Job Position: CNC PRESS BRAKE OPERATOR
Location: Fort Worth, TX 76140
Pay Rate: $24 - $26/hr
Shift: 1st
Description:
A CNC Press Brake Operator is a skilled professional responsible for setting up, programming, and operating Computer Numerical Control (CNC) press brake machines to bend, form, and shape sheet metal and plate materials according to engineering specifications and blueprints.
The role is critical in metal fabrication, manufacturing, and construction industries, as the operator is directly responsible for the precision and quality of the finished metal components.
Duties and Responsibilities
The primary duties of a CNC Press Brake Operator encompass four main areas: preparation, operation, quality control, and maintenance.
Machine Setup and Programming
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Blueprint Interpretation: Read and interpret engineering blueprints , technical drawings, and work orders to determine bend sequences, dimensions, tolerances, and material requirements.
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Tooling Selection: Select, install, and adjust the correct punches and dies (tooling) for each job based on material type, thickness, and required bend angle.
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Programming: Program the CNC controls (e.g., inputting material type, thickness, bend angles, and back-gauge settings) or retrieve and modify existing programs to execute the desired bending sequence.
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Initial Run: Perform a test run on scrap material (first-piece inspection) and make necessary adjustments to the program, tooling, or machine parameters (e.g., spring-back compensation) to achieve the correct part geometry.
Operation and Production
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Material Handling: Load, align, and safely position the metal workpiece onto the press brake. This may involve using material handling equipment like overhead cranes or forklifts.
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Machine Operation: Operate the CNC press brake through the programmed sequence to bend and form the materials into the specified components.
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Troubleshooting: Monitor the machine during operation, recognize potential issues (like incorrect bend angles or machine malfunctions), and perform operator-level troubleshooting and corrective actions to maintain production flow.
Quality Control and Inspection
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In-Process Inspection: Continuously check the dimensions and angles of formed parts using precision measuring instruments (e.g., calipers, micrometers, protractors, squares).
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Specification Adherence: Ensure all finished products meet the strict quality standards and dimensional tolerances defined in the blueprints.
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Documentation: Complete production logs, quality inspection reports, and other required paperwork accurately.
Maintenance and Safety
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Safety Compliance: Adhere strictly to all safety protocols (including proper use of PPE, lockout/tagout procedures, and machine guarding) to maintain a safe working environment.
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Routine Maintenance: Perform and log routine checks and preventive maintenance (e.g., cleaning, lubrication, checking fluid levels, inspecting tooling for wear) to ensure the machine remains in optimal working condition.
Required Skills and Qualifications
Technical Skills
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CNC Programming Proficiency: Strong knowledge of CNC controls for press brakes (e.g., Amada, Trumpf, Cincinnati, Delem, Cybelec).
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Advanced Blueprint Reading: Ability to read and interpret complex engineering drawings, including understanding Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) .
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Shop Math: Excellent math skills, including basic geometry, trigonometry, and the ability to perform calculations related to bend allowance and K-factor.
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Precision Measurement: Expert use of various measuring tools to ensure parts meet tight tolerances.
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Material Knowledge: Understanding of different metal types (steel, stainless steel, aluminum) and how they react during the bending process (e.g., spring-back).
Soft Skills and Physical Requirements
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Attention to Detail: Crucial for setting up the machine accurately and ensuring parts meet precise specifications.
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Problem-Solving: Ability to diagnose and correct issues with part quality, tooling, or machine operation quickly.
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Physical Stamina: The job often requires standing for long periods, lifting, pushing, or pulling heavy materials (sometimes up to 50 lbs), and good hand-eye coordination .
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Safety Consciousness: A constant commitment to safe work practices.
Education and Experience
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A High School Diploma or GED is typically required.
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A vocational certification or degree in a related field (like welding, machining, or metal fabrication) is often preferred.
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Previous experience operating press brakes or similar metal-forming machinery is usually a key requirement.
