Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Forging Assistant
💰 $35,000 - $55,000
ManufacturingMetalworkingIndustrialProduction
🎯 Role Definition
The Forging Assistant supports metal forging operations by assisting skilled metalworkers and machine operators in producing high-quality forged components. This role involves material preparation, equipment operation support, quality monitoring, safety compliance, and collaboration within the production team to ensure efficient workflow and consistent product quality.
📈 Career Progression
Typical Career Path
Entry Point From:
- Production Assistant
- Machine Operator Trainee
- Metalworking Laborer
Advancement To:
- Forging Technician
- Senior Metalworker
- Production Supervisor
Lateral Moves:
- Heat Treatment Assistant
- CNC Machine Operator
Core Responsibilities
Primary Functions
- Assist skilled metalworkers and operators in forging operations, including heating, shaping, and finishing metal components.
- Prepare raw materials, including metals, alloys, and dies, according to production specifications.
- Load and unload materials into furnaces, presses, and hammers safely and efficiently.
- Monitor temperature and forging times to ensure proper material properties and prevent defects.
- Perform routine equipment inspections and maintenance checks to support smooth operations.
- Assist with die alignment, tooling setup, and machine calibration under supervision.
- Observe quality control standards, identifying defects or inconsistencies in forged products.
- Maintain organized workstations, clean tools, and safe material storage.
- Follow strict safety procedures to prevent accidents, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Record production metrics, material usage, and operational observations accurately.
- Collaborate with production team members to ensure timely completion of forging schedules.
- Handle hot and heavy metal components carefully, following ergonomics and lifting protocols.
- Support post-forging processes such as trimming, finishing, and inspection preparation.
- Communicate operational issues, equipment malfunctions, or quality concerns to supervisors promptly.
- Participate in training programs to improve knowledge of forging techniques and machinery.
- Ensure compliance with company policies, industry standards, and environmental regulations.
- Assist in the setup and teardown of forging presses, hammers, and furnaces for production runs.
- Maintain inventory of tools, dies, and raw materials, reporting shortages or damage.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives to optimize efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance product quality.
- Foster a cooperative and professional working environment, contributing to team performance and safety culture.
Secondary Functions
- Support ad-hoc production data collection and reporting.
- Contribute to the development of safer and more efficient forging processes.
- Collaborate with engineering or quality teams on process documentation and workflow improvements.
- Participate in team meetings and knowledge-sharing initiatives.
Required Skills & Competencies
Hard Skills (Technical)
- Basic knowledge of forging processes, metal properties, and heat treatment
- Equipment operation support (forging presses, hammers, furnaces)
- Tooling setup and die handling
- Quality control and inspection awareness
- Material handling and preparation
- Safety and PPE compliance in metalworking environments
- Production recordkeeping and reporting
- Understanding of metal finishing and post-forging processes
- Knowledge of workplace ergonomics and lifting techniques
- Basic mechanical and maintenance skills
Soft Skills
- Attention to detail and precision
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Effective communication
- Time management and punctuality
- Problem-solving and adaptability
- Patience and focus in repetitive tasks
- Physical stamina and resilience
- Safety awareness and responsibility
- Willingness to learn and follow instructions
- Professionalism and reliability
Education & Experience
Educational Background
Minimum Education:
High School Diploma or equivalent
Preferred Education:
Vocational or technical training in metalworking, manufacturing, or industrial operations
Relevant Fields of Study:
- Manufacturing Technology
- Industrial Engineering
- Metalworking / Welding
Experience Requirements
Typical Experience Range:
0–2 years in manufacturing, metalworking, or industrial production
Preferred:
Experience in a forging or heavy manufacturing environment, assisting skilled operators and demonstrating knowledge of safety procedures and production workflows