Press Brake Operator
ABOUT THE POSITION
Under the direction of the Production Supervisor and in cooperation with the Team Leader, the Press Brake Operator safely sets up and operates CNC press brake equipment to bend and form steel components used in the fabrication of heavy industrial equipment. This position is responsible for interpreting blueprints and work instructions, maintaining quality standards, and supporting production schedules while working independently with minimal supervision.
Key Deliverables
- Produce accurate, high-quality formed parts that meet blueprint and production specifications.
- Maintain production schedules by efficiently operating CNC press brake equipment.
- Accurately complete production documentation and material transactions.
- Verify bend angles, dimensions, and part quality before releasing components to the next operation.
- Maintain a safe, organized, and efficient work area.
- Identify and report equipment or quality concerns promptly.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives and assist with training new associates as needed.
- Follow all company and industry safety requirements.
Key Activities & Responsibilities
- Set up and operate CNC press brake machines to bend and form steel components according to engineering drawings and work orders.
- Select, install, and adjust punches, dies, and tooling for various forming operations.
- Read and interpret blueprints, bend schedules, work orders, and fabrication drawings.
- Verify material type, thickness, grain direction, and dimensions prior to processing.
- Perform machine setup, including back gauge adjustments, tooling alignment, and program verification.
- Inspect finished parts for dimensional accuracy, bend angles, and conformance to specifications using measuring tools and gauges.
- Safely load, position, and unload material manually or with overhead cranes, forklifts, or other material handling equipment.
- Perform minor machine adjustments and routine maintenance to ensure efficient operation.
- Accurately document production activities, material usage, and completed work.
- Report equipment issues, quality concerns, or safety hazards immediately.
- Participate in Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement activities.
- Train and mentor new team members when requested.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
To Be Successful in This Role, Your Experience and Competencies Are
- High School Diploma or General Education Diploma (GED) preferred.
- Previous experience operating CNC press brakes preferred.
- Experience with Amada, Cincinnati, Bystronic, Trumpf, Accurpress, or similar press brake equipment is a plus.
- Experience in structural steel, heavy equipment, or industrial manufacturing environments preferred.
- Ability to accurately read blueprints, fabrication drawings, bend schedules, and work instructions.
- Ability to read a tape measure and use precision measuring tools including calipers, angle gauges, and protractors.
- Experience selecting and changing press brake tooling.
- Experience operating overhead cranes and forklifts preferred.
- Basic computer skills for production tracking and documentation.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing quality work.
- Mechanical aptitude and the ability to troubleshoot minor equipment issues.
- Dependable with excellent attendance and a strong work ethic.
- Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with production teams.
- Ability to prioritize work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
- Willingness to work overtime and weekends as production demands require.
- Ability to safely lift materials, stand for extended periods, and work around heavy industrial equipment.
Our Culture and Values
Employees who become part of Astec embody the values below throughout their work:
- Continuous devotion to meeting the needs of our customers.
- Honesty and integrity in all aspects of business.
- Respect for all individuals.
- Preserving an entrepreneurial spirit and fostering innovation.
- Safety, quality, and productivity as the foundation of our success.
Equal Opportunity Employer
As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Astec does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, citizenship status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
You should be proficient in:
- Heavy Material Handling
- Precision Measurement & Inspection
Machines & technologies you'll use: