Also called: CNC Press Brake Operator, Metal Bender, Brake Press Operator
Bends flat sheet metal into precise shapes for electrical boxes, truck bodies and machine parts using a CNC press brake.
You read a drawing, pick the right top and bottom tools, and program a sequence of bends. Then you feed sheets in, step on the pedal, and check each angle with a protractor. Getting a complicated part right on the first try is a real skill.
Estimated from BLS cutting, punching and press machine setters.
Approximate: anchored on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for a broader job group.
High school diploma, about 0 years after high school. High school diploma; trained on the job.
Ways in: On-the-job training, Trade school. Training cost: Get paid while you train.
Majors to look at: Metal Fabrication (trade school).
Shrinking (about -3% over 10 years). Cutting, punching and press machine setters overall.
Medium risk in 5 years, high in 10. Robotic and automatic bending cells handle repeat parts; high-mix shops still need skilled operators for now.
Age 18+. One way to start: Apply at sheet metal fabrication shops or through a staffing agency; new hires are trained on the job
Classes: Shop class, Geometry, Blueprint reading.
Official data: O*NET occupation 51-4031.
Career Universe is an early version. Pay, training and AI-risk figures are estimates to start your own research, not verified facts. The research was written with AI research assistants, checked by validation scripts and spot-checked by hand. Check anything important with schools, employers and official sources. How the numbers work.