Metal Smith Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of craftsmanship, the role of metal smiths has never been more critical.

As industries evolve, the demand for skilled craftsmen who can create, repair, and preserve our physical infrastructure becomes increasingly urgent.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a metal smith?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker looking to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the art of metal smithing,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we introduce a customizable metal smith job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s get started.

Metal Smith Duties and Responsibilities

Metal Smiths perform a range of tasks related to shaping, fitting, assembling, and repairing various metal parts and products.

They require a high level of precision and technical skill to accomplish their tasks.

Their daily duties and responsibilities include:

• Analyzing blueprints, sketches, or specifications to determine the appropriate methods and sequence of operations needed for a project
• Cutting, shaping, and forming metal parts, using tools such as lathes, saws, grinders, and shears
• Assembling and welding metal components to create functional or decorative items
• Heat-treating metal parts to enhance their properties, such as strength or resistance to corrosion
• Inspecting finished products to ensure they meet quality standards and specifications
• Repairing or refabricating broken or worn-out metal parts
• Applying protective or decorative finishes to metal products, such as painting or plating
• Maintaining a clean and safe work environment by adhering to safety protocols and guidelines
• Ordering materials and supplies needed for projects

 

Metal Smith Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are searching for a skilled Metal Smith to join our team.

Your primary responsibilities will include shaping and combining metal to create various items.

This role requires a high degree of precision and an intricate understanding of metal properties.

As a Metal Smith, you should possess exceptional hand-eye coordination, physical strength, and a keen eye for detail.

Ultimately, a top-class Metal Smith can design and manufacture functional, long-lasting pieces out of metal.

 

Responsibilities

• Designing and creating objects out of metal
• Repairing or restoring damaged metal pieces
• Heating metal in forges or furnaces, and hammering, bending, and cutting it into shape
• Using hand and power tools to finish the workpiece
• Polishing and buffing the finished product
• Maintaining a safe and clean workspace
• Interpreting blueprints or following verbal instructions
• Ensuring quality control and identifying any faults or defects

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Metal Smith or similar role in the industry
• Knowledge of various metals and their properties
• Experience with hand and power tools
• Ability to lift heavy objects and perform physically demanding tasks
• Exceptional hand-eye coordination and attention to detail
• Ability to interpret blueprints and follow safety procedures
• High school diploma or equivalent; vocational training or apprenticeship is a plus

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Metal Smith
• Work Environment: Workshop setting with potential exposure to loud noises, heat, and sharp objects. Safety equipment is provided and its use is mandatory.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Production Manager or Foreman.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $30,000 minimum to $50,000 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 and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Metal Smith Do?

A Metal Smith, also known as a blacksmith, is a skilled craftsperson who works with different types of metals to create parts, objects, tools, and decorative pieces.

They design, shape, join, and polish metal by heating it in a fire or forge and molding it into the desired shape using hand tools and machines such as hammers and anvils.

Some Metal Smiths specialize in a specific area such as making architectural metalwork like railings and gates, or creating decorative pieces like jewelry and sculptures.

They also repair items made from iron, steel, copper, and brass.

This involves replacing parts, fixing imperfections, and ensuring the integrity of the metal.

Depending on their specialization, Metal Smiths may also use techniques like welding and soldering to join pieces of metal together, and they may apply finishes to the metal to prevent rust and corrosion.

In addition to the physical tasks, a Metal Smith may also be involved in the design process, creating blueprints or sketches of the products they are making.

They might collaborate with other professionals such as architects and designers to bring their designs to life.

Safety is a key aspect of the Metal Smith’s job, as they work with potentially dangerous equipment and materials.

They must therefore strictly adhere to safety protocols and use protective gear to reduce the risk of accidents.

 

Metal Smith Qualifications and Skills

A proficient metal smith should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Technical knowledge and skills in handling different types of metals and their properties to create durable and quality metal products.
• Detail-oriented to ensure precision in the cutting, shaping, and alignment of metal pieces to meet design specifications.
• Physical strength and stamina to handle heavy metal materials and work for long periods, often in high-temperature environments.
• Problem-solving skills to identify and rectify issues during the crafting process, ensuring the end product meets the set standards and customer requirements.
• Interpersonal skills to establish and maintain effective working relationships with colleagues, suppliers, and customers.
• Communication skills to clearly understand client requirements, as well as explain the process, cost, and timeline for completion of work.
• Proficiency in using hand tools and machinery related to metalworking, such as grinders, lathes, drill presses, etc.
• Knowledge of safety procedures and regulations to ensure a safe working environment.
• Artistic creativity to design and craft unique and aesthetically pleasing metal products based on client requests or market trends.

