Senior Stamping Press Changeover Specialist

Tempco Manufacturing; Saint Paul (MN); On-site; USD 39,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

Tempco Manufacturing Company in Saint Paul, MN is seeking an experienced Press Setup Operator to manage large stamping presses, interpret blueprints, and ensure first-piece quality.

You’ll train Level I and II Set-Up Operators, document procedures, and drive improvements for safety, efficiency, and reliability across the shop floor.

Join a team-focused environment that values craftsmanship, stability, and professional growth while delivering precision components for our customers.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• 3+ years in metal fabrication or related work.
• Strong ability to read complex blueprints.
• Proven precision measurement and quality inspection skills.

Responsibilities

• Interpret blueprints and work instructions to set up stamping presses.
• Install and dial in tooling, stage materials, and manage changeovers.
• Lead root-cause analysis and coordinate with toolroom and maintenance.
• Train Level I/II operators and update work instructions.
• Enter production and quality data; maintain a clean, safe area.

Skills

Press setups

Blueprint interpretation

Quality inspection

Troubleshooting

Mentoring

Time management

Clear communication

Safety focus

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Calipers

Micrometers

Tape measures

Job description

Location: Saint Paul, MN | Department: Operations | Type: Full-time

A Day in the Shop

Picture the start of your shift: you check the digital dispatch board to lock in priorities, roll a progressive die to a large press, and stage coil stock and tooling so nothing delays first-piece approval. You dial in the press, set sensors and feeds, and make precision adjustments. With calipers, micrometers, and a tape measure in hand, you verify critical dimensions, tag materials correctly, and document the setup so the next run starts just as smoothly.

Mid-shift, a part shows a slight form issue. You lead a quick root-cause analysis, loop in the toolroom and maintenance, and get the press back to peak performance. Along the way, you coach a Level I operator through best practices, capture updates to the work instructions, enter production and quality data into the company system, and keep the area clean, safe, and inspection-ready.

What You’ll Handle

• Interpret complex blueprints, job routings, and work instructions with confidence.
• Set up and operate large stamping presses for optimum quality and throughput.
• Install and dial in complex tooling, including draws, forms, and progressive dies.
• Stage all required materials and tooling to enable on-time starts.
• Use dispatch displays to determine job priorities and upcoming changeovers.
• Lead root cause analysis on die or press issues; coordinate with toolroom and maintenance for repairs.
• Recommend and implement improvements that boost efficiency, quality, and safety.
• Perform precision inspections using calipers, micrometers, and tape measures; verify parts meet specifications.
• Accurately identify and label materials using tags or labels.
• Complete routine mechanical maintenance and sustain a clean, organized work area.
• Train and mentor Level I and II Set-Up Operators.
• Capture and update work instructions to drive repeatable, consistent setups.
• Enter production and quality data into the company data collection system.
• Follow all safety procedures and compliance guidelines; perform other related duties as assigned.

What You Bring

• Expert-level knowledge of press setups and tooling.
• Fluency reading and interpreting complex blueprints.
• Keen attention to detail and proven inspection/quality skills.
• Independent troubleshooting ability for press and tooling problems.
• Strong time management to meet schedule commitments.
• Clear communication with production, maintenance, and tooling teams.
• A passion for mentoring less experienced operators.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• 3+ years in metal fabrication or closely related work.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to see and hear with close, distance, and peripheral vision; depth perception and focus adjustment.
• Frequent standing, walking, and movement throughout the shift.
• Frequent hand use for handling, reaching, and operating equipment.
• Stamina for repetitive tasks and sustained focus during long shifts.
• Regularly lift up to 25 lbs; occasionally lift up to 50 lbs.

Why You’ll Like Working Here

Be part of a team-driven manufacturing environment where your craftsmanship shapes quality and delivery. You’ll find stability, room to grow your skills, and opportunities to mentor while working with advanced presses and tooling.

Compensation & Details

• Pay Range: $28 - $36/hr
• Location: Saint Paul, MN
• Department: Operations
• Hire Type: Full-Time

Proficiency & Tools

• Metal Stamping & Forming (Progressive Die)
• High School / GED
• Calipers and Micrometers