Machine Operator Jobs

About The Position

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent work experience.
• Minimum 6–8 years of brake press operation experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Expert-level knowledge of CNC brake press operation, setup, programming, and troubleshooting.
• Demonstrated ability to independently perform complex machine setups and process optimization activities.
• Advanced understanding of tooling selection, bend deduction, bend sequencing, material characteristics, and forming techniques.
• Ability to read and interpret complex engineering drawings, blueprints, and technical specifications.
• Advanced proficiency using precision measuring instruments and inspection methods.
• Demonstrated ability to identify, diagnose, and resolve complex dimensional and quality issues.
• Experience training, mentoring, and developing manufacturing personnel.
• Strong communication, leadership, coaching, and documentation skills.
• Advanced knowledge of manufacturing safety requirements and best practices.
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Physically able to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods.
• Willingness to cross-train in other machine operator roles.
• Willingness to work flexible shifts and overtime as needed.

Nice To Haves

• Expert experience with Ermaksan and/or Cincinnati brake press equipment.
• Advanced knowledge of offline programming software and program optimization.
• Knowledge of additional fabrication equipment and processes, including laser, punch, shear, welding, and assembly.
• Experience supporting engineered-to-order and HVAC manufacturing environments.
• Demonstrated success leading process improvement initiatives.
• Lean Manufacturing and 5S experience.
• Overhead Crane Certification.
• Proven track record of achieving quality, productivity, training, and safety objectives.

Responsibilities

• Independently set up, program, operate, and optimize CNC brake press equipment to produce complex parts that meet engineering and quality requirements.
• Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, models, work instructions, and technical specifications to determine manufacturing requirements.
• Develop and optimize machine programs, tooling selections, bend sequences, and machine parameters to improve quality, productivity, and repeatability.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex setup, tooling, machine, and material-related issues while minimizing downtime and supporting production flow.
• Support new product introductions, prototype development, and complex or customer-critical fabrication projects.
• Perform and verify first-piece, in-process, and final inspections using precision measuring equipment and approved inspection methods.
• Report production, labor, scrap, rework, downtime, and process improvement activities accurately, and maintain required manufacturing documentation.
• Review and improve setup sheets, work instructions, and standard operating procedures to ensure consistency and repeatability.
• Partner with Engineering, Programming, and Quality to resolve manufacturing issues, support root-cause investigations, and implement corrective actions.
• Perform advanced operator-level preventive maintenance and identify equipment performance issues affecting safety, quality, or productivity.
• Coordinate with Maintenance to improve machine reliability, uptime, and operational effectiveness.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area in accordance with company safety standards and environmental requirements.
• Promote safe operating practices and model safety compliance and housekeeping expectations.
• Serve as the technical subject matter expert for brake press operations and guide Operators I, II, and III.
• Train, coach, and validate operator competency in machine operation, setup techniques, tooling selection, inspection methods, and troubleshooting.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives focused on setup reduction, quality improvement, waste elimination, and productivity gains.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Quality, Maintenance, and Production leadership to improve manufacturing performance and support workforce development.
• Perform other related duties and responsibilities as assigned.