Punch Press Operator

Location: Whittier, CA

Employment Type: Full-Time

About Our Client

Our Client is a leading precision metal stamping manufacturer specializing in high-quality aerospace components. With a strong commitment to quality, precision, and continuous improvement, Our Client utilizes advanced manufacturing processes and state-of-the-art equipment to produce complex metal components that meet strict aerospace industry standards.

Our Client provides a stable work environment, competitive compensation, excellent benefits, and opportunities for long-term career growth within a fast-paced precision manufacturing operation.

Position Overview

Our Client is seeking a dependable and detail-oriented Punch Press Operator to join their aerospace manufacturing team in Whittier, CA. The ideal candidate will have experience operating punch presses, CNC equipment, manual machining equipment, or other precision machining equipment and possess the ability to manufacture high-quality components while maintaining tight tolerances and meeting daily production goals.

This position offers an excellent opportunity for both experienced Punch Press Operators and machinists with transferable manufacturing experience who are looking to expand their skills within the aerospace industry.

Key Responsibilities

Punch Press Operation

• Set up, operate, and monitor punch press equipment to manufacture precision aerospace components.

• Assemble, install, and properly align dies according to engineering specifications.

• Start and monitor machine operation while identifying any equipment misalignment or operational issues.

• Perform first-piece inspections and make necessary setup adjustments before production begins.

• Perform in-process inspections to ensure all parts meet required quality standards and AQL requirements.

Blueprint Interpretation & Manufacturing

• Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and work orders.

• Manufacture components according to design specifications and production instructions.

• Understand geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T).

• Consistently produce components within extremely tight manufacturing tolerances.

Quality Inspection

• Perform dimensional inspections using precision measuring equipment.

• Utilize micrometers, calipers, dial indicators, optical comparators, and other inspection tools.

• Maintain tolerances of ±0.001 inches and measurement accuracy of ±0.0005 inches.

• Verify product quality throughout the production process.

Equipment Maintenance

• Perform routine preventative maintenance on punch press equipment.

• Report equipment malfunctions or maintenance concerns promptly.

• Ensure machinery remains in safe operating condition.

Production Documentation

• Enter production information into the computer system.

• Record labor time, production quantities, scrap counts, and production comments.

• Maintain accurate production and quality records.

Workplace Safety & Housekeeping

• Follow all company safety policies and regulatory requirements.

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.

• Support continuous improvement initiatives and efficient manufacturing operations.

Required Qualifications

Education

• High School Diploma or GED preferred.

• Equivalent manufacturing experience will also be considered.

Experience

• 1-3 years of related machining or manufacturing experience preferred.

• Aerospace manufacturing experience is preferred but not required.

• Experience operating punch presses is preferred.

• Candidates with CNC machining, manual machining, Tool & Die, or precision machining experience are encouraged to apply.

Technical Skills

• Ability to read and interpret blueprints.

• Understanding of geometric tolerances (GD&T).

• Ability to work within tight manufacturing tolerances.

• Proficiency using:

  • Micrometers

  • Calipers

  • Dial Indicators

  • Optical Comparators

• Basic computer keyboard and data entry skills.

• Strong mechanical aptitude.

Soft Skills

• Excellent attention to detail.

• Strong work ethic and dependable attendance.

• Ability to meet production deadlines.

• Strong communication skills.

• Team-oriented attitude.

• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Ideal Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate will be:

• Experienced in precision machining or metal stamping.

• Comfortable working in an aerospace manufacturing environment.

• Able to interpret blueprints and engineering drawings accurately.

• Skilled in performing precision measurements and inspections.

• Detail-oriented with a strong focus on quality and safety.

• Reliable with excellent attendance and punctuality.

• Looking for a long-term manufacturing career.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive hourly pay based on experience

• Overtime opportunities

• Health Insurance

• Dental Insurance

• Vision Insurance

• Life Insurance

• 401(k)

• 401(k) Company Match

• Profit Sharing

• Paid Time Off (PTO)

• Paid Holidays

• Long-term career growth opportunities

Work Schedule

• Full-Time

• In-Person

• Whittier, CA

Additional Candidate Questions

Applicants should be prepared to discuss:

• Their experience operating punch presses or other precision machining equipment.

• Experience reading blueprints and engineering drawings.

• Their knowledge of precision measuring instruments.

• Experience maintaining tight manufacturing tolerances.

• Previous aerospace or precision manufacturing experience.

• Their experience with preventative machine maintenance.

• Experience working toward daily production goals in a manufacturing environment.

Why Join Our Client

• Established aerospace precision manufacturing company.

• Stable full-time employment.

• Excellent benefits package.

• Profit-sharing program.

• Modern manufacturing environment.

• Opportunities for overtime and career advancement.

• Collaborative team culture focused on quality, safety, and continuous improvement.

• Opportunity to build a long-term career in precision aerospace manufacturing.