Job Information
Aerotek Punch Press / Weld Operator in Lexington, South Carolina
Job Title: Punch Press / Weld Operator
Job Description
The Punch Press / Weld Operator sets up and operates punch press and spot welding equipment to produce high-quality metal stampings, sub-assemblies, and finished assemblies. This role involves manual loading of parts, precise machine operation, routine quality checks, and accurate documentation to support an efficient and safe production process.
Responsibilities
Operate punch press equipment that is mechanically driven, manually loading unformed or partially formed parts into the press.
Position material accurately against guide pins to ensure consistent and precise pressing operations.
Operate spot welding machines to join or bond metal components and fabricate metal products and assemblies.
Monitor machine operation throughout production runs and promptly report any faults or irregularities to the supervisor.
Measure and examine sample parts before and during production runs to verify that products meet specifications.
Follow weld setup instructions and monitor work for accuracy, including performing destructive tests when required.
Read and interpret work orders and bills of material to determine job requirements, materials, and production steps.
Complete quality inspection check sheets and accurately document daily production activities.
Maintain the cleanliness and organization of machinery, tools, and the work area.
Work closely with team members to support smooth production flow and meet production goals.
Use measuring tools, such as tape measures, and apply basic math skills to verify dimensions and tolerances.
Follow all safety procedures and guidelines while operating machines and handling materials.
Essential Skills
Experience operating punch press or spot welding machines in a production or manufacturing environment (experience preferred).
Ability to read and understand work orders and bills of material.
Proficiency using a tape measure and applying basic math skills to verify measurements and part specifications.
Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain constant concentration during repetitive tasks.
Effective written and verbal communication skills to follow instructions and complete documentation.
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds consistently throughout the shift.
Ability to work well with others and contribute positively to a team environment.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
High school diploma or GED is preferred.
Experience in spot welding or punch press operation in the manufacturing industry.
general machine operation, including press machines and press brake equipment.
Familiarity with welding processes, including tack welding.
Experience with production work, robotics, or laser equipment is beneficial.
Forklift experience or exposure to material handling in a manufacturing setting.
Demonstrated reliability, punctuality, and strong work ethic in a production environment.
Why Work Here?
You join a production team that values precision, safety, and teamwork, offering a stable schedule and a clear set of responsibilities. The environment supports learning and skill development with exposure to a variety of metal fabrication processes, including punch press, welding, and related equipment. You have the opportunity to build and strengthen practical manufacturing skills while contributing directly to the quality of finished products.
Work Environment
This is a hands-on manufacturing role in a production facility operating on a Monday through Thursday schedule from 6:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The position requires standing for extended periods, consistently lifting up to 50 pounds, and working around punch presses, spot welders, and other fabrication equipment such as press brakes, robots, and laser machinery. The job demands constant concentration and attention to detail to ensure safe operation and high-quality output. You work as part of a collaborative team in an industrial setting where maintaining clean, organized machinery and work areas is essential, and appropriate work attire suitable for a manufacturing environment is expected.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Lexington, SC.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $16.00 - $18.00/hr.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Lexington,SC.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Apr 30, 2026.
About Aerotek:
We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies’ construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.
Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.
The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.