CNC Fabrication Technician - Punch Press Operations

Key Responsibilities Production & Machine Operation

Set up and operate CNC turret punch press equipment for sheet metal manufacturing.

Install, change, and align tooling according to production requirements.

Verify machine programs and setup configurations before running jobs.

Load and unload raw materials while following safe material handling practices.

Confirm material specifications, including thickness, type, grain direction, and finish.

Perform first-article inspections before releasing jobs to production.

Monitor machine operation and make necessary adjustments to maintain quality and efficiency.

Remove and stage completed parts without causing damage to finished surfaces.

Deburr parts when required or route them for additional manufacturing processes.

Maximize sheet utilization and minimize material waste.

Blueprint Interpretation

Read and interpret blueprints, work instructions, engineering drawings, and production documents.

Verify dimensions, tolerances, revision levels, and manufacturing specifications.

Understand sheet metal features including:

Embosses

Louvers

Extrusions

Countersinks

Hardware locations

Bend reliefs

Hole placement requirements

Ensure all production requirements are met prior to processing material.

Quality Inspection

Conduct first-piece, in-process, and final inspections.

Use precision measuring tools including:

Tape Measures

Calipers

Inspection Templates

Verify hole sizes, locations, formed features, and overall dimensions.

Identify and communicate any drawing, specification, or engineering concerns.

Ensure completed components meet established quality standards.

Documentation & Organization

Maintain accurate work-in-process identification throughout production.

Organize completed components by job, operation, or production stage.

Record production information accurately and completely.

Support workflow efficiency through proper material and part tracking.

Equipment Care & Safety

Perform daily startup and shutdown equipment checks.

Inspect punches, dies, and tooling for wear, damage, or performance issues.

Keep machines, tooling, and work areas clean and organized.

Report hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical, or tooling concerns promptly.

Assist with preventive maintenance activities when needed.

Follow all workplace safety procedures and guidelines.

Required Qualifications Minimum of 3 years of CNC turret punch press experience .

Ability to independently perform complete machine setups.

Experience changing, maintaining, and troubleshooting punch tooling.

Strong blueprint reading and manufacturing document interpretation skills.

Experience working with:

Aluminum

Stainless Steel

Carbon Steel

Understanding of tooling selection, punch clearances, and sheet layout optimization.

Ability to work independently and manage production priorities effectively.

Preferred Equipment Experience Experience operating one or more of the following systems is highly valued:

Trumpf TruPunch

Amada Pega

Prima Power

Finn-Power

Salvagnini

Similar CNC turret punch press equipment

Preferred Background CNC Turret Punch Press Operations

Sheet Metal Fabrication

Precision Measurement and Inspection

Machine Setup and Changeovers

Metal Processing of Aluminum, Stainless Steel, and Carbon Steel

Skills & Abilities Strong mechanical aptitude

Excellent blueprint reading ability

Knowledge of punch tooling setup and maintenance

Troubleshooting skills related to machine operation, tooling, and programs

High attention to detail

Effective communication skills

Strong organizational abilities

Ability to work with minimal supervision

Forklift experience is a plus

Physical Requirements Ability to stand for extended periods during the workday.

Frequent bending, reaching, and movement throughout the shift.

Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.

Capability to safely handle sheet metal materials and finished products.

What Success Looks Like Top performers in this role consistently demonstrate:

Accurate first-article inspections

Strong productivity and machine utilization

Low scrap and rework rates

Effective tooling management and maintenance

Consistent production output

Quality-focused workmanship

Reliable production recordkeeping

Safe operation of equipment and adherence to workplace safety standards