Press Brake Operator (2nd Shift)

Department: Fabrication
Reports To: Fabrication Supervisor
Shift: 2nd Shift

Location: Lancaster, SC 

Pay: $19-$23/hr

Position Summary

The Press Brake Operator is responsible for setting up, programming, and operating CNC hydraulic press brakes to produce high-quality sheet metal components in a fast-paced job shop manufacturing environment. This role focuses on production efficiency, dimensional accuracy, safety, and quality while supporting a lean manufacturing team.

The operator will manufacture precision metal components used in electronic enclosures, electrical control boxes, equipment cabinets, chassis, brackets, guards, racks, frames, shelving systems, and welded assemblies. The successful candidate must be capable of interpreting blueprints, selecting tooling, performing inspections, and producing parts that meet customer specifications and production schedules.

Essential Responsibilities

Production Operations

• Operate CNC hydraulic press brakes using established programs, setup sheets, and work instructions.
• Load existing programs and perform minor program edits when required.
• Set up machines, tooling, punches, and dies for production runs.
• Determine proper bend sequence and verify machine settings prior to production.
• Run production jobs efficiently to meet daily and weekly production targets.
• Maintain consistent back-gauge contact and proper forming pressure throughout the bending process.
• Perform tool changes and machine adjustments as required.
• Minimize scrap, downtime, and rework.

Parts and Products Manufactured

The Press Brake Operator produces precision sheet metal components including:

• Custom frames
• Welded assembly components
• Industrial and commercial sheet metal products
• Steel, stainless steel, and aluminum fabricated parts

Quality Control

• Perform first-piece, in-process, and final inspections.
• Verify bend angles, flange dimensions, hole locations, and overall dimensions.
• Use calipers, tape measures, protractors, and other measuring devices to inspect parts.
• Read and interpret blueprints, job travelers, work instructions, and customer specifications.
• Identify and correct dimensional or quality issues before parts move to the next operation.
• Complete required inspection and production documentation.
• Ensure all manufactured parts meet quality and print specifications.

Material Handling

• Safely move raw materials, work-in-process, and finished products throughout the facility.
• Operate forklifts and material handling equipment safely.
• Route completed parts to the next operation, including welding, assembly, painting, powder coating, or shipping.
• Verify material types, thicknesses, and quantities before processing.

Teamwork and Communication

• Work effectively within a lean manufacturing environment.
• Communicate production issues, quality concerns, and schedule impacts to supervisors.
• Assist fabrication team members when production demands require support.
• Contribute to continuous improvement efforts that enhance safety, quality, and productivity.

Safety and Housekeeping

• Follow all company safety policies and procedures.
• Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Perform routine equipment and work area inspections.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe workstation.
• Immediately report safety concerns, equipment malfunctions, or quality issues.

Required Skills and Qualifications

Experience

• Minimum of 2 years of CNC press brake operating experience in a manufacturing or job shop environment preferred.
• Experience producing precision sheet metal components from steel, stainless steel, and aluminum.
• Experience working in a fast-paced production environment.

Technical Skills

• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and job travelers.
• Knowledge of CNC press brake operation and setup.
• Understanding of bend sequences, tooling selection, and sheet metal fabrication processes.
• Ability to read and edit machine programs preferred.
• Ability to troubleshoot minor machine and production issues.

Measurement and Inspection Skills

• Proficient with:
  • Tape measures
  • Calipers
  • Protractors
  • Angle measuring devices
  • Basic inspection equipment
• Ability to inspect parts and maintain dimensional accuracy.

Personal Attributes

• Strong attention to detail.
• Commitment to producing quality work.
• Reliable attendance and punctuality.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Positive attitude and team-oriented mindset.

Expected Results

A successful Press Brake Operator will:

• Consistently meet production goals and schedule requirements.
• Produce quality parts that meet blueprint specifications on the first run.
• Maintain low scrap and rework rates.
• Complete setups efficiently and accurately.
• Demonstrate safe work habits and maintain an excellent safety record.
• Maintain accurate production and quality documentation.
• Keep work areas organized and inspection-ready.
• Support overall shift productivity and throughput.

Key performance indicators may include:

• Parts produced per shift
• On-time job completion
• First-pass quality rate
• Scrap and rework percentage
• Setup efficiency
• Attendance and reliability
• Safety performance

Physical Requirements

• Stand and walk for extended periods throughout the shift.
• Frequently bend, stoop, reach, twist, and move materials.
• Regularly use hands and arms to handle sheet metal parts, tooling, and measuring devices.
• Frequently lift and carry materials weighing up to 20 pounds.
• Occasionally lift heavier materials with assistance or mechanical lifting equipment.
• Maintain visual acuity sufficient to read blueprints, inspect parts, and use precision measuring instruments.
• Work safely in a manufacturing environment with exposure to machinery, noise, moving equipment, and varying temperatures.

Equipment Used

• CNC Hydraulic Press Brakes
• Press Brake Tooling (Punches and Dies)
• CNC Machine Controls
• Forklifts
• Material Handling Equipment
• Tape Measures
• Calipers
• Protractors and Angle Gauges
• Hand Tools
• Work Order and Production Tracking Systems
• Blueprint and Drawing Systems

Definition of Success

Success in this role means safely producing accurate sheet metal components that meet customer specifications, maintaining production efficiency, supporting team throughput, and delivering high-quality work with minimal scrap, rework, and downtime.

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