Punch Press Operator

Machine Operator – Punch Press | 1st Shift

Build Skills. Grow Your Career. Work in One of the Safest Shops in the Industry.

Looking to get your foot in the door with CNC and fabrication—or take your machine operating experience to the next level? This is a hands-on Machine Operator opportunity in a modern, climate‑controlled sheet metal fabrication shop where safety, training, and long-term careers come first.

You’ll start by operating mechanical and CNC punch press equipment while learning the fundamentals of sheet metal fabrication. From there, you’ll have clear pathways to advance into setup, programming, and journeyman-level skills through paid, on-the-job training and a state-approved apprenticeship program.

• Operate mechanical and CNC punch presses safely and efficiently
• Measure and inspect parts using tape measures, calipers, and precision tools
• Read and interpret blueprints to ensure accuracy and quality
• Perform in-process and final inspections to meet tight tolerances
• Monitor equipment, troubleshoot issues, and communicate concerns early
• Support general fabrication and material handling as needed
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safety-focused work area
• Participate in structured training with opportunities to grow into setup and advanced fabrication roles

• 1+ year of machine operating experience preferred (punch press, brake press, laser, or fabrication a plus)
• Comfortable reading a tape measure and performing basic inspections
• Strong attention to detail and pride in producing quality parts
• Safety-minded with a dependable, team‑first attitude
• Mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn

Newer operators with strong fundamentals and motivation to grow are encouraged to apply.

• Brake press or laser machine experience
• Blueprint reading skills
• Experience with calipers or precision inspection tools
• Interest in equipment setup, programming, or advanced fabrication
• Willingness to participate in a state-approved apprenticeship program

• Paid training & career path into setup, programming, and journeyman-level skills
• State-approved apprenticeship program with education reimbursement
• Opportunity to earn a fully reimbursed 2-year degree while working
• Climate-controlled, modern facility with high-end CNC equipment
• One of the safest fabrication shops in the industry
• Veteran-friendly culture with an open-door leadership team
• PPE provided at no cost – including new safety work boots
• Recognition programs and a culture built on respect, teamwork, and safety

• Health insurance & optional dental
• Short-term disability & life insurance
• 401(k) with Safe Harbor contribution + employer match
• Annual bonus opportunities
• Weekly HSA contributions (company match included)

• 1st shift, 5:30am - 4:00pm Monday-Thursday
• Weekend, Friday-Sunday
• Climate-controlled sheet metal fabrication facility
• Modern punch presses, brake presses, and laser equipment
• On-site instructor providing weekly hands-on training
• Strong focus on continuous improvement and employee development

If you’re looking for more than “just a machine operator job” and want a place where you can actually build a career, apply today.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Fridley, MN.

The pay range for this position is $23.00 - $28.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Fridley,MN.

This position is anticipated to close on Apr 27, 2026.

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies’ construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.