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Blacksmithing Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Blacksmithing information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a blacksmith?

To thrive as a Blacksmith, you need solid practical knowledge of metallurgy, forging techniques, and metalworking, often gained through apprenticeships or vocational training. Familiarity with tools such as anvils, hammers, tongs, power hammers, and safety equipment is essential, and certifications in welding or metal fabrication can be advantageous. Creativity, attention to detail, and strong problem-solving skills help blacksmiths produce high-quality, bespoke metalwork and adapt to design challenges. These abilities are crucial for ensuring both the functionality and artistry of metal products, as well as maintaining safety in a demanding workshop environment.

What are some common challenges faced by blacksmiths in a modern workshop environment?

Blacksmiths in modern workshops often face challenges such as adapting traditional techniques to new technologies, maintaining safety standards while working with high temperatures and heavy equipment, and sourcing quality materials. Additionally, balancing custom orders with production work and managing time efficiently can be demanding. Collaboration with other craftsmen and clients is also crucial for meeting specific design requirements and ensuring successful project outcomes.

What is the difference between Blacksmithing vs Metal Fabrication?

AspectBlacksmithingMetal Fabrication
CredentialsMinimal formal education, apprenticeships commonOften requires technical certifications or degrees
Work EnvironmentTraditional workshops, small-scale projectsFactories, large workshops, industrial settings
Industry UsageArt, custom ironwork, repairsMass production, structural components, machinery
Tools & TechniquesHammer, anvil, forge, hand toolsCutting, welding, CNC machines, power tools

Blacksmithing focuses on handcrafted metalwork, artistic pieces, and repairs using traditional tools. Metal fabrication involves large-scale manufacturing, structural components, and industrial processes with advanced machinery. While both roles work with metal, their environments, techniques, and scope differ significantly.

Can blacksmithing be a career?

Blacksmithing is a skilled trade that can be pursued as a career, often involving creating custom metalwork, tools, or decorative items. It requires technical skills, knowledge of metal properties, and safety practices, and may involve working in workshops or on commissions. Certification or apprenticeship programs can enhance employment opportunities.

What is blacksmithing?

Blacksmithing is the craft of forging and shaping metal, typically iron or steel, using tools like hammers, anvils, and tongs. Blacksmiths heat metal in a forge until it becomes malleable, then hammer, bend, and cut it to create objects such as horseshoes, tools, decorative items, and hardware. This ancient trade requires both physical strength and technical skill, as well as a deep understanding of metallurgy. Blacksmiths can work in traditional settings or modern workshops, and the craft continues to be valued for both functional and artistic creations.

Do blacksmithing make good money?

Blacksmithing is typically a skilled trade with income varying based on experience, location, and specialization. Many blacksmiths earn income through custom work, art pieces, or restoration projects, but it often requires building a reputation and may have inconsistent income initially.

Are there still blacksmithing jobs?

Blacksmithing jobs are still available, primarily in specialized craft shops, restoration projects, and artistic metalworking. Many blacksmiths work as artisans or in niche markets, often requiring skills in traditional techniques and tools like anvils and forges. Opportunities may be limited compared to other trades but exist for those with craftsmanship expertise.

What are popular job titles related to Blacksmithing jobs in Virginia?

For Blacksmithing jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Blacksmithing jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Blacksmithing jobs in Virginia are:

Infographic showing various Blacksmithing job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Locum Tenens, 66% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution.

$15/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Retirement

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Historic Trades Interpreter
Part-time
Introduction:
The Education and Guest Services Division provides meaningful learning opportunities for Mount Vernon’s one million annual onsite visitors and students in classrooms around the country. Through a diverse portfolio of interpretive experiences, engaging programs, and online resources, we expand each learner’s understanding of, and appreciation for, George Washington and the revolutionary world in which he lived.
The Department of Historic Trades, one of Guest Experience’s operating units, manages interpretive operations at the Pioneer Farm, George Washington’s Distillery amp; Gristmill, and the Blacksmith Shop. The Department also supports several special student and guest programs.
Ready to learn a trade at Mount Vernon?
Compensation:
$15.00/hour
Expected Hours:
2 Weekdays and Every other Weekend (24 hours/week)
Responsibilities:
  • Create a positive learning environment for guests of all ages and backgrounds by being hospitable, approachable, and professional in all guest interactions
  • Provide guests with accurate, interesting, and pertinent historical information about George Washington and Mount Vernon in an engaging, timely, and articulate manner. Answer guest questions and tailor delivery techniques to maximize impact whenever possible. Follow departmental interpretive strategies in order to effectively integrate your interpretation into the total guest learning experience
  • Develop and perform demonstrations of 18th-century trades and crafts as requested (including milling, distilling, blacksmithing, farming, cooking, spinning and weaving, among others; only those with proven proficiency), in order to produce an immersive experience and effectively exhibit Washington’s entrepreneurship, innovation, and self-sufficiency
  • Assist the daily manager/lead interpreter with the opening, closing, cleaning, and maintenance of relevant sites. Operate machinery and handle tools and equipment in a safe and appropriate manner.
  • Assist with the implementation of emergency procedures when necessary to ensure safety for guests and staff
  • Actively grow your knowledge of Washington’s plantation and 18th-century trades and crafts in order to continually enhance your interpretive ability
  • Assist with special tours, student programs, and other projects as needed
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills required
  • Must work well with a diverse audience and have a sincere interest in history
  • Must be responsible, flexible, punctual, able to lift 50lbs., and perform all manner of physical labor
  • Ability to work creatively and effectively as a member of a team is mandatory
Special Requirements:
  • Must be able to stand/walk for long periods on varying surfaces, inside and outside, and in a variety of conditions
  • Must comply with: departmental dress code (period dress); departmental standard operating procedures
  • Must work frequent weekends, evenings, and holidays
How to Apply:
Use our online application system to apply for the position. Applicants may also choose to apply using Indeed.
Please be prepared to submit a cover letter and resume. Cover letters should specifically address qualifications and/or transferable skills related to the position qualifications and requirements.
Application Review will begin in February.

Division-Wide Principles:
The Education and Guest Services team is composed of the Interpretation, Historic Trades, Guest Services, and Learning Departments. In sum total this group is comprised of more than 150 full- and part-time staff members who connect Mount Vernon’s mission to a variety of audiences using onsite and offsite programming and physical and digital projects.
  1. Exceed audience learning expectations and ensure a level of access in which everyone is welcome. Be friendly, respectful, engaging, and flexible. Always remember that this visit may be their first and only.
  2. Encourage a meaningful appreciation of George Washington and the world in which he lived. Ensure that his legacies connect to the world our audiences live in today.
  3. Engage yourself in the mission of the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association – take responsibility for your continued development and commit to collaboration. Care for your colleagues and be proud of what we accomplish together.
Benefits:
  • 403(b) Retirement plan with employer matching
  • Employee recognition at 5 years of service
  • Monthly employee events
  • Employee referral program
  • Flexible work schedule
  • On-site Library
  • Discount on Public Event Tickets
  • Discount in the Mount Vernon Shops
  • Discount at the Mount Vernon Inn and The General’s Canteen
  • Free parking
Mount Vernon is dedicated to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we are committed to building and retaining a team that represents a variety of skills, experiences and perspectives. All employment decisions are based on business needs, job requirements, performance, and qualifications without regard to race, religion or belief, national or ethnic origin, gender/sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital or domestic partnership status, veteran and military status, family or parental status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law. Mount Vernon will not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on any of these characteristics.