Metalsmith Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of craftsmanship, the role of metalsmiths is increasingly crucial.

As innovation continues, the demand for skilled hands capable of molding, enhancing, and preserving our metallic creations increases.

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

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this profession,
• A hiring manager looking to outline the ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the artistry of metalsmithing,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable metalsmith job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s get straight into it.

Metalsmith Duties and Responsibilities

Metalsmiths are skilled in crafting items out of various metals.

They may work with precious metals to create jewelry or with other metals to create tools, architectural elements, or other products.

The duties and responsibilities of a Metalsmith include:

• Design and create metal pieces, using a variety of techniques like welding, forging, and casting
• Interpret and implement client designs or specifications into metalwork pieces
• Shape, heat, and hammer metal to produce parts for assembly
• Measure and mark metal material for cutting or shaping
• Use hand tools and machinery to shape and mold metal into desired forms
• Polish and finish metal pieces to enhance their aesthetic appeal
• Ensure safety standards are maintained in the workshop
• Inspect finished pieces for defects or deviation from specifications
• Repair or restore damaged or worn metal pieces
• Keep track of materials used and order supplies as necessary

 

Metalsmith Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled Metalsmith to join our team.

The Metalsmith will be responsible for designing, shaping, and creating metal works and structures.

This role involves working with a variety of metals, including brass, copper, steel, and aluminum, to create items such as jewelry, sculpture, tools, and decorative pieces.

The ideal candidate has a good understanding of the properties of different metals, is proficient in using various tools, and has a keen eye for detail.

Prior experience in the field is highly desirable.

 

Responsibilities

• Designing, shaping, and creating metal objects and structures
• Working with a variety of metals, including brass, copper, steel, and aluminum
• Using various tools such as hammers, anvils, and torches
• Inspecting and testing finished products to ensure quality and durability
• Maintaining a safe and clean workspace
• Repairing damaged metal objects
• Reading and interpreting blueprints and design plans

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Metalsmith or similar role
• Excellent understanding of the properties of different metals
• Proficiency in using various tools
• Strong attention to detail
• Good manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Ability to lift heavy objects

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Metalsmith
• Work Environment: Workshop setting. Some lifting and physical exertion required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Workshop Manager.
• 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 and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Metalsmith Do?

A Metalsmith is a professional who works with different types of metals to create a variety of items, from jewelry to utensils to architectural components.

They often start their work by drawing up designs for the items they plan to create, either by hand or using computer-aided design (CAD) software.

After the design phase, they select the appropriate metal materials such as gold, silver, copper, or steel, which are then cut, shaped, and joined using different hand and machine tools.

A significant part of a metalsmith’s job involves heating the metals in a forge or furnace, which makes them more malleable.

They then hammer, bend, and shape the hot metal into the desired forms.

Metalsmiths also perform finishing tasks, such as polishing, engraving, or applying patinas for aesthetic effects.

In addition, they may be required to repair or restore metal items, replacing parts, rejoining pieces, or refinishing surfaces as necessary.

Safety is a key aspect of a metalsmith’s role.

They must always follow safety procedures to prevent injuries from hot metals, sharp tools, and heavy machinery.

Finally, Metalsmiths might also interact with clients or customers, taking custom orders, discussing design options, or selling their finished products.

 

Metalsmith Qualifications and Skills

A competent metalsmith should possess a range of technical skills, artistic abilities, and soft skills to design, shape, and join metal pieces, including:

• Extensive knowledge and understanding of various metals and their properties to determine the most suitable metal for each project.
• Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination to work with tools and manipulate metal with precision.
• Artistic creativity and vision to design unique pieces and envision the final product from a raw piece of metal.
• Understanding and proficiency in using various tools and machinery such as hammers, anvils, tongs, and furnaces.
• Ability to apply various techniques such as casting, welding, forging, and soldering to alter the shape and appearance of metals.
• Strong problem-solving skills to identify and correct mistakes or defects in the metalwork.
• Physical stamina to stand for extended periods and perform labor-intensive tasks.
• Safety-oriented mindset to adhere to safety protocols and use protective equipment to prevent accidents and injuries.
• Communication skills to understand client specifications, discuss project progress, and address any concerns.

