CNC Turret Punch Operator
Location: Baltimore, MD
Job Type: Contract-to-Hire
Starting Pay: $20.00/hour (Higher pay available based on experience)
Position Overview
Seeking an experienced CNC Turret Punch Operator to set up and operate CNC punching equipment for precision sheet metal production. The ideal candidate can independently complete machine setups, read engineering drawings, select and maintain tooling, inspect finished parts, and maintain efficient production with minimal scrap.
Equipment & Materials
Experience with Trumpf TruPunch, Amada Pega, Prima Power, Finn-Power, Salvagnini, or similar CNC turret punch equipment is preferred.
Experience working with:
- Aluminum
- Stainless steel
- Carbon steel
What You'll Do
Set up and operate CNC turret punch presses for sheet metal production.
Install and change punch tooling and verify programs before production.
Load and unload sheet material safely.
Confirm material type, thickness, grain direction, finish, and drawing revision before starting work.
Select appropriate tooling and understand punching clearances and sheet layout optimization.
Perform first-piece inspections before production runs.
Monitor machine operation and make adjustments to maintain part quality.
Remove completed parts while minimizing damage and scrap.
Deburr parts or route them to required secondary operations.
Read and interpret engineering drawings, work orders, and manufacturing instructions.
Identify hole locations, forming requirements, hardware locations, embosses, louvers, extrusions, countersinks, and bend reliefs.
Verify dimensions and tolerances throughout production.
Properly identify and separate work in process by job and operation.
Maintain production paperwork and follow established safety procedures.
Quality & Inspection
Perform first-piece, in-process, and final inspections.
Use tape measures, calipers, templates, and other applicable measuring equipment.
Check hole size and location, overall dimensions, formed features, and cosmetic requirements.
Identify and report engineering or dimensional discrepancies before continuing production.
Maintain quality standards while minimizing scrap and rework.
Machine & Tooling Care
Complete daily machine startup and shutdown inspections.
Clean equipment, tooling, and the work area.
Check punches, dies, and tooling for wear or damage.
Report hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical, or tooling problems promptly.
Assist with preventive maintenance when needed.
Troubleshoot machine, tooling, and programming issues as required.
Required Qualifications
3+ years of CNC turret punch press experience.
3+ years of machine setup experience.
Ability to independently perform complete machine setups.
Strong blueprint and engineering drawing reading skills.
Experience changing and maintaining punch tooling.
Experience with aluminum, stainless steel, and carbon steel.
Understanding of tooling selection, punching clearances, and material layout.
Experience using precision measuring equipment.
Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting ability.
Detail-oriented with strong communication and organizational skills.
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
Forklift experience preferred.
Physical Requirements
Ability to stand for extended periods.
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
Frequent bending, reaching, and lifting.
Ability to safely handle sheet metal and finished components.
Success in This Role
Accurate first-piece approvals.
Consistent machine productivity and uptime.
Low scrap and rework.
Proper tooling selection and maintenance.
Production schedules met consistently.
Parts produced to engineering specifications.
Accurate production documentation.
Safe operation of equipment and compliance with workplace safety procedures.
