Machine Operator

Lehigh Heavy Forge Corporation; Lincoln (NE); On-site; USD 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Lehigh Heavy Forge Corporation in Lincoln, NE is seeking a reliable manufacturing helper to support press brake and punch operations, stage materials, and ensure quality parts on the shop floor.

You will read basic blueprints and work orders, use measuring tools, maintain safe work practices, and help maintain material flow on the shop floor. This is a full-time role requiring physical stamina and attention to detail.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Physical ability to lift up to 50 pounds regularly.
• Basic understanding of measuring tools (tape measure, calipers).
• Ability to read basic blueprints and work orders.
• Strong attention to detail for quality inspection.
• Safety-conscious mindset.
• Reliable attendance.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.

Responsibilities

• Assist press brake operators with material handling and positioning.
• Support punch press operations by loading/unloading materials.
• Stage materials for press brake and punch machine operations.
• Inspect bent parts and punched components for quality.
• Read and interpret basic blueprints and work orders.
• Verify bend angles and hole locations using basic measuring tools.
• Remove and stack completed parts according to specifications.
• Deburr parts after punching operations.
• Maintain organized material flow to and from machines.
• Clean and maintain work area around press brakes and punch machines.
• Sort and separate scrap materials.

Skills

Blueprint reading

Quality inspection

Safety mindset

Attention to detail

Following instructions

Physical stamina

Reliability

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Tape measure

Calipers

Measuring tools

Material handling equipment

Forklift certification

Job description

Job Description

Key Responsibilities

• Assist press brake operators with material handling and positioning
• Support punch press operations by loading/unloading materials
• Stage materials for press brake and punch machine operations
• Inspect bent parts and punched components for quality
• Read and interpret basic blueprints and work orders
• Verify bend angles and hole locations using basic measuring tools
• Remove and stack completed parts according to specifications
• Deburr parts after punching operations
• Maintain organized material flow to and from machines
• Clean and maintain work area around press brakes and punch machines
• Sort and separate scrap materials

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Physical ability to lift up to 50 pounds regularly
• Basic understanding of measuring tools (tape measure, calipers)
• Ability to read basic blueprints and work orders
• Strong attention to detail for quality inspection
• Safety-conscious mindset
• Reliable attendance
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience in metal fabrication
• Basic knowledge of press brake and punch press operations
• Understanding of sheet metal properties
• Experience with material handling equipment
• Forklift certification
• Knowledge of basic geometric concepts

Work Environment

• Manufacturing floor setting
• Regular exposure to machinery noise
• Must wear appropriate PPE (steel-toed boots, safety glasses, ear protection, etc.)
• May involve working with sharp metal edges
• Requires standing, walking, bending throughout shift
• May involve repetitive motions

Schedule

• Full-time, typically 40 hours per week
• May include overtime as needed
• Shift work may be required

Safety Requirements

• Strict adherence to machine safety protocols
• Proper use of PPE at all times
• Understanding of emergency stop procedures
• Knowledge of proper material handling techniques