Are you looking for a new opportunity where you can make an immediate impact in a fast-paced, growing West Michigan company? Do you enjoy metal fabrication and want to grow your skills? If so,Impact Fabcould be a great fit for you. We are seeking a3rd Press Brake Programmer/Operatorto join our team.
Work Schedule: 8:00 pm - 6:30 am Monday night - Friday morning with a long weekend every week
Position Summary
This role is responsible for programming, setting up, and operating press brakes to produce accurate, high-quality formed parts. The mid-level operator is expected to work independently on standard jobs, troubleshoot basic issues, and support flow on the floor without constant oversight.
This is not a “button pusher” role this is a thinking operator who understands bend sequences, material behavior, and how their work impacts downstream welding and assembly.
Key Responsibilities
Programming & Setup
- Determine proper bend sequence, tooling selection, and tonnage requirements
- Set up machines efficiently to minimize downtime and changeover time
- Verify first-piece accuracy before releasing to production
Operation
- Operate press brake to form parts to print specifications
- Adjust programs and setups as needed to maintain quality
- Monitor part quality throughout the run (angles, dimensions, flatness)
Print & Part Interpretation
- Read and interpret blueprints, including:
- Bend callouts
- Tolerances
- GD&T basics (as applicable)
- Understand how forming affects downstream processes (fit-up, welding)
Quality & Accountability
- Perform in-process inspections using calipers, angle gauges, etc.
- Document required checks per job traveler or print
- Identify and stop production on nonconforming parts
- Work with Quality (Jeff/inspection team) when issues arise
Continuous Improvement
- Suggest improvements to bend sequences, tooling, and setups
- Reduce scrap and rework through better process control
- Support lean initiatives (5S, setup reduction, flow improvement)
Team Support
- Assist less experienced operators when needed
- Communicate clearly with upstream (laser) and downstream (weld) teams
- Maintain clean and organized work area
Successful candidates will have:
Experience
- 3–7 years press brake operation experience in a fabrication environment
- Experience programming CNC press brakes (not just running parts)
- Familiar with a variety of materials (steel, stainless, aluminum)
Technical Skills
- Strong blueprint reading skills
- Solid understanding of:
- Bend allowance / bend deduction
- Grain direction
- Springback
- Comfortable using basic inspection tools
Preferred (Not Required, But Valuable)
- Experience with offline programming software (e.g., AutoPOL, VPSS, RADAN)
- GD&T familiarity
- Experience in job shop / high-mix, low-volume environment
Performance Expectations (How You’ll Be Measured)
- Quality: Parts meet print without rework
- Productivity: Jobs completed within estimated time
- Setup Efficiency: Reduced setup and changeover time
- Scrap Reduction: Minimal material waste
- Ownership: Solves problems without waiting to be told
Impact Fabis a custom fabrication shop located in Holland, Michigan. We specialize in short run productions; machine build and part prototyping. Our commitment to quality service, quality parts, and genuine respect have earned us the loyalty of our customers and a prominent place in the design for manufacturing market.
If this sounds like a position for you and we are the kind of company you see yourself with, apply today for immediate consideration! To learn more about our organization, please visit our website atwww.impactfab.com.
