Punch Press Tooling & Production Operator

Location: Wood Dale, IL

Reporting line: Production Manager

Make your impact

Help us advance safety, quality, and throughput in our metal stamping operations. You’ll own the press setup from tooling selection to first-piece approval, support operators on challenging runs, and keep production moving with disciplined maintenance and inspection.

Responsibilities

• Set a range of progressive tools in punch presses; install and align fixtures.
• Prepare all process inputs: materials, lubricants, packaging, and more.
• Confirm correct material thickness and gauge; move tooling via cart, tray, or forklift.
• Configure accurate material feeds; produce and validate first pieces to print.
• Operate presses to meet production needs; label and package products properly.
• Conduct in-process visual inspections for burrs, scrapes, rust, and other flaws.
• Measure parts using gages, micrometers, calipers, etc.; adjust settings to maintain spec.
• Verify and adjust hydraulic and mechanical safety controls.
• Perform routine equipment maintenance; maintain a clean, orderly workspace.
• Troubleshoot tooling and die protection; resolve daily issues with cross-functional teamwork.
• Train and assist operators on difficult jobs or unusual instructions; reset work when required.
• Complete all related documentation accurately and on time.
• Follow company policies and procedures, including safety and attendance requirements.
• Engage in activities that build skills, improve processes, and elevate product quality.
• Perform other duties as needed to support business goals.

Qualifications

• Ability to learn to speak, read, and communicate in English.
• Ability to read blueprints and apply basic shop math.
• Technical understanding of punch press equipment and related systems.
• Recognize and differentiate raw materials (stainless steel, cold rolled steel, etc.).
• Effective communicator with strong teamwork and interpersonal skills; high attention to detail.
• OSHA-required training: Lock-out/Tag-out, Hazard Communication, PPE, Emergency Evacuation.
• Certified Forklift Driver; experience with hoist and crane operation.

Physical requirements

• 20/20 vision required with or without correction.
• Continuous use of hands; strong manual dexterity.
• Stand or walk for the entire shift; frequent twisting, bending, and leaning.
• Work in an industrial environment with occasional exposure to loud noise, dust, solvents, coolants, and oils.

FLSA

FLSA

Non-Exempt