Forging Operator

Forged Solutions Group, Custom Alloy Division in High Bridge, NJ, specializes in manufacturing high-quality seamless and welded pipe and tube solutions, as well as custom fabrications for critical applications in aerospace, defense, space, and commercial industries. As a Level 1 qualified U.S. Navy manufacturer for nuclear forgings and fittings, we serve government and commercial clients with large, custom-engineered solutions in a traditional manufacturing environment.

About the role

Operates forging machinery and assists in producing large-scale metal components. Roles are structured in three levels, with increasing responsibility, technical expertise, and compensation. All candidates will be tested to ensure accurate placement.

Responsibilities

Forge Operator Level 1 (Entry-Level)

• Load raw ingots and billets into heating furnaces.
• Track furnace temperatures to ensure metal reaches proper forging heat.
• Run basic mechanical presses and auxiliary equipment under close supervision.
• Operate forklifts to move raw materials and finished parts.

Forge Operator Level 2 (Intermediate)

• Set up and operate heavy hydraulic forging presses independently.
• Drive large-capacity forklifts and specialized forging manipulators to rotate heavy pieces.
• Interpret blueprints, work orders, and engineering drawings to meet dimensional specifications.
• Use large calipers, micrometers, and gauges to check dimensions.
• Align, install, and shim forging dies and toolings.
• Guide and train Forge Operator 1 team members in safe work practices.

Forge Operator Level 3 (Senior / Lead)

• Direct the forging crew during large-scale operations.
• Sequence complex multi-step forging operations for massive, custom components.
• Execute highly technical maneuvers using heavy manipulators for tight-tolerance forging.
• Identify thermal or structural defects and ensure metallurgical requirements are met.
• Oversee preventative maintenance on presses, furnaces, and heavy handling equipment.
• Act as shop floor supervision, assigning tasks and enforcing production schedules.

Requirements

• Adherence to safety protocols.
• Use of precision instruments (micrometers, calipers).
• Ability to read blueprints and technical specifications.
• U.S. Person status: U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or protected individual as defined by ITAR (22 CFR 120.15).
• Offers contingent on passing background check and drug test.

Experience

• Level 1: Basic blueprint reading, measuring tools, forklift experience, and ability to follow instructions.
• Level 2: 2-5 years of experience; works under moderate supervision.
• Level 3: 5+ years of large-scale heavy forging experience.

Pay

• Level 1: $25–$29/hour
• Level 2: $30–$34/hour
• Level 3: $35+/hour
• Second shift earns an additional 10% differential.

Schedule

• First Shift: 5/6 AM – 3:30 PM
• Second Shift: 3:30 PM – 1:30 AM
• 40+ hours per week, with average overtime ranging from 5–15 hours weekly.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 401K
• Paid Time Off
• 10 Paid Holidays
• Safety shoe reimbursement: $200 per year
• Prescription safety glasses program
• Voluntary Supplemental Insurance
• Company Paid Life Insurance
• Voluntary Life Insurance
• Paid training and development opportunities
• Employee referral program

Physical Demands

The physical demands described are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities.

• Regularly required to use hands and fingers to handle or feel, and talk or hear.
• Frequently required to sit.
• Occasionally required to walk; reach with hands and arms; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
• Occasionally required to lift up to 100 pounds.
• Vision requirements include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities.

• Noise level in the work environment can vary.
• Traditional manufacturing environment; may be hot, cold, or dirty.