Press Brake Operator Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of advanced manufacturing, the demand for Press Brake Operators is steadily increasing.

The industry advances, and with each progression, the need for skilled personnel who can operate, maintain, and ensure the efficiency of our press brakes becomes critical.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s actually expected from a Press Brake Operator?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the world of precision manufacturing,

You’ve landed on the right page.

Today, we present a fully customizable Press Brake Operator job description template, created for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Press Brake Operator Duties and Responsibilities

Press Brake Operators are responsible for fabricating and manufacturing parts for various industries using a press brake, a computer numeric controlled (CNC) piece of equipment that makes precision bends, punches, or cuts into material.

The duties and responsibilities of a Press Brake Operator include:

• Reading, interpreting, and following job orders and blueprints.
• Setting up and operating the press brake machine to bend, punch, form, shape or straighten metal plates or sheet metal.
• Using precision measuring tools such as calipers and protractors to confirm specifications and check the quality of finished pieces.
• Maintaining and cleaning machinery before and after each shift.
• Adjusting machine settings to control speed, material feed and path of the cut, as well as making sure the machines are set up properly, working well, and producing quality product.
• Testing and adjusting machine speeds or actions, according to product specifications, using gauges and hand tools.
• Inspecting assembled parts to ensure conformance to specifications.
• Performing routine machine maintenance and repair minor damages.
• Following all safety guidelines and wearing all necessary protective gear.
• Reporting any problems or discrepancies to the supervisor.

 

Press Brake Operator Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are in search of a skilled Press Brake Operator to join our manufacturing team.

As a Press Brake Operator, you will be responsible for setting up and operating CNC press brakes to create precise bends in metal parts according to blueprints and specifications.

Our ideal candidate is experienced in operating press brake machines, is proficient in reading and interpreting technical drawings, and is committed to safety protocols.

The goal is to produce high-quality parts and materials by programming and operating press brake machinery.

 

Responsibilities

• Setup and operate CNC press brake machines to bend metal parts as per the job order and blueprints.
• Ensure machines are calibrated and properly set up before beginning the production process.
• Inspect finished products for compliance with specifications and quality standards.
• Perform routine machine maintenance and troubleshooting when required.
• Interpret blueprints and drawings to understand specifications and tolerances.
• Adhere to all safety regulations and maintain a clean and safe work environment.
• Coordinate with the team and participate in meetings to improve production processes.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Press Brake Operator or similar role in manufacturing.
• Familiarity with press brake machines and other metal bending equipment.
• Ability to read blueprints and technical drawings.
• Knowledge of safety protocols and procedures in a manufacturing setting.
• High school diploma or equivalent. Certification in machining or similar field is a plus.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Physical strength and stamina to lift and move heavy items.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• On-the-job training opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Press Brake Operator
• Work Environment: Factory setting. This position may require working in shifts and handling heavy machinery.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Shop Supervisor or Manufacturing Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $32,000 minimum to $50,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Press Brake Operator Do?

Press Brake Operators work in the manufacturing sector, particularly in companies that produce metal parts and structures.

Their primary role is to operate the press brake machine, a tool used to bend and shape sheet and plate material, usually metal.

They are responsible for reading and interpreting blueprints and engineering plans to understand the required specifications, and then setting up and calibrating the machine accordingly to achieve the desired bends and shapes.

They work with precision measuring tools to check the accuracy of the bent parts, ensuring they are within the tolerances specified in the plans.

This involves adjusting the machine settings as necessary and troubleshooting any issues with the machine or the bending process.

Press Brake Operators also perform regular maintenance and cleaning of the machines to keep them in good working order.

They are responsible for observing all safety procedures and guidelines to protect themselves and their coworkers from potential harm.

In some cases, they might need to manually finish the parts, using hand tools to smooth rough edges or to make additional small bends.

They may also be asked to assist in other stages of the manufacturing process, depending on the specific needs of their employer.

 

Press Brake Operator Qualifications and Skills

A professional Press Brake Operator should possess the following skills and qualifications that align with your job description:

• Technical skills to operate, maintain, and troubleshoot CNC press brake machines and other related equipment.
• Experience in reading and interpreting blueprints and plans to understand the specifications and measurements necessary for the job.
• Physical abilities that allow them to stand for long periods, lift heavy materials, and perform precise operations.
• Strong attention to detail to ensure the production of accurate and high-quality components.
• Problem-solving skills to identify and rectify any issues that may arise during the operation of the machine.
• Knowledge of safety protocols and the ability to adhere to them to ensure a safe and secure working environment.
• Strong mathematical skills for making precise measurements and adjustments.
• Teamwork skills to collaborate with other members of the production team to achieve common goals.
• Time management skills to ensure tasks are completed in a timely manner and meet production deadlines.

