CNC Fabrication Technician – Turret Punch Operations

CNC Fabrication Technician – Turret Punch Operations

Location: Newport News, VA
Employment Type: Full-Time | Contract-to-Hire
Shift Availability: 1st and 3rd Shift (schedule flexibility required based on production needs)
Compensation: Starting at $18.00/hour (pay based on experience and technical skill level)

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced CNC Fabrication Technician to support sheet metal manufacturing operations involving turret punch and punch/laser combination equipment. This position is responsible for machine setup, tooling configuration, program operation, and quality verification while maintaining production efficiency in a fast-paced fabrication environment.

The ideal candidate will have strong blueprint reading skills, knowledge of sheet metal materials, and experience troubleshooting CNC punching operations.

Essential Responsibilities

Set up and operate CNC turret punch equipment for sheet metal fabrication projects
Load machine programs and prepare raw materials for production runs
Install and align punches, dies, and forming tools according to production specifications
Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and work instructions to ensure dimensional accuracy
Optimize punch patterns and material layouts to improve efficiency and reduce material waste
Monitor machine performance and identify issues related to tooling wear, material feeding, or machine operation
Perform in-process quality inspections using precision measuring instruments such as calipers
Make machine or tooling adjustments as necessary to maintain product quality and workflow consistency
Maintain accurate production, setup, and inspection documentation
Coordinate with fabrication, engineering, and production teams to support scheduling and throughput goals
Organize workload and prioritize tasks to maintain steady production output

Required Qualifications

Minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience operating CNC turret punch equipment
Strong blueprint and technical drawing interpretation skills
Experience working with galvanized steel, aluminum, and stainless steel materials
Proficiency using precision measuring tools and inspection equipment
Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting capability
Solid understanding of shop math, including geometry and trigonometry
Ability to estimate production timelines and manage workload efficiently
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and perform physical tasks including standing, bending, and squatting for extended periods
Comfortable working in varying industrial temperature conditions

Preferred Qualifications

Experience editing G-code programs
Familiarity with CAD/CAM software platforms
Forklift operation experience
Exposure to project coordination or manufacturing support functions

Equipment Used

Amada EM3612ZRT 33-Ton Turret Punch Press with High-Capacity Tool Rack and Automatic Tool Changer
Amada EML 2515 Aje Turret Punch/Laser Combination System