Press Brake Set Up Operator

Abrams Airborne Manufacturing, Inc.; Tucson (AZ); On-site; USD 42,000 - 58,000; Full time

Job summary

Abrams Airborne Manufacturing, Inc. is seeking a skilled Press Brake Set Up Operator to set up, run, and maintain press brake equipment that forms metal parts to precise specifications. You will ensure dimensional accuracy and product quality while keeping safety and schedule in focus.

You will read blueprints, select tooling, and load bend parameters, performing first-piece inspections and coordinating with fabrication and quality teams to maintain smooth workflow on the shop floor.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 2+ years of press brake setup and operation experience preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings.
• Knowledge of metal forming, bend calculations, and material characteristics.
• Proficiency with measuring and inspection tools.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Forklift certification preferred, or willingness to obtain.

Responsibilities

• Set up press brake machines, including tooling, back gauges, and programs, per job requirements.
• Select the right dies, punches, and tooling based on material type and thickness.
• Load programs or manually input bend parameters as needed.
• Perform first-piece inspections to verify accuracy before full runs.
• Operate press brake equipment safely and efficiently, adjusting settings to hold dimensional accuracy throughout the run.
• Read and interpret blueprints, routings, and work orders.
• Verify part dimensions using calipers, protractors, and other measuring tools.
• Identify and correct forming defects, and segregate/report non-conforming material.
• Complete production and inspection documentation accurately.
• Load and unload materials safely, and maintain part identification and job tracking.
• Coordinate with fabrication, welding, and quality teams for smooth workflow.
• Maintain an organized work area following 5S and housekeeping standards.
• Follow all safety policies, machine guarding requirements, and PPE standards.
• Perform basic machine inspections and report equipment or tooling issues.

Skills

Blueprint reading

Mechanical aptitude

Measuring tools

Troubleshooting

Education

High school diploma

Tools

Press brake

Calipers

Job description

Do you take pride in getting a setup exactly right? Abrams Airborne Manufacturing is looking for a skilled Press Brake Set Up Operator to set up, run, and maintain press brake equipment that bends and forms metal parts to precise specifications. You'll play a key role in keeping our fabrication line running accurately, safely, and on schedule.

If you know your way around tooling, bend allowances, and blueprints — and you care about getting the first piece right every time — this is a great fit.

What You’ll Do

• Set up press brake machines, including tooling, back gauges, and programs, per job requirements
• Select the right dies, punches, and tooling based on material type and thickness
• Load programs or manually input bend parameters as needed
• Perform first-piece inspections to verify accuracy before full runs
• Operate press brake equipment safely and efficiently, adjusting settings to hold dimensional accuracy throughout the run
• Read and interpret blueprints, routings, and work orders
• Verify part dimensions using calipers, protractors, and other measuring tools
• Identify and correct forming defects, and segregate/report non-conforming material
• Complete production and inspection documentation accurately
• Load and unload materials safely, and maintain part identification and job tracking
• Coordinate with fabrication, welding, and quality teams for smooth workflow
• Maintain an organized work area following 5S and housekeeping standards
• Follow all safety policies, machine guarding requirements, and PPE standards
• Perform basic machine inspections and report equipment or tooling issues

What You Bring

• High school diploma or equivalent
• 2+ years of press brake setup and operation experience preferred
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings
• Knowledge of metal forming, bend calculations, and material characteristics
• Proficiency with measuring and inspection tools
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions
• Forklift certification preferred, or willingness to obtain

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand or walk for extended periods on the production floor
• Manual dexterity for tasks like data entry, handling documents, and using inspection tools
• Ability to read detailed data, charts, and technical information on screens and paper
• Ability to lift and carry up to 20 lbs.
• This is a designated safety-sensitive position.