CNC Brake Press Operator

Art's Way Manufacturing; Armstrong (IA); On-site; USD 25,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Art's Way Manufacturing in Armstrong, IA seeks a CNC Brake Press Operator to program, set up, and operate CNC brake presses to form metal components per blueprints and production requirements. The role emphasizes accurate setup, part quality, and safe operation within a team-driven environment.

The successful candidate will read blueprints, perform in-process inspections, and coordinate with supervisors to meet production needs.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred; equivalent experience considered.
• Six months of metal fabrication or brake press experience preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret fabrication blueprints and tolerances.

Responsibilities

• Review work orders, schedules, blueprints, and specs to determine material, dimensions, bend requirements and priorities.
• Set up and operate CNC brake presses, including select, install, align, and change tooling.
• Form metal parts across a range of thicknesses; position and support workpieces safely.
• Create CNC programs from scratch, load/modify programs, determine bend sequences and adjust settings.
• Perform first-piece and in-process inspections to verify dimensions and quality.
• Identify and report defects or machine issues; communicate needs for support.
• Complete production, material, and quality documentation accurately.
• Maintain clean, organized work area and perform routine preventive maintenance.

Skills

Blueprint reading

CNC programming

Shop math

Independent setup

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

CNC brake presses

Cincinnati machinery

Chicago equipment

Machitech equipment

Job description

• Location 5556 Highway 9,Armstrong, IA, 50514,United States
• Employee Type FT Non-Exempt

Description

We work to build a legacy by manufacturing dependable, specialized farm equipment so independent-minded operators can do the hard work that leads to sustainable, self-sufficient, and profitable operation for generations to come.

GENERAL JOB DESCRIPTION

The CNC Brake Press Operator programs, sets up, and operates CNC brake presses to form metal components according to blueprints, work orders, and production requirements. This position is responsible for accurate machine setup, part quality, safe operation, routine equipment care, and timely communication of production issues.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBLITIES

• Review work orders, production schedules, blueprints, and specifications to determine material, dimensions, bend requirements, and job priorities.
• Independently set up and operate CNC brake presses, including Cincinnati, Chicago, and Machitech equipment; select, install, align, and change punches, dies, and other tooling.
• Form small and large metal parts across a wide range of material thicknesses (approximately 22 gauge through 1-1.5 inches, depending on equipment capability); position and support workpieces safely throughout bending.
• Create CNC programs from scratch, load and modify existing programs, determine bend sequences, and adjust machine settings and back gauges to meet specifications.
• Perform first-piece and in-process inspections using tape measures, calipers, and other approved methods to verify dimensions, bends, and part quality.
• Identify and correct routine setup or forming issues; report defects, machine malfunctions, and concerns requiring additional support.
• Complete required production, material, and quality documentation accurately.
• Perform routine cleaning, inspections, and operator-level preventive maintenance; maintain an organized work area and properly care for tooling.
• Follow company safety procedures, including required PPE, machine guarding, and safe material handling; promptly report hazards or incidents.
• Coordinate with supervisors and coworkers to meet production needs and support continuous improvement.
• Use hoists and forklifts, when trained and authorized, to safely lift, position, and transport large or heavy material and finished parts.
• As trained and assigned, assist with related fabrication equipment such as shears, punch presses, and rollers; roller work may involve an overhead crane, hand torch, or plasma cutter.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE JOB

• High school diploma or GED preferred; equivalent relevant work experience will be considered in lieu of formal education.
• At least six months of relevant metal fabrication, or brake press, and blueprint-reading experience preferred; equivalent training or demonstrated ability may be considered.
• Ability to read and interpret fabrication blueprints, dimensions, and tolerances.
• Basic shop math skills and ability to accurately use tape measures and calipers.
• Ability to learn or demonstrate CNC programming, tooling selection, bend sequencing, independent machine setup, and inspection procedures.
• Ability to work independently and follow written and verbal instructions.
• Experience operating shears, punch presses, or rollers, and related overhead crane, torch, or plasma cutting equipment, preferred but not required.
• Ability to safely operate forklifts and hoists after required training and authorization.

KEY COMPETENCIES

• Attention to detail and commitment to quality
• Mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting
• Safety awareness and sound judgment
• Organization, dependability, and time management
• Teamwork, communication, and adaptability

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods during a production shift.
• Ability to frequently handle materials weighing up to 20 pounds and occasionally lift or carry up to 50 pounds, with assistance or lifting equipment when appropriate.
• Frequent use of hands and arms for gripping, positioning, and handling parts and tooling; regular bending, reaching, and repetitive movements.
• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with machinery noise and other typical shop conditions while using required protective equipment.

This is not necessarily an all-inclusive list of job-related responsibilities, duties, skills, efforts, requirements or working conditions. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the current job, management reserves the right to revise the job or to require that other or different tasks be performed as assigned. Art's Way is proud to be an EEO employer.