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Blacksmith Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Blacksmith information

See Wisconsin salary details

$5

$21

How much do blacksmith jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for blacksmith in Wisconsin is $20.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.91 and $20.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a blacksmith?

Blacksmiths are skilled tradespeople who work with metal, primarily by heating, hammering, bending, and shaping it to create tools, hardware, decorative objects, and sometimes horseshoes. They use traditional techniques and modern equipment to manipulate iron, steel, and other metals. Blacksmiths often repair or restore metal items and may also design custom metalwork for architectural or artistic purposes. Their work combines craftsmanship, creativity, and practical problem-solving.

What do blacksmiths do?

Blacksmiths work with metal to create different kinds of tools and objects. Using a forge to heat and soften the metal, blacksmiths then use an anvil to hammer the material into the appropriate shapes. According to the National Careers Service, blacksmithing is a trade that been around for centuries. While factories and casting processes have taken over much of the work of traditional blacksmiths, a career as a blacksmith is still a necessary and rewarding path for people who enjoy working with their hands.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a blacksmith, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Blacksmith, you need a solid understanding of metallurgy, metalworking techniques, and proficiency in using forging tools, often acquired through apprenticeships or vocational training. Familiarity with anvils, hammers, tongs, power tools, and safety equipment is essential, and some may pursue certifications in welding or metal fabrication. Creativity, attention to detail, and physical stamina are standout soft skills for this hands-on, artistic profession. These abilities ensure the production of high-quality metalwork, safe working practices, and the ability to meet custom client or industrial specifications.

What are some common challenges a blacksmith may face in a modern workshop environment?

Blacksmiths today often encounter challenges such as adapting traditional forging skills to modern safety standards, handling a variety of metals with different properties, and maintaining specialized equipment. Additionally, blacksmiths may need to balance custom, artistic projects with repair or restoration work, requiring both creativity and precision. Collaboration with clients, metalworkers, and other artisans is also common, making strong communication skills essential for success in this role.

What is the difference between Blacksmith vs Welder?

AspectBlacksmithWelder
Required CredentialsNone mandatory, often apprenticeships or certifications in forgingCertifications like AWS or CWB often required
Work EnvironmentForge, workshop, outdoor settingsConstruction sites, factories, workshops
Industry UsageArt, decorative ironwork, custom metalworkManufacturing, construction, repair

Blacksmiths and welders both work with metals, but blacksmiths focus on forging and shaping metal through heating and hammering, often creating artistic or custom pieces. Welders specialize in joining metals using welding techniques, primarily for industrial and construction purposes. While their skills overlap in metalwork, their tools, techniques, and typical work environments differ significantly.

Are there still blacksmithing jobs?

Blacksmithing jobs are still available, primarily in specialized craft shops, restoration projects, and artistic metalworking. While the industry is smaller than in the past, skilled blacksmiths with knowledge of tools like hammers and anvils can find opportunities in custom work, historical preservation, and teaching. Employment may require apprenticeships or certifications and often involves manual labor and creative skills.

How much money can a blacksmith make?

Blacksmiths typically earn between $30,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and specialization. Skilled blacksmiths with certifications or those working in high-demand areas can earn higher wages, especially if they run their own shops or work on custom projects.

Is a blacksmith a good career?

A blacksmith is a skilled tradesperson who works with metal using tools like hammers and anvils, often in a workshop or forge. The career can be rewarding for those interested in craftsmanship and traditional techniques, but it may involve physical labor, irregular hours, and a competitive market. Success often depends on skill level, specialization, and business acumen.

What job categories do people searching Blacksmith jobs in Wisconsin look for?

The top searched job categories for Blacksmith jobs in Wisconsin are:

What are popular job titles related to Blacksmith jobs in WI?

For Blacksmith jobs in WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Blacksmith job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 50% In-person, and 50% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,459 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

PART TIME Millwright, Journeyman

Forte Opening Solutions

Marshfield, WI • On-site

$27.25 - $34/hr

Other

Re-posted 19 days ago


Forte Opening Solutions rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

At Forte Opening Solutions, we don't just manufacture doors; we create pathways to possibilities. We empower our employees to shape the future of our industry. Join a team where craftsmanship meets cutting-edge technology, and where your ideas can open new doors. Together, we build not just products, but a culture of excellence and collaboration.
  • Flexible hours between 6:45AM - 10:45PM
  • Work no more than 29 hours a week

Overview
Under general supervision, the Maintenance Millwright performs various maintenance and construction tasks while engaged in the installation, maintenance, and repair of all types of plant machinery and equipment and in fabrication and construction of plant machinery and equipment. Installs, repairs levels, and aligns all types of machinery and equipment. Practices on a wide scale preventive maintenance to anticipate and to prevent equipment trouble.
What you will do:
• Unloads moves, dismantles, and installs new and old machinery as required.
• Reads and interprets blueprints and fabricates items using all types of metal.
• Performs various blacksmith, welding, and pipe fitting duties.
• Directs apprentices in performing less complex work. Performs related duties as required.
What you will need:
  • Must have State of Wisconsin Journeyman/Journeywoman Millwright accreditation
  • Must have a completed high school diploma or GED
  • Minimum 1 year Millwright experience

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
• Use a computer to read order specifications, update databases, and retrieve/update data as required.
• Able to accurately take measurements using a tap measure and calipers.
• Use hand tools, power tools and drive fork trucks and use push carts in a safe and efficient manner.
• Ability to lift up to 60lbs and on occasion push/pull 100lbs, also to sit, kneel and stoop.
• Must be able to add & subtract fractions and whole numbers and convert fractions to decimals.
• Ability to read, follow, and understand work instructions from both written and verbal sources and basic writing skills.
• Excellent attendance record
• Commitment to your team members, self-motivation, and accountability to safety & quality.

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