Punch Press Operator

Answer 1

A punch press is used for cutting a hole in material, it can be small and manually operated or a large automated machine. A punch press can be used with different materials from cork and leather to steel and cut into a multitude of shapes.

Answer 2

A punch press operator oversees large power press machines that shape, trim, punch, notch, or crimp metal or thick plastic stock between specified dies in order to produce parts for commercial products. Punch press operators are vital to manufacturing industries like the auto industry. Punch press operators are also useful on assembly lines where multiple power presses are used to imprint identifying information or product codes on product parts.

To be a punch press operator, you should be able to complete the following tasks successfully:

-Lift a piece of metal or plastic you’re working on up to the machine by hand or with mechanical assistance

-Place the piece of metal or plastic firmly against fixtures on the die or on the machine itself

-Start the punch press by using hand or foot controls

-Analyze machine to make sure it is operating correctly

Because of the nature of the work, punch press operators tend to work by themselves under supervision. An ability to work on your own for a length of time without constant correction and instruction is very important, as your supervision will not always be around to instruct you. The work you do may require a little heavy lifting, and certainly you should be able to work in industrial conditions -- well lit and clean but probably working around chemicals, industrial lubricants, etc. Operating a punch press is repetitive work, but an attention to detail and strong analytical skills are a requirement for this kind of work.

Depending on what part of the country you work in, you can begin your career earning between $29,000 and $40,000 a year as a punch press operator, with average starting salaries hovering around $34,000. Since operating a punch press usually takes place in a manufacturing center, job benefits are great. If your employer is set up for it, you can even join a worker’s union and earn more benefits beyond the usual health care package.

There are not too many strict requirements for working as a punch press operator, though most employers would prefer you have a high school diploma or equivalent program. Taking vocational classes in sheet metal or other industrial functions could help you get a job as a punch press operator in a competitive market.