 

Metal Smith Experience Requirements

Candidates for the role of Metal Smith typically need to have attended a technical or vocational school where they focus on metalwork and blacksmithing.

Here, they would gain a significant amount of theoretical and practical experience in various metalworking techniques.

Some candidates may have gained experience through an apprenticeship under an experienced Metal Smith.

This hands-on experience, which often spans 1 to 2 years, is invaluable and provides the practical knowledge needed for the role.

Entry-level Metal Smiths may have 1 to 3 years of experience in the metalworking field, often through roles such as a Metal Worker, Welder, or Fabricator.

They would have developed basic skills such as metal shaping, welding, and finishing.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience will have likely developed their technical skills and understanding of metal properties.

They would be proficient in a range of metalworking processes and techniques.

Metal Smiths with more than 5 years of experience may have management or leadership experience.

These candidates would be capable of overseeing a team, managing a workshop, and taking on larger, more complex metalworking projects.

 

Metal Smith Education and Training Requirements

Becoming a Metal Smith typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, with courses in mathematics, physics, and technical drawing being beneficial.

Prospective Metal Smiths often complete an apprenticeship or vocational training program, which are usually offered by community colleges and trade schools.

These programs can last anywhere from one to five years and offer both classroom instruction and hands-on training.

Courses usually cover topics such as metallurgy, welding techniques, blueprint reading, safety procedures, and machine operation.

Completion of the program may lead to a certificate or associate’s degree in metalworking or a related field.

In addition to education, Metal Smiths need to have excellent hand-eye coordination, physical strength, and precision skills.

Certification is not always required but can be beneficial for career advancement.

Various organizations offer certifications in areas like welding, metal fabrication, and metalworking machinery operation.

Continued education and training are important in this field as technology and techniques continue to evolve.

Therefore, many Metal Smiths participate in workshops, seminars, and other forms of ongoing training to stay current.

 

Metal Smith Salary Expectations

A Metal Smith, on average, earns approximately $18.50 (USD) per hour.

The actual earnings can greatly differ based on factors like level of expertise, years of experience, the location of work, and the company that employs them.

 

Metal Smith Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Metal Smith need?

A Metal Smith should have strong manual dexterity and coordination to handle tools and shape metal efficiently.

A keen eye for detail helps in crafting intricate designs.

They need to have good knowledge of different metals and their properties.

Familiarity with safety procedures and usage of protective equipment is also necessary.

Creativity, problem-solving, and patience are key traits, as crafting metalworks can be a slow and meticulous process.

 

Do Metal Smiths need a degree?

A degree is not a strict requirement to become a Metal Smith.

However, many professionals in this field pursue an associate degree or certification in metalworking, blacksmithing, or a related field from a vocational school or community college.

Some Metal Smiths even pursue a bachelor’s degree in fine arts.

An apprenticeship under an experienced Metal Smith is also a common path to gaining hands-on experience in this field.

 

What should you look for in a Metal Smith resume?

When reviewing a Metal Smith’s resume, look for experience in metalworking or blacksmithing, indicating their hands-on experience with metalwork.

Certifications or degrees in related fields can be a big plus.

Also, look for knowledge of safety procedures, experience with different types of metals, and familiarity with various metalworking tools.

Inclusion of any apprenticeships or on-the-job training is also beneficial.

 

What qualities make a good Metal Smith?

A good Metal Smith is someone with a strong eye for detail and a high level of craftsmanship.

They should be able to translate complex designs into beautiful metal pieces.

Patience is crucial in this profession, as the metalworking process can be quite time-consuming.

Good problem-solving skills are also essential as unexpected issues can arise during the crafting process.

Lastly, adherence to safety procedures and respect for the tools and materials used are important qualities.

 

Is it difficult to hire Metal Smiths?

The difficulty in hiring Metal Smiths often depends on the specific needs of your project.

If you require a specialist with expertise in a certain type of metalworking, it might be more challenging to find the right candidate.

However, there are many skilled Metal Smiths in the market with diverse experiences and skills.

Offering competitive wages and providing a creative and safe working environment can attract high-quality applicants.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the fascinating world of what it means to be a metal smith.

Surprised?

It’s not just about hammering metal.

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

Equipped with our comprehensive metal smith job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But don’t stop here.

Forge ahead with our job description generator. It’s your go-to tool for creating precision-crafted listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every piece of metal is part of a larger masterpiece.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

How to Become a Metal Smith (Complete Guide)

The Allure of Adrenaline: Inside the Lives of High-Risk Professionals

The Professional Pinnacle: The Most Prestigious Jobs to Reach

Earn Like a King: 2025’s Guide to the Most Rewarding Jobs!

Get Paid More for Doing Less: Surprisingly Simple Jobs with Fat Paychecks!