Process Engineering Technician

Sheet Metal Process Technician The Sheet Metal Process Technician is responsible for the setup, operation, programming, and teardown of sheet metal fabrication equipment, including an IPG fiber laser, press brake, PEM insertion machine, sander, and related machinery. This role will utilize Radan CAD/CAM software to program laser cutting operations and optimize material nesting layouts to maximize yield and minimize scrap. Prior experience with CAD/CAM or nesting software is a plus. The ideal candidate combines strong mechanical aptitude with a commitment to quality, safety, and efficiency.Key Responsibilities Equipment Setup & TeardownPerform complete setup and teardown of sheet metal fabrication equipment, including the IPG fiber laser, press brake, PEM insertion machine, belt sander, and ancillary toolsInstall, adjust, and verify tooling, fixtures, and work-holding devices to drawing specifications prior to production runsConduct pre-operation inspections and functional checks on all assigned equipment to ensure safe and proper working orderComplete accurate setup documentation, including run logs, material lot tracking, and tooling recordsExecute equipment changeovers efficiently to minimize downtime between production runsPerform post-run teardown, clean equipment and work areas, and return tooling to designated storage locationsIPG Fiber Laser Operation & ProgrammingProgram the IPG 1kW fiber laser using Radan CAD/CAM software, including part geometry import, tool path generation, and cut parameter selection on a 4'x4' capacity cutting bed.Develop and optimize nesting layouts to maximize material utilization and minimize scrap across a variety of sheet sizes and thicknessesSelect and validate cut parameters (power, speed, assist gas, focus position) for various materials including mild steel, stainless steel, and aluminumMonitor laser cutting operations, identify anomalies, and make real-time adjustments to maintain part qualityManage and maintain the Radan program library, including revision control and archiving of approved programsPress Brake OperationSet up and operate the press brake using appropriate tooling (punches and dies) for specified bend angles, radii, and material gaugesInterpret engineering drawings and bend sequences to produce accurate formed parts within tolerancePerform first-article inspections and in-process checks using calipers, angle gauges, and other measurement toolsAdjust back gauges, crowning, and tonnage settings as required for consistent resultsPEM Insertion Machine & Hardware InstallationSet up and operate the PEM insertion press to install threaded fasteners, studs, standoffs, nuts, and other hardware into sheet metal componentsSelect correct tooling heads and verify proper installation per engineering specifications and hardware manufacturer requirementsInspect installed hardware for proper seating, thread engagement, and pull-out strengthFinishing & Sanding OperationsOperate belt and/or disc sanders to deburr, blend welds, and finish sheet metal surfaces to specified surface finish requirementsUse hand deburring tools and files as needed to prepare parts for downstream operations or final inspectionQuality & Continuous ImprovementPerform first-article and in-process inspections using precision measurement tools; document results and disposition nonconforming partsIdentify and communicate opportunities to reduce scrap, improve nesting efficiency, or streamline setup proceduresParticipate in root cause analysis for recurring quality issues and implement corrective actionsSupport 5S, lean manufacturing, and continuous improvement initiatives within the factorySafety & ComplianceOperate all equipment in strict compliance with company safety policies, OSHA regulations, and machine-specific lockout/tagout (LOTO) proceduresUse required personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times, including safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and steel-toed footwearReport near-misses, unsafe conditions, and equipment deficiencies to supervision immediatelyWork Environment/Physical RequirementsFrequent standing, walking, and bendingLift and carry up to 50 lbs regularlyFine motor dexterity for tooling and setupsExtended periods of standing at machinesExposure to noise, metal dust, fumes, and laser lightQualificationsRequired3+ years of hands-on experience in sheet metal fabrication, including setup and operation of laser cutting, press brake, or related equipmentProficiency with Radan or equivalent CAD/CAM nesting/programming software is a plus.Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, and bill of materialsProficiency with precision measurement tools: calipers, micrometers, angle gauges, and height gaugesStrong understanding of material properties, gauges, and sheet metal fabrication processesSolid mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills for equipment and process issuesHigh school diploma or GEDPreferredDirect experience programming and operating IPG fiber laser systemsExperience with PEM insertion equipment and fastener hardware standardsFamiliarity with lean manufacturing principles, 5S, and continuous improvement methodologiesVocational training, apprenticeship, or associate degree in manufacturing technology or related fieldExperience working in an ISO-certified or otherwise quality-regulated manufacturing environmentExperience in sanitary weld is a plus