Press Break Operator

American Metal Fabricators; Gastonia (NC); On-site; USD 36,000 - 50,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Life Insurance

401(k)

Dental insurance

Health insurance

Paid time off

Vision insurance

4 day work week

Job summary

American Metal Fabricators, located in Gastonia, North Carolina, is seeking an experienced Press Brake Operator. This role involves operating and setting up mechanical press brakes to fabricate high-quality metal components. The ideal candidate will possess expertise in metal forming processes and a commitment to quality workmanship.

Join our skilled team and contribute to innovative metal fabrication solutions within a fast-paced manufacturing environment!

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience operating and setting up mechanical press brakes.
• Strong knowledge of metal forming processes and tolerances.
• Ability to read a tape measure to 1/16 inch.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate mechanical (non-CNC) press brakes to manufacture parts.
• Select appropriate dies and tooling based on part specifications.
• Calculate and apply bend allowances and tolerances.

Skills

Operating mechanical press brakes

Die selection

Blueprint interpretation

Attention to detail

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Mechanical press brakes

Shear equipment

Job description

Benefits:

Life Insurance

4 day work week

401(k)

Dental insurance

Health insurance

Paid time off

Vision insurance

Company Overview

At American Metal Fabrication (AMF), we take pride in delivering high-quality custom metal products with precision, speed, and reliability. With decades of experience serving a wide range of industries, we specialize in everything from sheet metal work to complex fabrication projects. Our team thrives on craftsmanship, innovation, and a commitment to exceeding customer expectations. We believe in building lasting relationships—with our clients, our suppliers, and most importantly, our employees. If you're looking to be part of a hands‑on, solutions‑driven environment where your work truly matters, you'll find a home at AMF.

Job Summary

American Metal Fabrication is seeking an experienced Press Brake Operator to join our growing team. This position requires hands‑on experience operating and setting up mechanical (non‑CNC) press brakes. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of metal forming processes, including die selection, bend allowances, bend deductions, material tolerances, and machine setup required to produce parts that meet engineering drawings and specifications.

The Press Brake Operator will be responsible for preparing, setting up, adjusting, and operating press brake equipment to fabricate sheet metal components. Candidates must be able to read and interpret blueprints, accurately measure materials, and inspect finished parts to ensure quality standards are met. The ability to read a tape measure accurately to 1/16" is required.

This is an excellent opportunity for a skilled fabrication professional who enjoys working in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment and takes pride in producing high‑quality work.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Set up and operate mechanical (non-CNC) press brakes to manufacture parts from sheet metal and metal plate.
• Select the appropriate dies, tooling, and machine settings based on part specifications and material requirements.
• Calculate and apply bend allowances, bend deductions, and tolerances to ensure parts meet drawing specifications.
• Read and interpret blueprints, work orders, and product drawings.
• Measure, align, and position materials for accurate forming.
• Inspect finished products for quality, dimensional accuracy, and compliance with specifications.
• Operate shear equipment as needed.
• Perform routine machine adjustments and basic maintenance.
• Maintain a safe, organized, and clean work area.
• Follow all company safety procedures and quality standards.

Required Skills and Abilities

• Experience operating and setting up mechanical press brakes (non-CNC required).
• Strong knowledge of press brake tooling, die selection, and metal forming techniques.
• Understanding of bend allowances, bend deductions, tolerances, and material behavior during forming.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and production plans.
• Ability to accurately read a tape measure to 1/16 inch.
• Ability to safely and effectively operate press brake and shear equipment.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience operating and setting up mechanical press brakes preferred.
• Metal fabrication experience required.
• Experience working with sheet metal fabrication and forming processes strongly preferred.

Join Us

Join us as we build innovative solutions through skilled craftsmanship!