 

Metalsmith Experience Requirements

Those aspiring to become a Metalsmith generally undertake a formal apprenticeship, trade school, or vocational training program where they learn the craft of working with metals.

They gain a substantial amount of theoretical and practical experience during this phase.

Entry-level Metalsmiths may have 1 to 2 years of experience, generally accumulated through their training program or working as an intern or assistant to an experienced Metalsmith.

They may also gain experience in related roles such as metal fabricator or welder.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience in the field are typically well-versed in various metalworking techniques like forging, casting, and welding, and they have developed their skills through hands-on practice in various projects.

Metalsmiths with more than 5 years of experience may have advanced knowledge of metal properties, designing, and crafting complex metal pieces, and potentially leading a team of junior smiths.

They may also have experience in teaching metalwork techniques, managing a smithy, or running their own metalsmithing business.

Some specialized or high-end metalsmithing roles may require further experience or expertise in a certain area, such as blacksmithing, silversmithing, or working with a specific type of metal or technique.

 

Metalsmith Education and Training Requirements

Metalsmiths typically require a high school diploma or equivalent as a basic educational requirement.

They often gain their skills through vocational programs, community colleges, technical schools or apprenticeships that offer courses in metalworking and design.

These programs usually combine hands-on training with classroom instruction, where they learn about different types of metals, how to handle and shape them, safety measures, and use of tools and machinery.

While not mandatory, certification from organizations like the American Welding Society can increase job prospects.

Certification programs often require a certain amount of experience and passing a practical examination.

Many metalsmiths continue their education throughout their careers to stay updated with new techniques and technologies.

Advanced workshops and master classes in metalsmithing are also available for those who wish to specialize in a particular area, such as jewelry making, sculpture, or architectural metalsmithing.

Some positions, especially in industrial settings, may also require knowledge of CAD software for precision metalworking.

Therefore, additional training in computer-aided design and drafting could be beneficial.

Artistic ability, creativity, and a strong attention to detail are often important for success in this field.

 

Metalsmith Salary Expectations

A Metalsmith can expect to earn an average salary of $41,897 (USD) per year.

This salary can fluctuate based on the metalsmith’s level of experience, expertise, location, and the company for which they work.

 

Metalsmith Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Metalsmith need?

Metalsmiths need strong manual dexterity, attention to detail, and technical skills to manipulate metal into the desired shape.

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

Artistic creativity and vision are also important, as they often have to design their own pieces.

Knowledge of safety procedures is essential to prevent accidents in the workshop.

 

Do Metalsmiths need a degree?

While a degree isn’t strictly necessary for a Metalsmith, many professionals in this field earn a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts, specializing in Metalwork or Jewelry Design.

Alternatively, they might consider vocational training or apprenticeships in metalworking or blacksmithing.

Regardless of the path, it’s crucial that they have practical experience in metal manipulation techniques.

 

What should you look for in a Metalsmith resume?

A Metalsmith’s resume should demonstrate a solid understanding of metal properties and metalworking techniques.

Look for experience in specific types of metalworking, such as forging, casting, or soldering.

Experience with tools like hammers, anvils, and torches is also important.

A strong portfolio demonstrating their work can be a great indicator of their skills and creativity.

 

What qualities make a good Metalsmith?

A good Metalsmith should have excellent attention to detail to ensure the quality of their work.

They should be patient, as metalworking often involves repetitive tasks and can be time-consuming.

Creativity is also essential, as they often need to design and produce original pieces.

Physical stamina is necessary, as metalsmiths spend long hours standing and performing physically demanding tasks.

 

What are the daily duties of a Metalsmith?

Typically, a Metalsmith’s daily duties involve designing and creating metal objects or repairing existing ones.

They might sketch designs or use software to create digital models.

They’ll also spend time cutting, shaping, and joining metal pieces using various techniques and tools.

Maintaining a clean and safe work environment is also a crucial part of their responsibilities.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve delved deep into the intricate world of a metalsmith.

Surprised?

It’s not all about hammering and molding metal.

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

Equipped with our detailed metalsmith job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to strike while the iron is hot.

But why just stop there?

Immerse yourself further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to crafting impeccable job listings or honing your resume to flawlessness.

Bear in mind:

Each piece of metal contributes to the grand design.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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