We are seeking a detail-oriented CNC Pipe Bender Operator to join our HVAC manufacturing team. In this role, you will set up and operate computer numerical control (CNC) bending machines to shape copper piping used in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning units. You will ensure all bent tubing meets exact engineering blueprints, maintains proper structural integrity, and remains free of kinks or wall-thinning. The ideal candidate has experience working with thin-wall copper tubing and understands the high-precision requirements of HVAC refrigeration lines.
Key Responsibilities
- Operate CNC Machinery: Load, set up, and run CNC rotary draw benders and multi-axis tube bending machines.
- Select correct tooling: Install and align proper mandrels, wiper dies, bend dies, and pressure dies based on tube diameter and wall thickness.
- Interpret blueprints: Read and follow engineering drawings, bend data cards, and metric/standard specifications for HVAC lines
- Perform quality checks: Inspect bent copper pipes for wrinkles, kinks, ovality, and wall-thinning using calipers, micrometers, and go/no-go gauges.
- Program adjustments: Make minor offsets and programming edits at the machine controller to account for material springback or variance.
- Prepare raw material: Cut, deburr, and clean copper tubing lengths prior to the bending process.
- Maintain production pace: Meet daily output quotas for refrigeration lines, hairpins, and manifold components while minimizing scrap material.
- Ensure workplace safety: Maintain a clean work area (5S) and strictly adhere to machine guarding and personal protective equipment (PPE) guidelines.
Required Qualifications & Skills
- Education:High School diploma or GED equivalent required.
- Experience:Minimum of 1–2 years of experience operating CNC tube or pipe bending machinery.
- Material Knowledge: Proven experience working with copper tubing (specifically types K, L, or M commonly used in HVAC).
- Blueprint Literacy: Ability to read manufacturing blueprints and understand geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T).
- Precision Measurement: Skilled in using precision measuring tools including digital calipers, micrometers, and protractors.
- Aptitude:Strong attention to detail, basic math skills, and the ability to be trained in new operational areas.
- Reliability:Ability to follow the standard work schedule based on production and business needs.
Preferred Qualifications
- Prior experience in an HVAC manufacturing facility or automotive fluid-line plant.
- Knowledge of automated loading systems or robotic interfaces attached to CNC benders.
- Basic understanding of downstream HVAC processes like tube expanding, brazing, or leak testing.
Physical Demands & Work Environment
- Physicality:Ability to stand for long periods and lift over40 lbs.
- Mobility:Physically able to reach, stretch, bend, and walk during the daily routine.
- Environment:Comfortable working in a loud, non-climate controlled shop environment.
- Shift:Standard Day Shift hours 6:00am- 4:30 pm
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