to shape and assemble sheet metal parts, often following detailed specifications. A Fabricator, on the other hand, is involved in designing and creating metal components, including welding and assembling, often requiring more technical skills and broader metalworking knowledge.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Sheet Metal Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sheet Metal Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, manual dexterity, and experience with sheet metal fabrication, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with CNC machines, press brakes, shears, and CAD software is typically required, along with relevant safety certifications. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork help individuals excel in this role. These skills ensure precise fabrication, workplace safety, and efficient collaboration, all critical for delivering high-quality metal products.

What are some common challenges faced by Sheet Metal Operators, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Sheet Metal Operators often encounter challenges such as working with tight tolerances, handling heavy or awkward materials, and maintaining safety standards around cutting and forming equipment. To address these, operators must stay attentive to detail, follow safety protocols rigorously, and communicate closely with team members and supervisors to ensure accuracy and prevent errors. Continuous training on new machinery and safety updates also helps Sheet Metal Operators adapt efficiently and maintain high-quality output.

Where do sheet metal workers get paid the most?

Sheet metal workers tend to earn higher wages in regions with a strong construction or manufacturing industry, such as certain states or metropolitan areas. Factors like experience, certifications, and the complexity of projects also influence pay rates, with unionized positions often offering higher compensation.

What does a Sheet Metal Operator do?

A Sheet Metal Operator is responsible for cutting, shaping, and assembling sheet metal materials to create parts or products used in construction, manufacturing, or maintenance. They use various tools and machines such as shears, presses, and rollers to measure, cut, and bend metal sheets according to specifications. The role also involves reading blueprints, ensuring quality control, and maintaining safety standards. Sheet Metal Operators often work in factories, workshops, or construction sites and may collaborate closely with other tradespeople.

What jobs pay $2000 a day?

High-paying jobs that can reach $2000 a day often include specialized roles such as senior project managers, certain engineering positions, or highly experienced consultants. These roles typically require advanced skills, certifications, or extensive experience, and may involve working in industries like construction, oil and gas, or finance. Such positions are usually project-based or involve high levels of responsibility and expertise.
What cities are hiring for Sheet Metal Operator jobs? Cities with the most Sheet Metal Operator job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Sheet Metal Operator jobs? The top employers for Sheet Metal Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Sheet Metal Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Sheet Metal Operator jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Sheet Metal Operator jobs? For Sheet Metal Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Sheet Metal Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 26% Full Time, 72% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,741 per year, or $21 per hour.

$19.13 - $20.10/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Description

Who we are
ESPEC North America (ENA) is partner in environmental and accelerated reliability test chambers and solutions with a long history and deep expertise in making the world a better place through better quality, higher reliability products.


Mission
We continually aim to grow and evolve by building mutually responsive, innovative partnerships with our customers, vendors, and strategic allies, and creating opportunities for our team members. Our cornerstone is to be the most reliable and accessible supplier of testing solutions.


Exciting news! We're looking for a Sheet Metal Operator to join our team. If you're seeking a role with an awesome benefits package, a 4-day work week with up to 75% Friday overtime, and no mandatory weekend work, this could be for you! Work in a clean environment and discover opportunities for advancement. 


Working Schedule: 6:00AM-4:30PM Monday-Thursday with up to 75% Friday OT required.


Summary

Supports the sheet metal department by learning to safely and efficiently operate 1 of the following machines within the sheet metal department: Shear, Laser, Small Bystronic, Large Bystronic, Cincinnati Press, Panel Bender, or Turret machine. 


Essential Duties and Responsibilities 

Level I Sheet Metal Operators will be assigned to learn the operation of one of the following machines upon hire: Shear, Laser, Small Bystronic, Large Bystronic, Cincinnati Press, Panel Bender, or Turret machine. The following outlines the essential duties and responsibilities for each machine.


Shear Operation:

Pulls steel and cuts according to the run list. 

Processes work orders according to information on the Traveler instruction. 

Labels parts with program numbers for identification. 

Handles rework as required. 

Unloads incoming steel shipments. 

Inspects, tags, and stores steel. 

Operates forklift for material handling. 

Maintains a clean workspace and performs routine machine maintenance. 

Provides machine operator training. 


Laser Operation:

Executes production jobs according to the run list. 

Changes nozzles as needed. 

Labels parts with appropriate part numbers. 

De-burs parts to remove excess material. 

Processes work orders, verifying steel specifications against information provided on the Traveler.

Handles rework as required. 

Loads steel onto the tower for automated processing.

Operates forklift for material handling. 

Maintains a clean workspace and performs routine machine maintenance.

Provides operator training on the machine. 

