Press Brake Set up Specialist

About the role

Protolabs is looking for a skilled technician to manage the setup and operation of press brake machinery. This role requires an individual who can work with minimal supervision to meet specific customer requirements in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Operate and program Amada, Cincinnati, or Bystronics press brake equipment.
• Utilize all machine features, including step bends, angle bending, and back gauge transfers.
• Interpret blueprints and geometric tolerances to ensure finished parts meet specifications.
• Execute flat pattern layouts and define bending sequences.
• Conduct quality inspections and discard defective items.
• Calculate material gains and losses.
• Mentor and train junior operators.
• Maintain a clean workspace and identify opportunities to reduce waste and improve processes.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Professional experience with press brakes in a sheet metal manufacturing environment.
• Background in prototype manufacturing or equivalent education.
• Proficiency with SolidWorks and Microsoft Office.
• Strong mechanical troubleshooting abilities.
• Experience with American offset tooling and height-adjusting adapters.
• Competency with measuring tools such as calipers, protractors, and height gauges.
• Ability to analyze numerical data and communicate technical information clearly.
• Capacity to lift up to 70 pounds and perform physical tasks like standing, walking, and kneeling.

Skills & tools

• Press brake operation (Amada, Cincinnati, Bystronics)
• Blueprint reading and geometric dimensioning
• Sheet metal flat pattern layout
• Mechanical aptitude
• Measuring instruments (calipers, protractors, height gauges)
• SolidWorks and Microsoft Office

Practical notes

• Compensation includes a competitive salary and a $2,000 sign-on bonus.
• Benefits include health insurance (traditional or high deductible), HSA with employer contributions, FSAs, dental, vision, life insurance, and disability coverage.
• Additional perks: 3 weeks of PTO, holiday pay, volunteer hours, 401k with immediate vesting, and an employee stock purchase program with a 15% discount.
• Eligibility: Due to ITAR compliance, this position is restricted to U.S. Citizens, lawful permanent residents, or individuals with refugee or asylee status. Temporary visa holders (including E, F-1, H-1, H-2, L, B, J, TN, or OPT) are ineligible.
• Work environment involves exposure to machinery, noise, and occasional outdoor conditions; safety shoes and eye protection are required.