At a Glance
- Tasks: Create and optimise press brake programs while setting and operating machinery.
- Company: Established manufacturing business in Bedford with a focus on growth.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 20 days holiday, and support for skill development.
- Why this job: Take ownership of the production process and make a tangible impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in offline Press Brake Programming and machine operation required.
- Other info: Immediate starts available for motivated candidates ready to learn.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 42000 £ per year.
A well-established and growing manufacturing business in the Bedford area is seeking an experienced Press Brake Programmer / Setter Operator. This is a key role combining offline programming with hands-on setting and operating of press brake machinery.
The Role
You will be responsible for creating accurate offline programs and ensuring high-quality production output on the shop floor. This is a varied role offering ownership of the full process—from programming through to setting and operating.
Key Responsibilities:
- Produce and optimise offline press brake programs (CADMAN preferred).
- Set and operate press brake machinery to manufacture sheet metal components.
- Interpret engineering drawings and create efficient bend sequences.
- Work with a range of materials including mild steel, stainless steel, aluminium, zintec, and galvanised steel (typically 1.0mm–6.0mm).
- Carry out first-off checks and ensure compliance with quality standards.
- Provide feedback to improve programs, tooling selection, and processes.
- Support continuous improvement across programming and production.
Software Experience
The company predominantly uses LVD CADMAN, but candidates with experience using other offline programming systems are strongly encouraged to apply, including:
- Radan / Radbend
- Bystronic BySoft / BySoft Bend
- Trumpf TruBend / TecZone Bend
- Amada Dr.ABE Bend
- AutoPOL
- SolidWorks (Sheet Metal)
If you have experience with any equivalent offline bending software and are happy to train on CADMAN, full support will be provided.
About You
To succeed in this role, you should have:
- Proven experience in offline Press Brake Programming.
- Solid experience setting and operating press brake machines.
- Strong understanding of sheet metal fabrication processes.
- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings confidently.
- Knowledge of bend allowances, tooling, material springback, and setup optimisation.
- A proactive approach and willingness to learn new systems.
Benefits:
- Competitive salary (£35,000–£39,500).
- 20 Days Holiday
- 8 Bank holidays
- Support for cross-skilled programmers to CADMAN.
- 8:30am - 5:00pm - Monday - Friday
- Immediate starts available for candidates with the right skills and attitudes, so if you're interested, please apply immediately to be considered.
Press Brake Technician in Bedford employer: The Hire Place LLP
Contact Detail:
The Hire Place LLP Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Press Brake Technician in Bedford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts, join relevant groups on social media, and attend local events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you’ve got experience with CADMAN or any other programming software, consider creating a portfolio of your work. This can really help you stand out during interviews and showcase what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for hands-on assessments! Since this role involves setting and operating machinery, be ready to demonstrate your skills. Brush up on your technical knowledge and practice interpreting engineering drawings to impress your potential employer.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it super easy for you to submit your application directly. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team. Don’t miss out on the chance to land that Press Brake Technician role!
We think you need these skills to ace Press Brake Technician in Bedford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience with press brake programming and operating. Use keywords from the job description to show we’re on the same page about what you bring to the table.
Show Off Your Skills: In your cover letter, don’t just list your skills—give us examples! Talk about specific projects where you’ve created offline programs or set up machinery. We love a good story!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your experience and qualifications shine through without any fluff.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Hire Place LLP
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your offline programming skills, especially with CADMAN if you have experience. Familiarise yourself with the specific press brake machinery and materials mentioned in the job description, so you can confidently discuss your hands-on experience during the interview.
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Be prepared to share examples of how you've optimised programs or improved production processes in the past. Think about specific challenges you've faced and how you tackled them, as this will demonstrate your proactive approach and ability to contribute to continuous improvement.
✨Read Between the Lines
Before the interview, take some time to interpret engineering drawings and think about how you would create efficient bend sequences. This will not only help you answer technical questions but also show that you're genuinely interested in the role and understand the key responsibilities.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare a few insightful questions to ask at the end of the interview. This could be about the company's approach to training on CADMAN or how they support cross-skilled programmers. It shows that you're engaged and eager to learn more about the company culture and expectations.