Description
Set up, operate, and tend power shears to cut sheet and plate metal and plastic to specified dimensions, maintaining cut quality, accuracy, and safe, efficient production.
- • Read work orders or production schedules to determine materials, cut sizes, tolerances, and sequence.
- • Select and load sheets, plates, or blanks onto shear tables using hoists, cranes, or by hand.
- • Position, square, and secure workpieces using backgauges, squaring arms, hold-downs, and stops.
- • Set blade clearance, rake angle, stroke, backgauge, and hold-down pressure per material and specs.
- • Install, align, and secure shear blades, guards, and safety devices; verify blade condition.
- • Set and adjust cutting stroke rate and operating modes per material requirements.
- • Start and monitor shearing operations; record counts, dimensions, and machine data.
- • Measure parts with calipers, tapes, squares, and gauges to verify tolerances.
- • Inspect edges and surfaces for burrs, twist, bow, or marred finishes; segregate nonconforming parts.
- • Scribe or mark cut lines and part identification per blueprints or templates.
- • Deburr and finish edges using grinders, files, or sanders.
- • Plan cut layouts and sequences to minimize waste and optimize yield.
- • Adjust backgauge positions and stops for repeat cuts and multiple passes.
- • Replace or index dull or chipped blades; assist with sharpening and alignment.
- • Clean, lubricate, and perform routine shear maintenance; check oil levels and hydraulics.
- • Clear scrap and manage drop pieces using scrap chutes, bins, or conveyors.
- • Move materials and finished parts by forklift, pallet jack, or overhead crane.
- • Maintain a clean, safe work area and follow lockout/tagout and machine guarding procedures.
- • Troubleshoot cut quality issues and make adjustments or escalate to maintenance.
- • Set up and use front/rear supports and sheet lifters for large or heavy plates.
- • Enter production data and quality records into logs or ERP systems.
- • Apply protective films or lubricants when specified.
- • Replace worn hold-downs, springs, bushings, or other components as directed.
- • Coordinate with downstream operations and stage work for press brakes or fabrication.
- • Calibrate and verify backgauge and squaring arm accuracy using gauges and test cuts.
- • Verify material type, thickness, and hardness before cutting; adjust setup accordingly.
- • Perform first-article inspections and obtain approval before running production.
- • Operate via foot pedal or control panel, ensuring proper two-hand control or barriers are in place.
- • Tag and isolate nonconforming material and report to supervision or quality.
- • Stack, package, and band finished parts with correct labels and documentation.
Related specializations
Interview options
Interview options
Interviewee gender
Interviewee accent
Interview time
Related Pathways
Advanced Manufacturing
View
Source
Tasks & skills:
O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
Learn more
Sources & Standards:
This site includes information from O*NET by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. Career Clutch has modified some of this information for student readability. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Last reviewed: Jan 2026