Supports and guides less experienced operators to run the night shifts, ensuring efficient setup and operation. 


Turret Operation:

Executes production jobs according to the run list. 

Performs necessary tool changes based on set-up instructions. 

Clips and de-burs parts as required. 

Labels parts with appropriate part numbers and job numbers.

Processes work orders and verifies steel according to the information on the Traveler.

Replaces dull tooling and handles rework as necessary. 

Operates forklift for material handling. 

Maintains a clean workspace and performs routine machine maintenance.

Provides operator training on the machine. 

Supports and guides less experienced operators to run the night shifts, ensuring efficient setup, operation and proper tool changes. 


Large Bystronic Operation:

Interprets engineering drawings to understand part specifications and manufacturing requirements.

Forms jobs according to the metal provided and the specified run list. 

Creates work orders by accurately transferring information from Travelers. 

Operates the sheet metal roller machine to shape and form metal components.

Maintains a clean and organized work area and performs routine machine maintenance.

Provides training to new operators on machine operation. 

Supports and guides competent operators in programming numerical controls and setting up tooling and lengths. 


Small Bystronic Operation:

Analyzes engineering release prints and standard prints to understand part specifications and manufacturing requirements.

Forms jobs according to metal provided from machines and follows run list.

Creates work orders according to the information provided on the Travelers. 

Operates the sheet metal roller machine to shape and form metal components. 

Maintains a clean and organized work area and performs routine machine maintenance.

Supports and guides competent operators in programming numerical controls, setting up proper tooling, and adjusting lengths according to form prints.


Panel Bender Operation:

Analyzes engineering release prints and standard prints to understand part specifications and manufacturing requirements.

Forms jobs according to metal provided from machines and follows run list. 

Creates work orders according to the information provided on the Travelers. 

Handles rework as required. 

Operates the sheet metal roller machine to shape and form metal components. 

Maintains a clean and organized work area and performs routine machine maintenance.

Provides training for new operators on machine operation.

Supports and guides competent operators in developing new programs for the machine and saving part information. 

Requirements

Qualifications 

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability that may be necessary for this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.


Education

High school diploma or general education degree (GED) required.


Skills and Experience

Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide required.

Must be able to read calipers and a tape measure.

Basic computer skills are required.

Previous forklift experience preferred, willingness to learn is required (onsite training will be provided).

Previous machine experience preferred. 


Competencies 

Mechanical aptitude: Understands how machines work and can troubleshoot basic problems.

Continuous Learning: Seeks feedback to improve performance; pursues training and development opportunities; strives to continuously build knowledge and skills; shares expertise with others.

Problem Solving: Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; works well in group problem solving situations.

Communications: Exhibits good listening and comprehension; keeps others adequately informed.

Cooperation: Exhibits tact and consideration; offers assistance and support to co-workers; works cooperatively in group situations.

Oral Communication: Speaks clearly and persuasively in positive or negative situations; responds well to questions; participates in meetings.

Teamwork: Gives and welcomes feedback; contributes to building a positive team spirit; puts success of team above own interests; supports everyone's efforts to succeed.

Dependability: Follows instructions, responds to management direction; takes responsibility for own actions; completes tasks on time or notifies appropriate person with an alternate plan.

Quality: Demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness; monitors own work to ensure quality.

Quantity: Meets productivity standards; completes work in a timely manner.

Safety and Security: Observes safety and security procedures; reports potentially unsafe conditions; uses equipment and materials properly.


Language Skills 

Ability to read and comprehend multiple step instructions (in the English language), short correspondence, and memos. 


Physical Demands 

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this Job the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms and talk or hear. 

Regular use of ladders at elevated heights, harness use as required.

The employee is frequently required to climb or balance. 

The employee is occasionally required to stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. 

The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. 

Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and color vision.


Work Environment 

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is occasionally exposed to moving mechanical parts. 

May also be required to perform lock out tag out on energized jobs and will need to understand lock out tag out procedures. 

The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.


Guiding Principles

To perform the job successfully, an individual will demonstrate the following Guiding Principles:

Respect: Respect for people, cultures, and the environment.

Improvement: Continuously improve work processes and seek innovation.

Safety: Prioritize the safety of employees and customers. 

Effective: Complete work in the most cost-effective and efficient way. 

Innovative: Take on new challenges to provide cutting-edge optimal solutions for customers.

Lawful: Adhere to laws in all locations where we work.

Ownership: Take initiative, be accountable, and have a positive attitude.

Urgency: Respond quickly and effectively to co-workers and customers.

Delivery: Set clear expectations and delivers on promises.

Open-Minded: Be curious, receptive to new ideas, and responsive to changing customer needs.Â