Position Summary:
The CNC Tube Bender Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently operating CNC tube bending equipment to fabricate high-quality tube and pipe components for production and fabrication. This position plays a critical role in supporting daily production schedules while ensuring all bent components meet engineering specifications, quality standards, and delivery requirements.
Key Responsibilities:
- Operate CNC tube bending equipment to bend, form, and fabricate tubing according to engineering drawings, work orders, and productions requirements.
- Load programs, set up tooling including bend dies, clamps, pressure dies, and mandrels as required for production runs.
- Cut, load, align, and prepare raw tubing material prior to bending operations.
- Review and interpret shop drawings, cut lists, and nesting files to ensure accurate part geometry and tolerances.
- Perform machine set-up and calibration checks as required.
- Monitor machine performance and adjust to ensure proper bend angles, dimensions, and overall product quality
- Inspect finished parts using calipers, micrometers, angle gauges, templates, and other measuring equipment to verify compliance with specifications.
- Identify and troubleshoot issues such as wrinkling, wall thinning, spring-back, or dimensional deviations.
- Use Tekla EPM to access work packages, scan material, and track job progress.
- Communicate effectively with supervisors, engineering, and fabrication teams to resolve production challenges and improve workflow efficiency.
- Ensure parts are labeled, organized, and staged in the correct fabrication zone after cutting.
- Maintain a clean and safe work area, following all Harbor Fab safety protocols and PPE requirements.
- Communicate with supervisors, inventory, and fabrication teams to identify issues and optimize material flow.
Qualifications:
- High school diploma or GED required.
- Minimum 1–2 years of experience operating a CNC tube bender in a fabrication or manufacturing environment preferred.
- Familiarity with steel fabrication.
- Ability to read and interpret fabrication drawings, cut lists, and nesting files.
- Overhead crane and forklift operation experience strongly preferred.
- Basic computer literacy and comfort navigating ERP/shop software systems.
- Understanding of burn quality, torch maintenance, and common troubleshooting.
- Strong commitment to safety, quality, and production efficiency.
Core Competencies:
- Safety Focus – Operates equipment with precision and care.
- Technical Skill – Competent in CNC operation, nesting, and basic maintenance.
- Attention to Detail – Ensures parts meet quality tolerances and specifications.
- Teamwork – Works effectively with fabrication, shipping, and inventory teams.
- Dependability – Consistent attendance and ability to meet production goals.
Work Environment:
- Fabrication shop setting with overhead cranes, forklifts, heavy plate, and machinery.
- Frequent standing, walking, bending, and lifting up to 50 lbs.
- PPE required (safety glasses, gloves, steel-toe boots, hearing protection).
- Exposure to heat, sparks, and noise is typical of a steel fabrication environment.
The job functions may be altered from time to time. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified.
Skills Required
- High school diploma or GED
- 1-2 years operating a CNC tube bender in fabrication or manufacturing
- Familiarity with steel fabrication
- Ability to read and interpret fabrication drawings, cut lists, and nesting files
- Overhead crane and forklift operation experience
- Basic computer literacy and comfort navigating ERP/shop software systems
- Understanding of burn quality, torch maintenance, and common troubleshooting
- Strong commitment to safety, quality, and production efficiency
What We Do
Harbor Fab, part of Junction Industries, LLC, is a veteran-owned custom steel fabrication company specializing in structural steel, custom equipment, and heavy plate work. Serving commercial and industrial markets across North America since 1972, they operate facilities in Arkansas and Texas. Their mission is to glorify God by serving employees and customers in a manner that connects them with their greater purpose through unique excellence and integrity.
