1st Shift Press Brake Operator

Dane Manufacturing; Waunakee (WI); On-site; USD 42,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Dane Manufacturing in Waunakee, WI is seeking a Forming Operator to operate a panel bending machine to form precision sheet metal components and make adjustments to keep production running smoothly.

You will read blueprints, set up tooling, inspect parts with calipers, troubleshoot issues, and work closely with Engineering, Quality and Production teams in a safety‑minded, team environment.

Qualifications

• Read and follow blueprints, work orders, and job instructions.
• Experience with CNC equipment or panel benders preferred.
• Manufacturing or machining experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate panel bending equipment to produce sheet metal parts.
• Read and follow blueprints, work orders, and job instructions.
• Adjust machine settings, tooling, and programs for quality and efficiency.
• Inspect finished parts with calipers and gauges.
• Troubleshoot machine, tooling, and process issues.
• Perform basic cleaning and maintenance.
• Record production, downtime, and quality data.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Quality, and Production teams to resolve issues.
• Maintain clean, safe work area.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Blueprint reading

Precision measurement

Dependable

Safety-minded

Team player

Tools

Panel bending equipment

CNC equipment

Calipers

Job description

Job Details

Job Location: WAUNAKEE, WI 53597

Shape the Metal. Build the Product. Make an Impact.

Are you mechanically minded and enjoy working with machinery? Do you take pride in producing accurate, quality parts?

We’re looking for a Forming Operator to join our manufacturing team! In this role, you'll operate a panel bending machine to form precision sheet metal components while making adjustments to keep production running smoothly.

This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys hands‑on machine operation, problem‑solving, and working with precision.

WHAT YOU’LL DO

• Set up and operate panel bending equipment to produce sheet metal parts.
• Read and follow blueprints, work orders, and job instructions.
• Adjust machine settings, tooling, and programs to maintain quality and efficiency.
• Inspect finished parts using calipers, gauges, and other precision measuring tools.
• Troubleshoot machine, tooling, and process issues.
• Perform basic machine cleaning and maintenance.
• Record production, downtime, and quality information.
• Work with Engineering, Quality, and Production teams to resolve issues and improve processes.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.

THIS JOB IS A GREAT FIT IF YOU...

• Have strong mechanical aptitude and enjoy figuring out how things work.
• Can read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings.
• Are comfortable using precision measuring tools.
• Have experience with CNC equipment, panel benders, press brakes, or similar machinery.
• Pay close attention to detail and take pride in producing accurate parts.
• Are dependable, safety-minded, and work well with a team.

Manufacturing or machining experience is preferred.

WHY JOIN OUR TEAM?

We believe our employees deserve to feel like part of the team — not just another number.

• Monthly Catered Luncheons We provide catered lunches for employees on all three shifts!
• Comprehensive Benefits Package We offer a full, comprehensive benefits package designed to support our employees and their families.
• Paid ESL Classes We provide paid English as a Second Language (ESL) classes to help employees strengthen their English skills, build confidence, and succeed both at work and in everyday life.
• Team Environment Work alongside Production, Engineering, Quality, and other teams to keep our operation moving.
• Opportunity to Learn & Grow Build your skills in CNC equipment, metal forming, precision measurement, and manufacturing.
• Safety-Focused Workplace We take safety seriously and provide the PPE and training needed to perform the job safely.

READY TO MAKE YOUR MARK?

If you're mechanically minded, detail-oriented, and ready to put your skills to work, we'd love to meet you!