At a Glance
- Tasks: Create and optimise press brake programs while operating machinery to produce high-quality components.
- Company: A growing manufacturing business in Bedford with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 20 days holiday plus bank holidays, and support for skill development.
- Other info: Immediate starts available for motivated candidates ready to learn.
- Why this job: Take ownership of the full process and make a real impact in manufacturing.
- Qualifications: Experience in offline Press Brake Programming and strong understanding of sheet metal fabrication.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 39000 € 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 employer: The Hire Place LLP
Join a well-established and growing manufacturing business in Bedford, where your skills as a Press Brake Technician will be valued and nurtured. With a competitive salary and a supportive work culture that encourages continuous improvement and cross-skilling, you'll have the opportunity to take ownership of your role while working with a variety of materials and advanced programming systems. Enjoy a balanced work-life with a Monday to Friday schedule and generous holiday allowances, making this an excellent place for meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Press Brake Technician
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the manufacturing industry, especially those who know about press brake roles. A friendly chat can lead to insider info on job openings that might not even be advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you’ve got experience with CADMAN or any other offline programming systems, don’t just mention it—demonstrate it. Bring examples of your work or even offer to do a quick demo during interviews to really impress.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the hands-on part! Since this role involves setting and operating machinery, brush up on your practical skills. Be ready to discuss how you approach setting up press brakes and optimising production processes.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing applications directly from candidates who are keen on joining us. It shows initiative and gives you a better chance of standing out in the crowd.
We think you need these skills to ace Press Brake Technician
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’re considered for the role quickly. Don’t miss out!
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 they use and be ready to discuss your past projects and how you optimised production.
✨Read the Engineering Drawings
Before the interview, practice interpreting engineering drawings. Be prepared to explain how you would create efficient bend sequences and what factors you consider when setting up for different materials.
✨Show Your Problem-Solving Skills
Think of examples where you've improved processes or solved issues on the shop floor. This could be about tooling selection or quality checks. Companies love candidates who can demonstrate a proactive approach to continuous improvement.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about their production processes or the software they use. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand how you can contribute to their team.
