Press Brake Operator

Kinperium-Hiniker LLC; Mankato (MN); On-site; USD 24,000 - 26,000; Full time

Job summary

Kinperium-Hiniker LLC in Minnesota is seeking a Press Brake Operator to set up and operate CNC and manual press brakes to bend, form, and shape sheet metal per precise engineering blueprints. You will read complex drawings, select tooling, and perform first-piece and in-process inspections with calipers, micrometers, and height gauges to ensure geometric tolerances.

Experience of 1–3+ years in metal fabrication, a high school diploma or GED, and familiarity with major brands (Cincinnati, Trumpf,

Qualifications

• High school diploma, GED, or relevant vocational training.
• 1–3+ years’ hands-on press brake setup/operation in metal fabrication.
• Familiarity with major press brake brands (Cincinnati, Trumpf, Amada, Bystronic, Prima Power).

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate manual or CNC press brake machines to bend sheet metal per drawings.
• Determine tooling based on material, bend radius, and sequence requirements.
• Read and interpret engineering drawings, routes, sketches, and CAD models.
• Perform first-piece and in-process inspections with calipers, micrometers, height gauges.
• Troubleshoot bend variations and machine alignment issues.
• Safely load and position raw materials using overhead cranes, forklifts, or lifters.
• Maintain 5S and PPE compliance, and conduct basic daily maintenance.

Skills

CNC press brake operation

Blueprint reading

Geometric tolerancing

Education

High School Diploma or GED

CPBO certification (FMA) - a plus

Tools

Cincinnati

Trumpf

Amada

Bystronic

Prima Power

Job description

Kinperium-Hiniker LLC (Hiniker) is a Minnesota based manufacturer. With roots in the agricultural equipment industry going back to 1970 and continuing today, we know how to build tough, productive, reliable equipment. Hiniker is known for sturdy cultivators, efficient shredders, and niche equipment such as the cover crop seeder and NH3 monitors.

In 1995, Hiniker branched into designing and manufacturing snow removal equipment, which is a trusted tool for many. Hiniker snow and ice equipment is built to enable the operator to work as efficiently as possible. We do this with innovative and purpose-built designs like the Hiniker C-Plow and the Hiniker Scoop Plow. We also manufacture a line of spreaders and skid steer plows. In 2024, we expanded our offerings with the acquisition of Daniels Plows, further strengthening our commitment to high-quality snow removal solutions.

We are currently seeking a Press Brake Operator with experience in manufacturing and warehouse environments. This position is located in Mankato, MN.

The Press Brake Operator is responsible for setting up and operating computer numerical control (CNC) and manual press brake machines to bend, form, and shape sheet metal according to precise engineering blueprints. This role ensures high-quality components are manufactured safely, efficiently, and within defined geometric tolerances to support seamless downstream assembly.

Press Brake Operator Key Responsibilities

• Machine Operation: Safely set up, adjust, and operate manual or CNC press brake machinery to shape sheet metal and heavy plate components.
• Setup & Tooling Selection: Determine correct standard or custom tooling (punches, dies, V-openings) based on metal thickness, bend radius, and sequence requirements.
• Blueprint Interpretation: Read, interpret, and work directly from complex engineering drawings, job routing sheets, sketches, and 3D CAD design models.
• Quality Inspection: Perform frequent first-piece and in-process visual and dimensional checks using precision inspection tools, including calipers, micrometers, protractors, and height gauges.
• Precision Troubleshooting: Identify and correct common machine errors, bend variations, material springback issues, or mechanical alignment faults.
• Materials Management: Safely load, position, and handle raw material plates using overhead cranes, forklifts, or sheet lifters as needed.
• Maintenance & Workplace Safety: Conduct basic daily machine cleaning and preventative maintenance checks, adhering strictly to 5S lean manufacturing guidelines and standard PPE safety compliance.

Press Brake Operator Qualifications & Requirements

• Educational Foundation: High School Diploma, GED equivalent, or relevant technical vocational certification. Certified Press Brake Operator (CPBO) credentials from the Fabricators & Manufacturers Association (FMA) are a plus.
• Professional Experience: [1 to 3+] years of dedicated hands-on experience setting up and operating press brake machines within a metal fabrication setting.
• Technical Knowledge: Strong operational familiarity with industrial machinery brands [e.g., Cincinnati, Trumpf, Amada, Bystronic, Prima Power].
• Mathematical Aptitude: Solid foundational math, geometry, and basic trigonometry skills to accurately calculate flat patterns, bend allowances, and angles.

EOE/Minorities/Females/Veterans/Disabled. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

Compensation details: 24-26 Yearly Salary

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