 

Press Brake Operator Experience Requirements

Entry-level candidates for Press Brake Operator roles may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often through an apprenticeship or part-time role in a manufacturing or industrial setting.

These professionals can also gain on-the-job experience in roles such as Machine Operator, Production Worker, or other similar roles.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often develop their technical skills and knowledge in entry-level Press Brake Operator roles.

They might have gained proficiency in using CNC (Computer Numeric Control) machines, and are familiar with reading and interpreting blueprints and technical drawings.

Those with more than 5 years of experience often have comprehensive knowledge of metal fabrication processes, quality control, and safety regulations.

They might have experience in training other operators and could be ready for a supervisory or team-lead position.

Certain employers might also prefer their Press Brake Operator hires to have specific certifications, such as those from the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS), to ensure they have the necessary skills and knowledge for the job.

 

Press Brake Operator Education and Training Requirements

Press Brake Operators typically require a high school diploma or equivalent educational qualification.

They often receive on-the-job training, where they learn the specifics of the press brake machine, understand the blueprint reading, and gain knowledge about the various types of metals.

In addition to this, a vocational training program or certification in machine operation, metalworking, or a related field may be beneficial.

These programs typically cover topics such as machine safety, maintenance, and operation.

While not a requirement, some employers may prefer Press Brake Operators who have completed an apprenticeship program in a related field.

These programs provide practical, hands-on experience and in-depth training under the supervision of experienced workers.

It is also essential for Press Brake Operators to have a solid understanding of mathematics, precision measurement, and have excellent mechanical skills.

Ongoing learning and skill upgrade are typically required due to the continuous advancements in machine technology.

Furthermore, operators must adhere to safety regulations and be comfortable working in a manufacturing environment.

Certification in relevant safety measures is often seen as a plus by employers.

 

Press Brake Operator Salary Expectations

A Press Brake Operator can expect to earn an average salary of $37,034 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings can significantly vary based on factors such as experience, certifications, the size and location of the company, and the complexity of tasks performed.

 

Press Brake Operator Job Description FAQs

What are the skills required for a Press Brake Operator?

Press Brake Operators should have a keen eye for detail to ensure the machine is producing desired results.

They should also have solid technical skills to operate machinery effectively and troubleshooting skills to rectify any faults or errors.

Moreover, they should have a good understanding of blueprints and schematics, basic math skills for precise measurements, and good physical stamina.

 

Do Press Brake Operators need any specific qualifications?

Press Brake Operators typically require a high school diploma or equivalent.

While some companies provide on-the-job training, others might look for operators with a vocational training certificate in machine operation or related field.

Knowledge of Computer Numerical Control (CNC) operations is often preferred.

 

What should you look for in a Press Brake Operator’s resume?

Firstly, look for relevant experience in machine operation.

Check their technical skills, particularly in CNC operations, and their knowledge of safety procedures.

Also, look for their familiarity with reading blueprints and using measuring instruments.

Certifications in machine operation or relevant fields can be a plus.

 

What qualities make a good Press Brake Operator?

A good Press Brake Operator is detail-oriented and has a solid understanding of machine operations.

They are safety-conscious and always adhere to the safety protocols.

They should have good problem-solving skills to troubleshoot any operational issues.

Besides, they should be physically fit as the job often requires standing for long periods and handling heavy materials.

 

Is it difficult to hire Press Brake Operators?

Hiring Press Brake Operators can be challenging due to the specialized skill set required.

The role often requires both technical expertise and physical stamina, which can narrow the pool of suitable candidates.

Offering competitive salaries and providing a safe and healthy work environment can attract skilled operators.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we delved into the heart of what it means to be a press brake operator.

But guess what?

It’s not merely about bending metal.

It’s about shaping the future of manufacturing, one piece at a time.

Armed with our comprehensive press brake operator job description template and real-world instances, you’re ready to take the next step.

But why limit yourself?

Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your key to creating meticulously detailed job listings or refining your resume to ultimate precision.

Remember:

Every bent piece contributes to the broader structure.

Let’s construct that future. Together.