2nd Shift - Brake Press Operator

American Rheinmetall; Lansing (MI); On-site; USD 36,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

American Rheinmetall is seeking a Brake Press Operator to set up, operate, and maintain brake press equipment on our Michigan manufacturing floor. You will read blueprints, install tooling, load parts, and ensure safety devices are functional while producing high-quality parts.

The role requires a high school diploma or GED, with preferred certifications in brake press operations, and at least two years’ experience in a manufacturing environment.

Qualifications

• Reading blueprints and work instructions.
• Set up tooling in the brake press to meet job specifications.
• Load parts and ensure proper alignment.
• Operate the press safely and according to specifications.
• Understand press brake pendants and tooling.
• Maintain safety devices and PPE compliance.
• Support lean and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Collaborate across teams and maintain 5S standards.
• Willingness to obtain overhead crane permit as needed.

Responsibilities

• Read and interpret blueprints and work instructions.
• Set up tooling in the brake press to meet job specifications.
• Load parts into the brake press and ensure proper alignment.
• Operate the press according to specifications and requirements.
• Understand the functionality of the press brake pendant.
• Ensure the press brake operates safely and all safety devices are functional.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and lean manufacturing efforts.
• Support and promote the company’s mission, vision, and values in daily activities.
• Maintain positive working relationships across all levels of the organization.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area, including adherence to 5S standards.
• Follow all company policies, procedures, external regulations, and legal requirements.
• Perform other duties as assigned by management.

Skills

Read blueprints

Brake press setup

Tooling familiarity

Quality checks

Safety procedures & PPE

Lean manufacturing

Teamwork & communication

Basic computer literacy

Overhead crane permit willingness

Education

High school diploma or GED

Press brake operation certification (preferred)

In-house training or external certification in press brake operations

Equivalent combination of education and experience

Tools

Press brake tooling

Tool setup

Job description

American Rheinmetall is a leader in the design, development, and production of advanced tracked and wheeled vehicles, vehicle systems, and critical components that support U.S. military modernization. Our expertise spans electronic and mechanical systems, fabricated structures, armored products, rubber solutions, and track systems, delivering reliable innovation to both defense and commercial markets. As part of the global Rheinmetall family, we combine proven heritage with forward-looking technology to provide solutions that defend and feed the world.

Job Summary:

The Brake Press Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining brake press equipment to produce high-quality parts safely and efficiently. This role supports the company’s objectives in safety, quality, productivity, and delivery, ensuring customer satisfaction while maintaining compliance with policies, procedures, and standards.

Essential Functions:

• Read and interpret blueprints and work instructions.
• Set up tooling in the brake press to meet job specifications.
• Load parts into the brake press and ensure proper alignment.
• Operate the press according to specifications and requirements.
• Understand the functionality of the press brake pendant.
• Ensure the press brake operates safely and all safety devices are functional.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and lean manufacturing efforts.
• Support and promote the company’s mission, vision, and values in daily activities.
• Maintain positive working relationships across all levels of the organization.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area, including adherence to 5S standards.
• Follow all company policies, procedures, external regulations, and legal requirements.
• Perform other duties as assigned by management.

Minimum Qualifications:

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (as demonstrated through experience, training and/or testing)

• Working knowledge of press brake setup and operation.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and work instruction.
• Familiarity with the functionality of press brake pendants and tooling.
• Ability to perform accurate part alignment and quality checks.
• Knowledge of safety procedures and proper use of PPE.
• Ability to support lean initiatives and continuous improvement efforts.
• Strong teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Basic computer literacy for production and reporting systems.
• Must demonstrate the ability and willingness to obtain an overhead crane permit as part of job requirements.

Education:

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Certifications in press brake operation preferred.
• Completion of in-house training or equivalent external certification in press brake operations.
• Or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience:

• Minimum of two (2) years of press brake operation experience required.
• Experience with setup, tooling, and troubleshooting of brake press machinery.
• Background in manufacturing or production environment.

Background Prerequisites:

Must undergo and meet company standards for background check, employment verification, reference checks and controlled substance testing.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Additional certifications related to metal fabrication or brake press operation.
• Experience working in an ISO 14001 and/or AS9100 certified environment.
• Familiarity with 5S and lean manufacturing principles.

Working Conditions and Physical Demands:

With or without reasonable accommodations, requires the physical and mental capacity to perform effectively all essential functions. In addition to other demands, the demands of the job include:

Physical Requirements:

• Frequently: standing, walking, reaching with hands and arms, using hands to handle or feel.
• Occasionally: sitting, lifting and/or moving up to 50 pounds.
• Highly repetitive: operating brake press machinery requires repetitive motions throughout the day.

Hazards / Tasks / Ergonomic Concerns:

• Exposure to machinery, noise, and sharp materials.
• Must operate brake press and other equipment safely at all times.
• Required use of PPE including safety glasses, gloves, and steel-toe footwear.

Work Environment:

• Manufacturing production floor.
• Close proximity to other team members and machinery.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

American Rheinmetall provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sex (including pregnancy), gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or marital status, in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Equal employment opportunity, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.

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