Punch Press Setup Technician/Operator
About The Position
Ameristar Manufacturing, Inc. is seeking a motivated Punch Press Setup Technician / Operator to join their stamping team. This position is ideal for someone with previous punch press experience who is looking to continue developing their setup skills while working alongside an experienced team. Candidates with previous punch press setup experience are highly encouraged to apply and may qualify for a higher starting wage based on experience and demonstrated abilities. The Punch Press Setup Technician / Operator is responsible for operating, assisting with machine setups, and producing high-quality stamped components while maintaining the highest standards of safety, quality, and productivity. Working alongside the Punch Press Lead and experienced manufacturing professionals, this position offers an excellent opportunity to further develop setup skills and advance within the organization.
Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED
- Previous manufacturing experience
- Mechanical aptitude
- Ability to read blueprints and manufacturing documentation
- Strong attention to detail
- Dependable attendance and positive attitude
- Ability to work independently and within a team environment
Nice To Haves
- Previous punch press operating experience
- Previous machine setup experience
- Experience operating industrial punch presses from 60–400 tons
- Experience with progressive and compound tooling
- Familiarity with coil feed lines and automated feed systems
- Experience with magnetic die clamping systems
- Mechanical troubleshooting abilities
- Experience using precision measuring equipment
- Understanding of lean manufacturing principles
Responsibilities
- Assist with machine setups under the direction of the Punch Press Lead or Supervisor.
- Install and align dies, tooling, and feed equipment for production runs.
- Support die changeovers utilizing magnetic quick-die clamping systems.
- Assist in setting up coil feed lines, roll feeds, and material handling equipment.
- Verify first-piece inspections and make machine adjustments under supervision.
- Continue developing the skills necessary to perform independent machine setups.
- Safely operate industrial punch presses ranging from 60 to 400 tons.
- Load coils, strips, blanks, and sheet material into production equipment.
- Monitor production quality and machine performance.
- Ensure parts consistently meet customer specifications and blueprint requirements.
- Complete production documentation and maintain accurate part counts.
- Move completed jobs to the next manufacturing operation.
- Read and interpret blueprints, work orders, and manufacturing instructions.
- Inspect finished parts using precision measuring equipment.
- Identify and report tooling, machine, or quality concerns.
- Assist with troubleshooting production issues alongside department leadership.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, and efficiency.
- Follow all OSHA and company safety policies.
- Perform routine equipment inspections.
- Report equipment concerns promptly.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
- Follow all lockout/tagout and machine safety procedures.
Benefits
- Competitive compensation based on experience
- Opportunities to develop advanced machine setup skills
- Cross-training throughout multiple manufacturing departments
- Advancement opportunities into setup, lead, tooling, and other skilled manufacturing positions
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
