Metal Machine Operator

Job Summary

The Metal Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining a variety of metal fabrication equipment to produce high-quality parts and components according to production specifications. This role works within a manufacturing environment, ensuring production goals, quality standards, and safety requirements are consistently met. The position requires operating machinery, performing quality inspections, troubleshooting equipment issues, recording production data, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives while working collaboratively with production, engineering, and quality teams.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Set up and operate metal fabrication equipment including CNC press brakes, punch presses, drill presses, grinders, spot welders, saws, tube benders, shears, laser cutters, turret punches, CNC sheet folders, and roll-forming machines.
• Follow blueprints, technical drawings, work instructions, and standard operating procedures to manufacture parts accurately.
• Perform machine programming and program modifications when required.
• Conduct routine quality inspections of finished products to ensure compliance with specifications.
• Troubleshoot machine and production issues and coordinate with maintenance personnel as needed.
• Collaborate with engineering and quality teams to resolve manufacturing challenges.
• Assist with machine setup, adjustments, and basic preventive maintenance activities.
• Monitor equipment performance and report operational issues to supervisors.
• Record production data, complete required documentation, and perform ERP/computer system transactions.
• Support assembly, packaging, and preparation of finished products for shipment.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment following safety regulations and 5S standards.
• Assist in training and mentoring new machine operators.
• Participate in cross-training initiatives and provide support to other departments when required.
• Contribute to continuous improvement efforts focused on safety, quality, productivity, and efficiency.
• Work effectively as part of a team to achieve production and operational goals.

Minimum Requirements / Skills

• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude and basic mathematical skills.
• Ability to use hand tools, measuring instruments, and precision equipment.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to product quality.
• Ability to read and follow work instructions and technical documentation.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Proficiency in using computer systems for production reporting and data entry.
• Ability to learn and perform multiple manufacturing tasks.
• Understanding of workplace safety procedures and manufacturing best practices.
• Ability to lift, move, push, and pull materials and equipment as required.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience in manufacturing, fabrication, or machining environments.
• Experience operating CNC equipment and metal fabrication machinery.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings.
• Technical training, vocational education, or trade school certification.
• Forklift certification or ability to obtain certification.
• Experience with machine setup, troubleshooting, and process improvement initiatives.

Owatonna, Minnesota, United States

2026 June 18 Virtual NY & Minn - Wenger Corp