Precious Metal Worker Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an age of opulence and artistry, the role of precious metal workers has never been more significant.

As the world of craftsmanship continues to evolve, the demand for skilled artisans who can mold, refine, and protect our precious metal creations grows.

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

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to comprehend the essence of this role,
• A hiring manager shaping the perfect candidate profile,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricate craft of precious metal working,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable precious metal worker job description template, crafted for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Precious Metal Worker Duties and Responsibilities

Precious Metal Workers use their expert knowledge of metals and craftsmanship to create, repair, and restore precious metal products such as jewelry, silverware, and other specialty items.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Design and fabricate jewelry pieces such as rings, bracelets, necklaces, and earrings from precious metals
• Repair and restore damaged or worn pieces of jewelry
• Cast metal objects from molds
• Engrave designs onto jewelry items
• Polish and finish pieces using hand tools and machinery
• Examine and grade diamonds and other gems
• Set precious and semi-precious stones in jewelry mountings
• Estimate the value of gems, precious metals, and jewelry for insurance valuations
• Maintain safety standards in the workshop
• Consult with clients to discuss designs and specifications for custom pieces

 

Precious Metal Worker Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are in search of a highly skilled Precious Metal Worker to join our team.

The Precious Metal Worker is responsible for working with precious metals to create, repair, and restore jewelry and other decorative items.

The role requires extensive knowledge of various precious metals, gemstones, and manual and power tools.

Our ideal candidate has hands-on experience in metalworking techniques such as casting, cutting, soldering, and polishing.

The ability to envision and craft intricate designs is key to this role.

 

Responsibilities

• Design, shape, solder, and polish items made from precious metals.
• Inspect and evaluate the quality of precious metals and gemstones.
• Repair and restore damaged or worn pieces of jewelry.
• Work with customers to design custom pieces.
• Ensure all pieces meet quality and safety standards.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization in the workshop.
• Stay updated on current jewelry trends and market prices of precious metals and gemstones.

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Precious Metal Worker or Jeweler.
• Experience working with various precious metals and gemstones.
• In-depth knowledge of jewelry design and fabrication techniques.
• Proficiency in using manual and power tools safely.
• Attention to detail and a steady hand.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills.
• High school diploma or equivalent. Professional training or apprenticeship in Metalwork or Jewelry Design is a plus.

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Precious Metal Worker
• Work Environment: Workshop setting. Physical stamina is required for standing long hours and manipulating heavy tools.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Lead Metal Worker or Shop Manager.
• Salary: Salary is dependent upon candidate’s experience, skills, and qualifications.
• 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 in our team. 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, a portfolio of your work (if available), and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Precious Metal Worker Do?

Precious Metal Workers are skilled artisans who work primarily with metals such as gold, silver, platinum, and palladium.

Their job scope can range from making jewelry to creating decorative pieces or even functional items.

They are involved in every step of the creation process, which includes designing, forming, casting, and finishing pieces.

They use various tools and techniques to mold and shape precious metals into desired forms.

Part of their job includes using enameling techniques, stone setting, engraving, and polishing to enhance the appearance of the finished product.

Precious Metal Workers often use a combination of hand tools and power tools to cut, shape, and fit metal pieces together.

They also need to ensure the quality and purity of the precious metals used.

This involves testing metals for purity, weighing and measuring materials, and keeping detailed records of the materials used.

In addition, they may also repair damaged jewelry, watches, or other metal goods, which can include tasks such as replacing broken parts, re-sizing rings, or cleaning pieces.

Many Precious Metal Workers work in retail or independent jewelry stores, while others might work in manufacturing or wholesale businesses.

Some may even choose to be self-employed, creating their own unique pieces for sale.

 

Precious Metal Worker Qualifications and Skills

Precious Metal Workers need to possess a range of technical skills, artistic creativity, and industry knowledge to create and repair jewelry and other items made from precious metals.

These include:

• Artistic talent and creativity to design unique and visually appealing pieces of jewelry.
• Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination to work with small, intricate pieces and tools.
• Attention to detail to ensure the accuracy and precision of each piece.
• Technical skills to understand and execute complex designs and techniques, such as casting, soldering, and stone setting.
• Knowledge of various precious metals and gemstones, and how to work with each one effectively.
• Problem-solving skills to fix issues that arise during the creation or repair of a piece.
• Business skills to manage their own businesses, including understanding pricing, marketing, and customer relations.
• Communication skills to understand customer expectations and feedback, and to explain the production or repair process.

