Career roadmap
How to Become a Press Operator
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a press operator, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a press operator: (1) finish high school, (2) get hired, (3) learn presses, (4) learn setups, (5) advance. Most people need about A few months on the job. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a press operator
Finish high school
Or GED.
Get hired
Operator.
Learn presses
Training.
Learn setups
Skills.
Advance
Setup tech.
Education and training requirements
A high school diploma and moderate on-the-job training are typical.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | High school diploma or equivalent |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | Moderate-term on-the-job training |
| Typical training time | A few months on the job |
Certifications and licenses
- NIMS certification: Metalforming.
- Press brake training: Employer.
- OSHA 10: Safety.
- Forklift certification: Helpful.
Skills to build now
Start with press setup, die installation, and press brake bending, and practice attention to detail and safety focus. Learning the press operator vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Operator: Entry.
- Setup Technician: Setups.
- Die Maintenance: Tooling.
- Supervisor: Lead.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Press Operator training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Do I need a degree?
No.
How long does it take to become a press operator?
Most people need about A few months on the job of training. A high school diploma and moderate on-the-job training are typical.
Do you need a degree to be a press operator?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus moderate-term on-the-job training.
What certifications are available for press operators?
Common credentials include NIMS certification, Press brake training, OSHA 10, and Forklift certification. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 51-4031 (Cutting, punching, and press machine setters, operators, and tenders, metal and plastic).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Cutting, punching, and press machine setters, operators, and tenders, metal and plastic (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.