Artistic Metalworker Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of craftsmanship, the focus on artistic metalworkers is ever more compelling.

Art evolves ceaselessly, and with each new trend, the demand for skilled hands who can shape, enhance, and protect our metallic masterpieces escalates.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s really expected from an artistic metalworker?

Whether you are:

• An aspirant striving to grasp the core of this role,
• A recruiter outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the creative process of metalworking,

You’ve landed in the right spot.

Today, we present a versatile artistic metalworker job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s get straight into it.

Artistic Metalworker Duties and Responsibilities

Artistic Metalworkers are craftsmen who create designs from various types of metal.

They manipulate, cut, and join metal to create both functional and decorative items.

They may work on small-scale projects like jewelry or larger pieces such as sculptures or architectural features.

As an Artistic Metalworker, you can expect your daily duties and responsibilities to include:

• Consult with clients or designers to understand the desired product
• Create sketches and blueprints for metal items to be created
• Select and acquire materials for the project, taking into consideration the properties and limitations of different metals
• Measure, cut, shape and assemble metal components using a variety of tools and techniques such as welding, forging, casting, and soldering
• Apply finishes to the metalwork such as polishing, painting or applying patinas
• Inspect and test the final product to ensure it matches the original design and meets the client’s specifications
• Perform routine maintenance on equipment and tools to ensure they remain in good working order
• Follow safety guidelines and procedures to minimize risks and ensure a safe working environment
• Stay updated on industry trends, techniques, and materials

 

Artistic Metalworker Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a highly skilled Artistic Metalworker to join our team.

Your primary role will be to create unique and visually stunning pieces using various metals and tools.

Artistic Metalworker responsibilities include designing and creating art pieces, handling various tools and machinery, and ensuring the safety and cleanliness of the workshop.

Our ideal candidate has a keen eye for detail, excellent hand-eye coordination, and a passion for creating beautiful items from metal.

 

Responsibilities

• Design and create artistic pieces using various types of metal.
• Handle various tools and machinery used in metalwork.
• Follow safety procedures and maintain a clean and safe workspace.
• Collaborate with designers and other artists to realize artistic visions.
• Repair or restore damaged metal pieces or artworks.
• Perform routine maintenance on tools and equipment to ensure they remain in good working order.
• Attend art shows and exhibitions to showcase work and gain inspiration.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as an Artistic Metalworker or similar role.
• Proficiency in using various tools and machinery used in metalwork.
• Strong artistic abilities and a keen eye for detail.
• Excellent hand-eye coordination.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Knowledge of safety procedures and maintaining a clean workspace.
• Degree in Metal Arts, Sculpture, or a related field is preferred.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Artistic Metalworker
• Work Environment: Workshop setting. Physical work and usage of protective gear is required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Lead Artistic Metalworker or Art Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $75,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, portfolio, and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Artistic Metalworker Do?

Artistic Metalworkers, often referred to as metal artists or blacksmiths, are skilled tradespeople who use different techniques to shape and manipulate metal into various forms of art.

They use tools such as hammers, anvils, and welding equipment to heat, bend, and mold metal into the desired shapes.

They can create a wide range of items, such as sculptures, jewelry, furniture, and decorative pieces.

Artistic Metalworkers often work closely with clients to understand their vision and create custom designs.

This might involve sketching preliminary designs for approval, choosing the appropriate metal types, and determining the best techniques to achieve the desired effect.

They are also responsible for finishing their creations, which may involve polishing, painting, or applying patinas to enhance the appearance of the metal.

In addition to creating new pieces, some Artistic Metalworkers may also restore or repair existing metal artwork or historical pieces.

While many Artistic Metalworkers are self-employed, they may also work for metalwork studios, design firms, or museums.

Regardless of their work setting, they must prioritize safety due to the potentially hazardous nature of the materials and tools they work with.

 

Artistic Metalworker Qualifications and Skills

An artistic metalworker should possess a variety of skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Technical skills to work with a range of tools and equipment used for bending, cutting, and shaping metal.
• Artistic creativity and vision to design unique and aesthetically pleasing pieces.
• Attention to detail to ensure high-quality finish of metalwork and detect flaws or imperfections in the metal.
• Physical stamina and strength to work with heavy materials and equipment, and to stand or bend for extended periods.
• Good hand-eye coordination for the precise work required in metalworking.
• Problem-solving abilities to figure out the best ways to construct and repair metal pieces.
• Communication and customer service skills to understand client requests, discuss options, and ensure customer satisfaction.
• Understanding of safety procedures and ability to follow guidelines to protect themselves and others in the workspace.

