Job Description Overview Join our manufacturing team as a Punch Press Operator / Die Setup Technician responsible for setting up and operating combination punch press equipment used to produce precision metal components. In our ISO-compliant manufacturing facility, you will set up punch press dies, operate production equipment, inspect completed parts, and make necessary adjustments to ensure parts are produced safely, accurately, and efficiently. This position requires hands-on mechanical ability and a strong understanding of punch press operations, die setup, part prints, material requirements, and quality standards. Your technical expertise and hands-on experience will support Haake's mission to grow domestic business and expand partnerships with companies reshoring component part manufacturing back into the USA.
Set up and operate punch press equipment to punch, form, notch, pierce, blank, and produce sheet metal components according to job specifications.
Die Setup & Changeover:
Select, install, remove, and properly align punch press dies and tooling for scheduled production jobs. Perform die changeovers efficiently while ensuring tooling is correctly positioned, secured, and ready for safe operation.
Blueprint Interpretation:
Read and interpret part prints, travelers, and inspection sheets to determine part dimensions, tolerances, material requirements, tooling, and production specifications
First-Piece Setup & Inspection:
Produce and inspect first-piece parts following setup. Verify dimensions and features against prints and inspection requirements before proceeding with production.
Quality Assurance:
Inspect parts using precision measuring tools (e.g., calipers, tape measures, angle gauges) to ensure dimensional accuracy and adherence to quality standards.
Process Compliance:
Follow manufacturing guidelines for new parts and first articles, adhering to the company's Quality Management System and ISO standards.
Efficiency Goals:
Meet or exceed production targets while minimizing setup time, scrap, downtime, and rework. Identify opportunities to improve setup and production efficiency.
Secondary Job Functions Equipment Monitoring:
Observe machine operation to detect misalignment, tooling wear, or inconsistencies; report and assist in resolving issues.
Die & Tooling Care:
Inspect dies and tooling during setup and removal for signs of wear or damage. Clean and properly store dies and tooling following use and report damaged or worn components.
Collaboration:
Work with interdepartmental team members, supervisors, tool room, maintenance and quality personnel to resolve forming or quality issues and ensure production efficiency.
Documentation:
Accurately record job and part information on travelers, inspection sheets, and production logs.
Maintenance:
Perform and document daily safety checks and basic preventative maintenance on punch press equipment.
Material Knowledge:
Understand forming characteristics of various metals (e.g., aluminum, stainless, carbon) including how material type and thickness affect punching and forming operations.
Safety Awareness:
Follow established machine guarding, lockout/tagout, die setup, material handling, and other shop safety procedures.
Workspace Organization:
Maintain a clean, organized, and hazard-free work area. Properly store dies, tooling, gauges, materials, and other equipment.
Job Requirements Technical Skills:
Experience operating mechanical, hydraulic, or combination punch press equipment Experience setting up and changing punch press dies and tooling Ability to safely install, align, secure, and remove dies Working knowledge of punch and die clearances, alignment, and basic die operation Ability to read and interpret blueprints, travelers and inspection forms Ability to understand dimensions, tolerances, and basic geometric requirements Proficiency using measurement tools such as calipers, micrometers, tape measures, and gauges Basic math skills for dimensional verification and machine setup Mechanical aptitude and ability to troubleshoot basic machine and tooling issues Ability to recognize worn or damaged dies and toolin Adhere strictly to safety protocols and PPE requirements (eye protection, gloves, hearing protection) Follow all shop safety rules and maintain a safe working environment Punctual, dependable, and team-oriented Strong attention to detail and quality Ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment Clear and legible documentation skills 2-3 years of experience with punch press operations and die set-up. Prior experience in a metal fabrication or manufacturing environment required
Work Environment & Schedule First Shift:
Full-time position, 40-hours per week, M-F.
Overtime:
Periodic overtime may be required based on production needs Exposure to manufacturing machinery and noise; PPE required at all times Compensation Competitive hourly pay based on experience Comprehensive benefits package Benefits Simple IRA Plan Simple IRA employer matching Health insurance Dental insurance Vision insurance Life insurance Health savings account (HSA) plan Health reimbursement arrangement (HRA) plan On-the-job training Paid time off Ability to Commute De Soto, MO 63020 (Required) Work Location In person Application Process Reply with your resume and a brief summary of your Punch Press and Die Set-Up experience. Note This job description is not exhaustive. Employees may perform additional duties to meet organizational needs. The company reserves the right to modify this description as needed.
Benefits:
401(k) Dental insurance Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid time off Vision insurance
