Job Description
Press Brake/Punch Operator
Position Overview
Join a precision metal fabrication team as a skilled CNC operator responsible for transforming raw materials into custom-fabricated parts. This hands-on role combines technical expertise with problem-solving as you set up, program, and operate advanced press brake and punch equipment to meet exact customer specifications.
Salary: Based on Experience
Location: Natrona Heights, Pa
Schedule: Day Shift: 7:00 am - 5:00 pm ; Night Shift: 9:00 pm - 7:00 am (4-10 Hour days)
Client Overview
Our client is an established metal fabrication company specializing in custom precision parts for diverse industries. They operate modern CNC equipment and maintain a strong commitment to quality, safety, and continuous improvement in their manufacturing processes.
Responsibilities
- Set up and operate press brakes, horizontal bending machines, turret punches, and inline punches to fabricate metallic and non-metallic parts according to blueprints and specifications
- Calculate and program CNC controls, including retrieving, inputting, and editing machine control media to regulate bending, punching, and forming operations
- Select appropriate dies, punches, and accessories while determining proper tooling location assignments and applications
- Monitor machine operation continuously, performing quality checks using precision measuring instruments (micrometers, calipers, height gauges, Virtek laser inspection) to ensure parts meet dimensional tolerances
- Interpret complex blueprints, manuals, and technical specifications to determine dimensions, tolerances, sequence of operations, and setup requirements
- Perform finishing operations including deburring, grinding, and sanding to meet customer finish requirements
- Conduct daily preventive maintenance on assigned equipment and maintain an organized work area using 5S procedures
- Safely operate material handling equipment including forklifts and pallet jacks
- Calculate bend allowances for various materials and adjust programs as needed to maintain specifications
Requirements
Required:
- 5+ years of experience setting up and operating press brakes and CNC punch equipment
- Proven ability to read and interpret complex blueprints using various view orientations
- Strong knowledge of die and punch selection for different bending applications
- Experience with CNC programming and making real-time program adjustments
- Proficiency using precision measuring instruments (micrometers, calipers, height gauges)
- Ability to calculate bend allowances and interpret bills of materials
- Physical capability to lift, carry, push, or pull 1-50 lbs frequently
- Comfortable with frequent squatting, kneeling, bending, stooping, twisting, and reaching
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Excellent attendance record and safety-conscious mindset
Preferred:
- Experience with Virtek laser inspection systems
- Forklift certification
- Background in lean manufacturing or 5S methodology
- Ability to complete setups and production operations within routed time standards
Benefits
- 4-day work week with overtime available
- Shift differential pay
- Performance bonus program
- NTMA apprenticeship with paid reimbursement
- Continuing education with paid reimbursement
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Flexible spending account
- Life insurance (100% company-paid premium)
- Short-term and long-term disability (100% company-paid premium)
- 401(k) plan with $.50 match up to 6%
- Paid holidays, vacation, and ETO
- $150 prescription safety glass reimbursement
- Safety incentive program
- Health club membership reimbursement
- Multi-machine incentive program