 

Artistic Metalworker Experience Requirements

Artistic Metalworkers often start their journey with a vocational course or an associate’s degree in metalworking, metal fabrication or a related field.

This provides them with foundational knowledge and hands-on experience in basic metalworking processes.

Internships or apprenticeships under experienced metal artists, blacksmiths, or metal fabricators can provide invaluable practical experience.

This allows the aspiring artistic metalworkers to learn the intricacies of the craft, from the handling of equipment to the creation of intricate designs.

Candidates with 1 to 3 years of experience might have demonstrated their capability in working with various metals, using tools effectively, and creating art pieces with attention to detail.

They might have experience in entry-level positions such as Junior Metalworker or Metalworking Assistant.

Artistic Metalworkers with more than 3 years of experience often have a portfolio showcasing their unique work.

They might have honed their skills in roles such as Metal Artist, Blacksmith, or Craft Metalworker.

Artistic Metalworkers with more than 5 years of experience may have cultivated their own artistic style and possibly have experience in supervising or managing a team.

They may be ready to take up roles such as Lead Metal Artist or Artistic Metalwork Manager.

They might also have ventured into teaching the craft, contributing to the education of new artistic metalworkers.

 

Artistic Metalworker Education and Training Requirements

Artistic Metalworkers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with coursework focused on art, design, and metalwork.

Most training for this occupation happens on the job, but there are also many trade schools and community colleges that offer specific programs in artistic metalwork or blacksmithing.

These programs often cover various techniques in metalworking, including soldering, welding, casting, forging, and finishing.

They also teach students about materials and safety procedures.

While not required, an associate’s degree or certificate in metalworking, fine arts, or a related field can enhance an artistic metalworker’s skills and employment prospects.

Artistic Metalworkers should also have a strong background in design and a good eye for detail.

Knowledge of the properties of different metals and the effects of heat on these materials is crucial.

Continuing education is important for Artistic Metalworkers who want to stay current with new technologies and techniques.

This can be achieved through workshops, classes, or demonstrations.

Some Artistic Metalworkers may choose to gain certification in welding from organizations such as the American Welding Society, although this is not a requirement for all positions.

This certification can provide proof of skill level and may increase job prospects.

Artistic Metalworkers may also benefit from business skills, as many are self-employed and need to manage their own marketing and finances.

 

Artistic Metalworker Salary Expectations

An Artistic Metalworker can expect to earn an average salary of $40,040 (USD) per year.

The actual income may vary depending on factors such as the years of experience, location, and the type of employer.

 

Artistic Metalworker Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Artistic Metalworker need?

Artistic Metalworkers need a variety of skills including artistic creativity, manual dexterity, attention to detail, and physical stamina.

They should have a good understanding of different types of metals and their properties.

They should also be proficient in various techniques such as welding, soldering, cutting, and forging.

 

Do Artistic Metalworkers need a degree?

While a degree is not mandatory for an Artistic Metalworker, having a degree or diploma in a related field such as metalworking, blacksmithing or sculpture can be beneficial.

Many Artistic Metalworkers obtain their skills through apprenticeships or on-the-job training.

It’s important for artistic metalworkers to also have knowledge of safety regulations and procedures.

 

What should you look for in an Artistic Metalworker’s resume?

When reviewing an Artistic Metalworker’s resume, look for experience in metalworking, knowledge of various metalworking techniques, and proof of creativity through a portfolio of work.

Training or certifications in areas like welding or blacksmithing can be a plus.

Also, look for any experiences that show physical stamina and attention to detail.

 

What qualities make a good Artistic Metalworker?

A good Artistic Metalworker is creative, detail-oriented, and physically strong.

They should have the ability to visualize and create intricate designs from raw materials.

Good hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity are also essential.

Additionally, they should have the patience and persistence to see a project through to completion.

 

Is it difficult to hire Artistic Metalworkers?

As it is a niche field, hiring Artistic Metalworkers can be challenging.

It requires finding individuals with a unique blend of artistic ability, technical skills, and physical strength.

To attract the best candidates, it can be beneficial to offer competitive pay and opportunities for creative expression.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unraveled the intricacies of what it truly means to be an artistic metalworker.

But guess what?

It’s not just about bending metal.

It’s about shaping the aesthetic future, one piece of metal at a time.

With our go-to artistic metalworker job description template and real-world examples, you’re fully equipped to take your next step.

But why limit yourself?

Delve further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to intricately-crafted job listings or refining your portfolio to perfection.

Remember:

Every piece of metal is a part of a larger masterpiece.

Let’s sculpt that future. Together.

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