Press Operator - 2nd shift

Laitram LLC; Harahan (LA); On-site; USD 32,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Laitram Machine Shop in Harahan, LA is seeking a Press Operator on the 2nd shift to join our team. You will set up and operate hydraulic straightening presses, follow schedules, install tooling, load materials, and inspect parts to ensure they meet print specs.

The role requires 1+ year in manufacturing or metal forming, basic math, blueprint reading, and the ability to work independently or in a team. Overtime and occasional travel may be required.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• 1+ year experience in manufacturing, machine operation, or metal forming.
• Basic math skills for shop calculations.
• Ability to read basic blueprints, routings, or work instructions.
• Familiarity with inspection tools such as calipers, micrometers and gauges.
• Self-managed and able to work independently or in a team.
• Willingness to work overtime and travel occasionally if required.
• Excellent time management and strong verbal/written communication.
• Basic computer skills.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate hydraulic straightening presses according to job specifications.
• Follow production schedules, shop orders, drawings, routings, work instructions, and SOPs.
• Install and align tooling, dies, and fixtures for production runs.
• Load raw materials and monitor machine cycles for consistent output.
• Perform first-piece, in-process, and final inspections to ensure parts meet print specifications.
• Adjust machine parameters (tonnage, speed, feed, etc.) to maintain quality.
• Troubleshoot minor mechanical or tooling issues to minimize downtime.
• Perform routine maintenance (cleaning, lubrication, tool inspection).
• Record production data including scrap, uptime, and output.
• Follow all safety procedures and PPE requirements.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area (5S standards).

Skills

Blueprint reading

Math skills

Time management

Verbal & written communication

Independence

Teamwork

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Overhead crane

Forklifts

Stamping presses

Hydraulic presses

Calipers

Micrometers

Gauges

Job description

Laitram Machine Shop provides high-value machining and related services to the Laitram divisions and select outside customers. We are currently looking for a Press Operator on our 2nd shift to join our team. Laitram Machine Shop, provides high-value machining and related services to the Laitram divisions and select outside customers. Laitram Machine Shop is one of four operating divisions of Laitram, L.L.C.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate hydraulic straightening presses according to job specifications
• Follow production schedules, shop orders, drawings, routings, work instructions, and department Standard Operating Procedures.
• Install and align tooling, dies, and fixtures for production runs
• Load raw materials and monitor machine cycles for consistent output
• Perform first-piece, in-process, and final inspections to ensure parts meet print specifications
• Adjust machine parameters (tonnage, speed, feed, etc.) to maintain quality
• Troubleshoot minor mechanical or tooling issues to minimize downtime
• Perform routine maintenance (cleaning, lubrication, tool inspection)
• Record production data including scrap, uptime, and output
• Follow all safety procedures and PPE requirements
• Maintain a clean and organized work area (5S standards)

Requirements

• Has a high school diploma or equivalent.
• 1+ year experience in manufacturing, machine operation, or metal forming.
• Basic math skills (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, working with fractions).
• Ability to read basic blueprints, routers, or work instructions
• Familiarity with inspection tools (calipers, micrometers, gauges)
• Is a self-managed individual able to work well independently or in a team environment.
• Is flexible and responsive to changing demands.
• Willingness to work overtime and travel occasionally if required
• Possess excellent time management skills.
• Possess strong verbal and written communications skills.
• Possess basic computer skills.
• Must be able to perform the essential job requirements identified in the Functional Job Description for this position, including the ability to lift 47 pounds.

Desired Qualifications

• Experience with GD&T.
• Experience with stamping, punch press, or hydraulic presses.
• Experience with overhead crane
• Experience operating forklifts.