Press Brake Specialist

About the role

You will own the end to end setup and operation of press brake machinery to produce complex sheet metal components that meet strict quality standards. You will diagnose and resolve process issues by analyzing part prints and adjusting machine parameters to eliminate defects. You will be accountable for maintaining a safe, clean, and organized workspace while adhering to all shop rules and safety protocols. You will collaborate with engineering and quality teams to validate new programs and support continuous improvement initiatives. You will document all production activities accurately to support traceability and compliance requirements. You will mentor new operators on best practices for machine handling and safety procedures to uphold team standards. You will proactively monitor equipment health and report any concerns to maintenance to minimize unplanned downtime. You will take ownership of your schedule and deliver consistent output that aligns with customer demand and internal targets.

Key facts

What you'll do

Operate press brake machines to bend, form, and fabricate sheet metal parts according to engineering drawings and specifications.

Set up tooling, backgauges, and machine parameters to ensure each part is produced accurately and efficiently within cycle time targets.

Interpret customer requirements and internal documentation to validate that programs and setups meet quality and compliance standards.

Perform first article inspections using measuring tools such as calipers, micrometers, and height gauges to verify dimensional accuracy.

Monitor production runs in real time to detect defects, adjust machine settings, and reduce scrap and rework.

Maintain a clean and orderly work area by following housekeeping protocols and supporting 5S initiatives on the shop floor.

Coordinate with quality personnel to investigate nonconformances, implement corrective actions, and verify effectiveness of solutions.

Support lean manufacturing objectives by identifying waste, suggesting process improvements, and standardizing best practices.

Assist with changeovers for different part numbers to keep production lines flexible and responsive to customer demand.

Report equipment issues, safety concerns, and process deviations to supervisors and maintenance teams promptly.

Contribute to continuous improvement projects that enhance productivity, quality, and operator safety in the press brake area.

Follow all standard operating procedures, safety rules, and environmental guidelines to ensure compliance and safe operations.

Participate in training sessions to learn new techniques, machine features, and quality expectations as processes evolve.

Support team goals by sharing knowledge and helping coworkers meet production and quality standards.

Requirements

Must be at least 18 years of age to comply with youth employment regulations and safety requirements.

Must have the legal right to work in the United States and provide documentation as required by Proto Labs hiring policies.

Must pass a background check and drug screening as part of the pre employment process before starting employment.

Must be able to read, write, and communicate effectively in English to understand instructions and safety procedures.

Must be able to perform the essential functions of the role with or without reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities.

Must follow all company policies, safety rules, and quality procedures to maintain a compliant and secure work environment.

Must demonstrate reliability by maintaining consistent attendance and punctuality for scheduled shifts.

Must be able to work safely in a manufacturing environment that includes machinery, moving parts, and potential hazards.

Must be able to lift, push, or pull moderate weights as required by the role and as dictated by safe work practices.

Must be willing to work the scheduled shift, which may include early morning hours from 6am to 2pm on weekdays.

Must comply with all workplace safety protocols, including the proper use of personal protective equipment.

Must be able to understand and follow written and verbal instructions related to machine operation and quality standards.

Must meet all employment eligibility requirements established by federal, state, and local laws.

Must be able to work as part of a team and contribute positively to a collaborative manufacturing environment.

Nice to have

Previous experience operating press brake machinery or similar metal forming equipment.

Familiarity with reading engineering drawings, blueprints, and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing symbols.

Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies such as 5S and Kaizen.

Experience with quality tools like statistical process control charts or basic root cause analysis techniques.

Basic understanding of safety standards and best practices in a metal fabrication environment.

Ability to use measurement tools and inspection equipment accurately to verify part conformity.

Practical notes

This position operates on a shift schedule of Monday through Friday from 6am to 2pm.

Applicants must meet all eligibility requirements and pass pre employment screenings to be considered for hire.

Proto Labs is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity and encourages applicants from all backgrounds to apply.

The company reserves the right to modify schedules, duties, and requirements as business needs evolve.

Successful candidates must comply with all onboarding processes, including training and documentation, before working independently.

This role is integral to maintaining production flow and supporting customer delivery commitments in a fast paced manufacturing setting.