PRESS BRAKE OPERATOR in Polkton, North Carolina at Southern Fabricators

Job Title: Press Brake Operator
Location: Polkton, NC
Department: Manufacturing / Production
Reports To: Production Supervisor / Department Manager
Employment Type: Full-Time

The Press Brake Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining press brake machinery to produce accurately formed metal components according to engineering drawings and production specifications. This position requires a strong understanding of metal bending processes, machine operation, and quality standards to ensure finished products meet customer requirements. The Press Brake Operator must demonstrate mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a commitment to workplace safety.

This role requires the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced manufacturing environment while maintaining consistent production quality. By ensuring proper machine setup, accurate bending operations, and routine equipment inspections, the Press Brake Operator plays an essential role in supporting production goals and maintaining high-quality manufacturing standards.

• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow all company safety policies and procedures.

• Read and interpret blueprints, shop drawings, and work orders to determine bending sequences and production requirements.

• Set up and operate press brake machinery to bend and form metal components according to job specifications.

• Select and install appropriate tooling, including dies and punches, based on material type and job requirements.

• Perform daily equipment inspections, including checking oil levels, hydraulic systems, control panels, and tooling conditions.

• Identify basic equipment issues, perform minor troubleshooting, and notify maintenance personnel when necessary.

• Measure and inspect finished parts using calipers, protractors, gauges, and other precision measuring tools.

• Ensure bends meet required dimensions, tolerances, and company quality standards.

• Adjust machine settings and setups as needed to correct errors and maintain accuracy.

• Communicate regularly with supervisors and work leads to coordinate workflow and meet production schedules.

• Report material shortages, defective parts, equipment malfunctions, and other production concerns promptly.

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.

• Demonstrate consistent attendance, punctuality, and productivity throughout assigned shifts.

• Previous experience operating press brake machinery or similar metal fabrication equipment preferred.

• Ability to accurately read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and work orders.

• Familiarity with press brake tooling, machine controls, and metal bending processes.

• Basic understanding of equipment troubleshooting and maintenance procedures.

• Proficiency in using precision measuring tools, including calipers, protractors, and gauges.

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality components.

• Knowledge of workplace safety procedures and proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).

• Good communication skills and ability to work effectively in a team environment.

• Ability to follow instructions and work efficiently with minimal supervision.

• Physical ability to stand, bend, reach, and perform repetitive tasks throughout the shift.

• Ability to lift up to 100 lbs.

• Strong work ethic, reliability, and commitment to maintaining consistent attendance and productivity.

Strong mechanical aptitude, blueprint reading, and precision measuring skills are essential for operating press brake machinery accurately and efficiently. Knowledge of metal bending processes, tooling selection, and machine setup ensures components are formed according to engineering specifications and quality standards. Basic troubleshooting and equipment inspection skills help minimize downtime and maintain consistent production performance. Attention to detail, effective communication, teamwork, and adherence to safety procedures contribute to a productive, organized, and safe manufacturing environment.

This position is not limited to the duties listed above. The supervisor may assign additional tasks as needed to support production and operational requirements.