Shop Flex Operator

The Shop Flex Operator is a versatile manufacturing professional responsible for supporting multiple areas of shop production based on operational needs. This position serves as the primary Press Brake Operator and provides backup support for CNC operations. The role also operates saws, lathes, routers, sandblasting equipment, and other shop machinery as assigned.

The ideal candidate is an experienced press brake operator with strong mechanical aptitude, precision measurement skills, and the flexibility to safely transition between different machines and production assignments.

• →Serve as the shop’s primary Press Brake Operator.
• →Set up and operate press brakes to bend, form, and fabricate metal components according to specifications.
• →Read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, work orders, and bend instructions.
• →Select and install appropriate tooling and determine required machine settings.
• →Inspect completed parts for dimensional accuracy, angles, and overall quality.
• →Make machine adjustments and troubleshoot issues as needed.
• →Perform routine operator-level inspections and basic preventive maintenance.

• →Serve as a backup CNC Operator based on production and staffing needs.
• →Set up and operate CNC equipment according to work instructions and production specifications.
• →Load materials, select appropriate tooling, and monitor machine operation.
• →Inspect finished parts using precision measuring instruments.
• →Identify machine or quality issues and make permitted adjustments or escalate concerns as appropriate.

• Set up and safely operate saws, lathes, routers, sandblasting equipment, and other shop machinery as trained and instructed.
• Cut, shape, machine, clean, and prepare metal components according to work orders and specifications.
• Support fabrication, material preparation, equipment assembly, and other production areas as needed.
• Adapt to changing production priorities and move between shop assignments based on business needs.
• Safely operate forklifts, overhead cranes, and other material-handling equipment when trained and authorized.
• Assist with cross-training team members and developing broader shop capabilities.

• Read and follow blueprints, work instructions, production schedules, and quality requirements.
• Verify completed work using tape measures, calipers, micrometers, squares, gauges, and other measuring tools.
• Identify and report material, equipment, safety, or quality concerns promptly.
• Maintain an organized, clean, and safe work area.
• Follow all company safety procedures and wear required personal protective equipment.
• Complete work accurately and efficiently while meeting production and quality expectations.

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum of two years of experience in manufacturing, machining, metal fabrication, or a related industrial environment.
• Demonstrated experience setting up and operating press brake equipment.
• Ability to independently produce accurate press brake work from blueprints and technical drawings.
• Experience operating CNC machinery or the demonstrated ability to provide backup CNC support.
• Experience with or the ability to operate saws, lathes, routers, and other shop equipment.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, work instructions, and technical drawings.
• Strong measurement skills, including the ability to read a tape measure to 1/32-inch accuracy and use calipers, micrometers, and other precision measuring tools.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and basic troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to safely use hand tools, power tools, and manufacturing equipment.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team with minimal supervision.
• Willingness and ability to cross-train, learn additional equipment, and adapt to changing production needs.

• Technical school or vocational training in machining, manufacturing, or metal fabrication.
• Experience working with stainless steel and custom-fabricated components.
• Experience assembling custom industrial equipment.
• Experience operating multiple types of shop machinery.
• Forklift and overhead crane experience or certification.

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to bend, reach, stoop, and perform repetitive movements.
• Ability to lift and move materials weighing up to 40 pounds.
• Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination necessary for precision work.
• Ability to safely work around moving machinery, metal materials, noise, and varying temperatures.

This position is based in a manufacturing shop environment and regularly works around machinery, metal materials, noise, and changing production demands. Employees must follow all safety requirements and wear required PPE, including safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and steel-toe footwear.

Employment with Cantrell-Gainco is contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment background check and drug screening. All candidates hired must provide proper documentation establishing their identity and authorization to work in the United States as required by Form I-9. Cantrell-Gainco is an Equal Opportunity Employer – Minorities / Females / Disabled / Veterans (M/F/D/V).