 

Precious Metal Worker Experience Requirements

Entry-level candidates for a Precious Metal Worker role typically require a solid understanding of the properties of various precious metals, which is often acquired through an educational program in metalworking or a related field.

Practical experience, such as internships or apprenticeships under experienced precious metal workers, is highly beneficial.

Candidates with 1 to 3 years of experience in the field are generally considered proficient in basic tasks, such as cleaning, polishing, and simple repairs.

They may have also gained exposure to more complex tasks, such as creating designs or altering existing pieces.

Those with more than 3 years of experience often have a well-developed skill set, including expertise in using hand tools, power tools, and computer-aided design software.

They may also have experience in specialized techniques like engraving, stone setting, or casting.

Candidates with over 5 years of experience in the field of precious metal working are generally considered experts and may have a portfolio showcasing their craftsmanship.

They may also have some managerial or leadership experience, making them suitable for roles that involve overseeing a team or running their own business.

 

Precious Metal Worker Education and Training Requirements

Precious Metal Workers typically have a high school diploma or equivalent.

Formal education is not strictly necessary, but many professionals in this field opt for postsecondary education such as a diploma, certificate, or associate’s degree in a related field like metallurgy, jewelry design, or fine arts.

These programs provide the necessary background in the properties of metals, metallurgical techniques, and safety procedures.

They also offer hands-on training in techniques such as casting, soldering, and welding.

In addition to education, Precious Metal Workers often gain experience through apprenticeships or on-the-job training, learning from experienced workers about the intricacies of working with precious metals.

Certain roles within this field may require specific certification, such as the Certified Jeweler designation offered by the Jewelers of America.

Advanced training courses are available for those who wish to specialize in a certain technique or work with a specific type of metal.

These courses can help workers improve their skills, keep up with industry developments, and increase their marketability.

Furthermore, Precious Metal Workers should have a good eye for detail, steady hands for intricate work, and an understanding of design principles.

 

Precious Metal Worker Salary Expectations

A Precious Metal Worker can expect to earn an average salary of $41,890 (USD) per year.

This compensation may vary based on factors such as experience, specific skills, location, and the employer.

 

Precious Metal Worker Job Description FAQs

What skills does a precious metal worker need?

A precious metal worker needs excellent hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills for detailed work.

They also need artistic talent and creativity to create visually appealing designs.

Technical skills such as knowledge of various tools and methods for molding and crafting metals are also critical.

Additionally, good communication skills are important for understanding clients’ desires and explaining complicated processes in simple terms.

 

Do precious metal workers need a degree?

While a degree is not strictly necessary for a precious metal worker, many have pursued an associate or bachelor’s degree in areas like art, metallurgy, or jewelry design.

However, most precious metal workers acquire their skills through vocational schools, workshops, or apprenticeships.

A certification from a recognized industry body could also be beneficial.

 

What should you look for in a precious metal worker’s resume?

Firstly, check for experience or training in working with precious metals.

This could be through formal education, an apprenticeship, or on-the-job experience.

The resume should also highlight technical skills related to metalwork, such as engraving, molding, or soldering.

Artistic skills or a portfolio showcasing their work would also be a plus.

Finally, look for soft skills like attention to detail, creativity, and communication skills.

 

What qualities make a good precious metal worker?

A good precious metal worker is meticulous and has an eye for detail, ensuring high-quality work.

They also need to be patient and persevering, as the work can be intricate and time-consuming.

Creativity and artistic ability are also crucial for designing unique and appealing pieces.

Good problem-solving skills are required to address challenges or mistakes during the creation process.

Lastly, interpersonal skills are important for building relationships with clients and understanding their specific requirements.

 

Is it difficult to hire a precious metal worker?

Hiring a skilled precious metal worker can be challenging as it’s a specialized field requiring specific skills and training.

Many workers in this field are self-employed or work in small workshops, making the availability of skilled workers limited.

Hence, you may need to offer competitive wages and benefits to attract the right candidates.

It’s also beneficial to have a solid understanding of the skills and qualifications necessary for the role to make an informed hiring decision.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the intricate details of what it truly means to be a precious metal worker.

And guess what?

It’s not just about manipulating metals.

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

With our go-to precious metal worker job description template and real-life examples, you’re more than ready to take that step.

But why limit yourself?

Dig even deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next milestone to forging meticulous job listings or perfecting your resume to a shiny finish.

Remember:

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

Let’s shape that future. Together.