Press Brake Lead

Aerotek; Michigan; On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Mileage reimbursement

Job summary

Aerotek is seeking a Press Brake Lead to operate and set up brake press machines on first shift in a fabrication environment. You will bend, cut, and assemble sheet metal to exact blueprints while leading safety and quality efforts.

Responsibilities include selecting tooling, setting die clearances, performing first‑piece inspections, logging data in Plex ERP, and assisting in other fabrication areas as needed. Travel to Muskegon warehouse occasionally.

Qualifications

• 5–8 years of experience setting up and operating brake press machines in a fabrication environment.
• Strong sheet metal fabrication background incl. bending, forming and assembly.
• Proficient in reading engineering blueprints and drawings.
• Hands-on CNC and hydraulic brake press operation and setup.
• Able to select tooling and set die clearances per material spec.
• Skilled with precision measuring tools for quality checks.
• Comfort handling aluminum, stainless steel and carbon steel.
• Able to troubleshoot non-conforming parts and adjust settings.
• Experience with general fabrication equipment like punch press and shear.
• Able to stand, bend and work on feet most of the shift.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC and hydraulic brake press machines per blueprints.
• Interpret blueprints to determine bend sequences, tolerances and specs.
• Install tooling and set die clearances for material type and thickness.
• Adjust ram positions and machine parameters for accuracy and quality.
• Perform first‑piece inspections and in‑process quality checks.
• Log output, scrap and production data in Plex ERP accurately.
• Identify root causes of non‑conforming parts and adjust accordingly.
• Carry out basic preventative maintenance on brake press equipment.
• Maintain a clean, safe workspace and support a safety culture.
• Assist in other fabrication areas as production demands require.
• Occasionally travel to Muskegon warehouse to support shipping/production.

Skills

Brake press operation

Blueprint reading

Quality inspection

Safety procedures

Team leadership

Tools

Plex ERP

Calipers

Micrometers

Job description

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Press Brake Lead
Job Description

The Press Brake Lead operates and sets up brake press machinery on first shift, working in a fabrication and machining environment to bend, cut, and assemble sheet metal components according to detailed blueprints and quality standards. This role combines hands‑on machine operation with leadership in quality, safety, and efficiency, supporting other areas of the shop when production needs arise.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate CNC and hydraulic brake press machines to bend aluminum, stainless steel, and carbon steel sheet metal according to precise blueprints and work instructions.


• Interpret and read engineering blueprints to determine bend sequences, dimensions, tolerances, and material specifications.


• Select and install appropriate tooling, including dies and punches, ensuring correct die clearances based on material type, thickness, and job requirements.


• Adjust ram positions, speeds, backstops, and machine parameters to achieve accurate bends and consistent part quality.


• Perform first-piece inspections and ongoing in-process quality checks using precision measuring tools such as calipers, micrometers, and protractors.


• Verify that all parts meet dimensional and visual quality standards and make necessary machine or tooling adjustments to maintain compliance.


• Log production output, scrap, and tracking data directly into the Plex ERP software system, maintaining accurate and timely records.


• Identify root causes of non-conforming parts, troubleshoot machine settings or tooling issues, and adjust programming or setup to eliminate defects.


• Carry out basic preventative maintenance on brake press and related fabrication equipment, including wiping down tooling, checking hydraulic fluid levels, and reporting issues.


• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area, following shop safety procedures and supporting a culture of safety and continuous improvement.


• Perform sheet metal bending, cutting, and assembly tasks as needed to support overall production flow.


• Assist in other fabrication areas, such as punch press, shear, and laser operations, when production demands require additional support.


• Stand, bend, and remain on feet for the majority of the shift while handling sheet metal components and operating equipment.


• Collaborate closely with team members to meet customer delivery requirements in an all-hands-on-deck environment.


• Occasionally travel to the warehouse facility in Muskegon to support shipping or production needs, contributing to overall team success.

Essential Skills

• 5–8 years of experience setting up and operating brake press machines in a fabrication environment.


• Strong sheet metal fabrication background, including bending, forming, and assembly processes.


• Proficiency in reading and interpreting blueprints and engineering drawings.


• Hands‑on experience with CNC and hydraulic press brake operation and setup.


• Ability to select appropriate tooling and set die clearances based on material specifications.


• Skilled in using precision measuring tools such as calipers, micrometers, and protractors for quality inspections.


• Comfort working with aluminum, stainless steel, and carbon steel materials.


• Capability to troubleshoot non-conforming parts and adjust machine settings or programming to resolve issues.


• Experience with general fabrication equipment such as punch press and shear.


• Ability to stand, bend, and work on feet for most of the workday in a manufacturing environment.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with laser fabrication equipment is a plus.


• Familiarity with Plex ERP or similar manufacturing software systems for data entry and production tracking.


• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team-oriented, collaborative environment.


• Positive, proactive attitude and willingness to do whatever it takes to help the team meet production goals.


• Strong attention to detail, organization, and commitment to quality and safety.


• Comfort working in a growing facility with evolving processes and expansion plans.

Why Work Here?

You will join a growing, family-oriented and team-focused organization that values positivity, collaboration, and a true all-hands-on-deck mindset. The work environment is flexible and supportive, with leadership that appreciates people who care about the team and take pride in getting the job done. You will work in a new, expanding facility with organized work areas, a comfortable climate, and clear opportunities to contribute across locations. Employees benefit from mileage reimbursement and additiona