Brake Press Operator- 2nd Shift
About The Position
The Brake Press Operator sets up and operates hydraulic and/or CNC brake press machines to form metal components for heat exchanger production. This role supports the Iron Ridge facility as the primary feeder plant for the Franklin manufacturing site and ensures components meet specifications, quality standards, and production schedules. The operator selects tooling and machine settings based on work orders, blueprints, and material specifications; performs first-piece inspections and adjustments; reads process instructions and travelers; measures and documents parts and production data; and reports non-conforming materials or equipment issues. The role also includes following safety procedures, maintaining an organized work area, conducting routine preventive maintenance checks, and collaborating with production, quality, and material-handling teams to support workflow and continuous improvement.
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Previous brake press or fabrication equipment experience; 5 years preferred.
- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and use precision measuring tools.
- Strong mechanical aptitude and basic math skills.
- High attention to detail and quality.
- Ability to stand for extended periods.
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. repeatedly and safely handle sheet metal.
- Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination.
Nice To Haves
- Experience in metal fabrication or heat exchanger manufacturing.
- Familiarity with CNC-programmed brake presses, such as Amada, Cincinnati, or Ermaksan.
- Forklift or overhead crane experience, or willingness to obtain certification.
Responsibilities
- Set up and operate brake press equipment to bend, form, and straighten metal sheets, fins, brackets, and related components.
- Select appropriate tooling, dies, and machine settings based on work orders, blueprints, and material specifications.
- Perform first-piece inspections and adjust machine settings to meet dimensional and quality requirements.
- Use the MES digital workstation to start jobs and maintain accurate production records.
- Read and interpret blueprints, process instructions, and travelers.
- Inspect parts using calipers, gauges, protractors, and other precision measurement tools.
- Document part counts, inspections, and production data accurately.
- Identify and report non-conforming materials or machine issues promptly.
- Follow safety procedures, including lockout/tagout, PPE use, and machine-guarding requirements.
- Maintain a clean, organized work area following 5S standards.
- Conduct routine preventive maintenance checks and communicate equipment needs.
- Collaborate with welders, laser operators, QA, and material handlers to support efficient workflow.
- Assist with material staging, movement, and inventory accuracy to meet feeder commitments.
- Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance quality and productivity and reduce scrap.
Benefits
- Paid vacation
- Personal time
- Paid holidays
- 401(k) with company match
- Incentive bonus opportunities
- Comprehensive benefits
- Positive, team-oriented work culture
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
