CNC Punch Press Setup & Fabrication Specialist

Job Title: CNC Punch Press Setup & Fabrication Specialist
Location: Newport News, VA
Employment Type: Full‑Time | Contract‑to‑Hire
Shift Availability: First and Third Shift (flexibility required based on production needs)
Compensation: Up to $40.00 per hour (based on directly relevant experience)

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced CNC Punch Press Setup & Fabrication Specialist to support precision sheet metal manufacturing operations. This role is responsible for independently preparing, programming, and operating CNC turret punch equipment to produce high‑accuracy components.

The ideal candidate brings a strong understanding of punch tooling, blueprint interpretation, material behavior, and in‑process inspection. This position plays a key role in maintaining production efficiency, part quality, and safe operation across changing production demands.

Primary Responsibilities:
• Prepare CNC turret punch machines for production, including loading programs, selecting tooling, and staging materials

• Set up, align, and verify punches, dies, and forming tools prior to production runs

• Evaluate punch patterns and make adjustments to improve accuracy, efficiency, and material utilization

• Monitor machine performance during operation and proactively identify issues such as tooling wear, misfeeds, or material inconsistencies

• Perform in‑process inspections using precision measuring tools to ensure conformance to drawings and tolerances

• Interpret blueprints, shop drawings, and technical documentation to guide accurate fabrication

• Maintain detailed production records and inspection documentation

• Coordinate with engineering, fabrication, and supervisory teams to meet daily production targets

• Organize workflow independently to sustain throughput, quality, and operational efficiency

• Follow all safety requirements while working in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment

Required Qualifications:
• Minimum 5 years of hands‑on CNC turret punch experience

• Strong ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings

• Working knowledge of sheet metal materials such as galvanized steel, aluminum, and stainless steel

• Proficiency using precision measuring tools, including calipers

• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude and problem‑solving capability

• Solid math skills, including geometry and trigonometry

• Ability to estimate production timelines and plan work accordingly

• Physical capability to lift up to 50 lbs. and perform prolonged standing, walking, bending, squatting, and twisting

• Ability to work in environments with temperature extremes (heat and cold)

• Willingness to work either first or third shift based on operational needs

Preferred (Not Required):
• Experience modifying or editing G‑code

• Exposure to CAM or CAD software

• Forklift operating experience

• Background in project coordination or production planning

Equipment Experience a Plus:
• CNC Turret Punch Presses with automatic tool changers and high‑capacity tool racks

• Punch/Laser combination machines used for complex sheet metal fabrication