Punch Press Machinist II – Setup, Operation, Toolmaking

CARSON, CA
Full Time
Punch Press
Experienced
Punch Press Machinist II – Setup, Operation, Toolmaking
Location: Carson, CA
Department: Punch Press Operations
Reports To: Production Supervisor / Manufacturing Director
Employment Type: Full-Time, Hourly | Salary D.O.E.: $30-45/hr
Shift: 1st Shift (5am Start) or 2nd shift (2:15pm Start)
About Us:
A&R Engineering Co., Inc. is a precision manufacturer serving the Aerospace and Defense industry, producing mission-critical components through advanced CNC machining, Punch Press, and Assembly operations. Our team is committed to quality, safety, and continuous improvement in a fast-paced, compliance-driven environment.
Position Summary:
A Punch Press Machinist/Toolmaker must have ample experience and strong skills in progressive die & press setup, fixturing, and toolmaking(Surface Grinding, Manual Mill, CAD, EDM) to help meet the objectives of our metal stamping department. In addition to assisting with continuous improvement projects, this role is responsible for completing the daily tasks that ensure the punch press production schedule is met, which may also include documenting and properly moving jobs and materials, setting up / maintaining mechanical punch presses (10–75 ton Bliss, Komatsu, & Southbend) to run sheet metals of aluminum, stainless steel, and copper, and supporting in the development and success of your team members. The ideal candidate will have deep experience with progressive dies, surface grinders, inspection equipment and conventional mill/lathes to keep production moving seamlessly.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Setup and Operation:
    • Prepare and install dies for punch press production (single-hit and progressive dies with feeder coils.)
    • Set feeds, speeds, and clearances appropriate for aluminum, stainless, and copper.
    • Inspect and Validate first-article parts to blueprint and work instruction specs.
  • Tooling Maintenance & Repairs:
    • Perform preventive maintenance/inspections on dies and press tooling. Manage tooling levels and request supplies as necessary.
    • Sharpen, lap, or recondition punches, forms, and dies using surface grinders or other manual equipment.
    • Design, fabricate and install replacement inserts and blocks for worn die components
    • Diagnose wear, galling, and dimensional failures; suggest or implement corrective actions.
  • Training and Continuous Improvement:
    • Train/Support operators, submit records of completed training and ensure the team is following protocols for safety and correct machine operation
    • Provide input and assistance on departmental improvement projects for the addition of new equipment and processes
  • Documentation & Compliance:
    • Complete setup/run sheets and maintenance logs per AS9100 procedures.
    • Account for scrap, rework, and Support root cause analysis for part or tooling defects.
    • Follow all 6S practices (Sort, Set In Order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain, and Safety) to contribute to a clean, organized work area.
    • Troubleshoot production problems for team members in need of help per the direction of leadership
Qualifications:
  • Required:
    • 6+ years of punch press setup experience in aerospace, defense, or similar high-tolerance industry.
    • Strong knowledge of die maintenance, surface grinding, and blueprint reading (including GD&T).
    • Experience with aluminum, stainless steel, and copper in sheet form.
    • Familiarity with AS9100/ISO9001-compliant work environments.
  • Preferred:
    • Hands-on experience with Bliss, Southbend, Komatsu or similar mechanical presses.
    • Machining knowledge (EDM, manual mill/lathe, A2/D2 Tooling Heat Treat) for making die components.
    • Forklift operation or overhead crane use for tool handling.
Compensation & Benefits:
  • Competitive hourly wage
  • Available Overtime
  • Medical, Dental, Vision insurance
  • 401(k) with employer match
  • Paid vacation, holidays, and sick time
  • Opportunities for advancement within a growing aerospace team
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