CNC Fabrication Technician - Punch Press Operations
Location: Baltimore, MD
Job Type: Contract-to-Hire
Starting Pay: From $20.00 per hour (higher starting rate available based on experience)
Position Summary
We are hiring a skilled CNC Fabrication Technician with experience operating CNC turret punch press equipment in a sheet metal manufacturing environment. This role is responsible for machine setup, production operation, quality verification, tooling changes, and maintaining efficient workflow throughout the fabrication process.
The ideal candidate can independently perform full machine setups, interpret technical drawings, and produce precision sheet metal components that meet dimensional and cosmetic quality requirements.
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
