Machine Operator - Brake Press

Forte Opening S; Howell (MI); On-site; USD 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading metal fabrication company in Michigan seeks a skilled operator to set up and operate press brakes for bending metal sheets. The role requires attention to detail and a solid understanding of metal fabrication processes. Knowledge in reading machining sheets is essential. Ideal candidates will thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced environment. The position includes physical requirements such as lifting up to 60 lbs, ensuring a quality-focused approach to production.

Qualifications

• Solid working knowledge of press brake operation and metal fabrication processes.
• Ability to read and interpret machining sheets and work orders.
• Metalworking or metal fabrication experience is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate press brakes to bend metal sheets.
• Inspect finished parts to ensure accuracy and specifications.
• Maintain a clean and safety-compliant work environment.

Skills

Press brake operation

Metal fabrication processes

Attention to detail

Job description

At USA Wood Door, we deliver tailored solutions with trusted service, exceptional quality, and superior speed. Our team works closely together and with our customers to understand project needs, craft custom doors, frames, and metal components, and deliver them fast—often in two weeks or less. With deep expertise and a commitment to reliability, we help customers solve problems and keep projects on track across industries like healthcare, hospitality, education, and retail. If you’re ready to make an impact in a collaborative, fast‑paced environment, join USA Wood Door and help lead the way in speed, service, and quality.

This position is based in our metal door shop, where precision, craftsmanship, and efficiency support our growing metal fabrication operations. Metalworking experience is a strong plus.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate press brakes to bend, punch, or form metal sheets and plates in the metal door shop.
• Manually handle, lift, and position metal sheets into the press brake, ensuring proper alignment before bending.
• Read and interpret machining sheets, templates, and written work orders to determine materials, tooling, and sequence of operations.
• Input programming data—such as material type, bend angles, and tooling parameters—into the machine controller.
• Select, install, adjust, and change machine tooling for various jobs.
• Inspect finished parts and door components to ensure accuracy and conformity to specifications.
• Perform operations as required by work orders to configure doors and related components.
• Operate all machines safely and efficiently, performing periodic maintenance and reporting equipment issues or safety concerns to the Shop Supervisor.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safety‑compliant work environment.
• Follow all quality control guidelines and notify the Shop Supervisor of any discrepancies, defects, or quality concerns.
• Demonstrate competence and working knowledge of each machine you are trained and certified to operate.
• Complete assignments efficiently to maximize production without compromising safety.
• Notify the Shop Supervisor when arriving late, leaving early, or upon completion of daily work orders; additional tasks may be assigned.

Qualifications

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Performs work under general supervision.
• Handles moderately complex issues and refers more complex problems to higher‑level staff.
• Solid working knowledge of press brake operation, metal fabrication processes, and general shop practices.
• Ability to read and interpret machining sheets, templates, and work orders.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Metalworking or metal fabrication experience is a plus.

Physical Requirements

• Lift 1–30 lbs frequently (up to 50% of an 8‑hour day)
• Lift 30–60 lbs regularly (up to 30% of an 8‑hour day)
• Lift 60+ lbs occasionally (up to 25% of an 8‑hour day)
• Push/pull up to 100 lbs with assistance seldom (up to 13% of an 8‑hour day)
• Kneel occasionally (up to 25% of an 8‑hour day)
• Squat occasionally (up to 25% of an 8‑hour day)
• Stoop frequently (up to 25% of an 8‑hour day)
• Work with extended arms seldom (up to 13% of an 8‑hour day)