Setup and Tooling Lead – Press Operations for Metal Fabrication Shop

Position Summary:

The Setup and Tooling Lead – Press Operations is responsible for overseeing the efficient and accurate setup of press machinery, with a focus on tooling installation, changeovers, and machine readiness. This role provides technical leadership on the shop floor, supports continuous improvement efforts, and ensures press operations are executed safely and to specification. The Lead also plays a key role in supporting custom part requests by evaluating feasibility, recommending solutions using existing equipment, or advising on the creation of new dies or tooling. Proficiency in both manual and CNC machining is essential to support in-house tooling modifications and fabrication.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead and perform the setup of punch presses, press brakes, and related forming equipment, including tooling installation, alignment, and verification.

Coordinate and manage tooling changeovers to ensure minimal downtime and maximum equipment utilization.

Troubleshoot tooling and setup-related issues, recommending and implementing solutions as needed.

Evaluate custom part requests and provide recommendations to management on how to produce them using existing equipment or by designing and creating new dies or tooling.

Utilize manual and CNC machining equipment to support die repair, part prototyping, and small-scale fabrication tasks as needed.

Ensure proper maintenance, organization, and staging of dies, tools, and fixtures.

Provide training and support to press operators on setup procedures and safe operation of equipment.

Monitor and enforce safety, quality, and production standards during setup activities.

Maintain accurate setup documentation, tooling records, and equipment change logs.

Collaborate with supervisors and planners to schedule setups and prepare tooling for upcoming jobs.

Participate in continuous improvement efforts related to setup efficiency, tooling performance, and press operations.

Qualifications:

5+ years of experience in press operations, including hands-on machine setup and tooling work.

Strong knowledge of tooling setup procedures, die handling, and press safety protocols.

Experience with both manual and CNC machining, including setup, operation, and basic programming or adjustments.

Preferred experience with manual punch presses and traditional press operation techniques.

Ability to evaluate part feasibility and provide technical input on custom work.

Proven ability to read and interpret blueprints, setup sheets, and technical drawings.

Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.

Preferred experience in a shop management or lead role with fiscal responsibility (e.g., budgeting, cost control, or tooling procurement).

Ability to lead, train, and support others in a production environment.

Excellent communication and organizational skills.

Join our small, but growing team and see your contributions make immediate impacts!

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

401(k) matching

Health insurance

Paid time off

Schedule: 7:00AM - 3:30PM

Experience:

tool setup: 5 years (Required)

machining: 3 years (Required)

maintenance: 3 years (Preferred)

press operations: 5+ years (Required)