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Forge Helper Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

The Forge Shop / Heat Treat Helper plays a crucial role in the steel manufacturing process. This position is essential for ensuring that materials are properly forged and heat-treated to meet quality ...

Melt Shop Helper

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$21.48/hr

Finkl Steel is one of the world's leading manufacturers of forging die steels, plastic injection ... As a Melt Shop Helper, you will play a crucial role in the production process of steel ...

This position will help ensure the safe production of quality parts by forging and trimming of automotive hub bearings as part of a press team. Starting Wage: $21.00 We offer a 2nd shift differential ...

Be Seen First

NOW HIRING - FORGING MACHINE OPERATORS Carol Stream, IL $21.00 - $24.00 per hour 1st and 2nd Shift ... We bring value to our talent by helping them identify their individual skills and aptitudes ...

New

Be Seen First

NOW HIRING - FORGING MACHINE OPERATORS Carol Stream, IL $21.00 - $24.00 per hour 1st and 2nd Shift ... We bring value to our talent by helping them identify their individual skills and aptitudes ...

New

... Forge software - that help make the world smarter, safer and more sustainable. YOU MUST HAVE * Minimum associates degree in scientific discipline, or 2+ years of experience in analytical laboratory ...

R&D Tech II

Mccook, IL ยท On-site

... Forge software - that help make the world smarter, safer and more sustainable. YOU MUST HAVE * Minimum associates degree in scientific discipline, or 2+ years of experience in analytical laboratory ...

R&D Tech I

Mccook, IL

$44K - $56K/yr

... Forge software - that help make the world smarter, safer and more sustainable. YOU MUST HAVE Experience supporting research and development projects within a technology or manufacturing environment.

Principal Chemical Engineer

Des Plaines, IL ยท On-site

$162K - $203K/yr

... Forge software - that help make the world smarter, safer and more sustainable. YOU MUST HAVE * Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Science, Technology, or a related field * 6+ years of experience in ...

R&D Tech I

Mccook, IL ยท On-site

$44K - $56K/yr

... Forge software - that help make the world smarter, safer and more sustainable. YOU MUST HAVE Experience supporting research and development projects within a technology or manufacturing environment.

Principal Chemical Engineer

Des Plaines, IL ยท Hybrid

$162K - $190K/yr

... Forge software - that help make the world smarter, safer and more sustainable. MUST HAVE * Bachelors degree in Chemical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering or related fields. * 10+ years' industry ...

Principal Chemical Engineer

Des Plaines, IL ยท On-site

$162K - $203K/yr

... Forge software - that help make the world smarter, safer and more sustainable. YOU MUST HAVE * Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Science, Technology, or a related field * 6+ years of experience in ...

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Forge Helper information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$10

$16

$23

How much do forge helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for forge helper in Chicago, IL is $16.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $18.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by forge helpers, and how can they be overcome?

Forge Helpers often work in physically demanding environments with high temperatures and heavy materials, which can present challenges such as fatigue and safety risks. Effective teamwork and communication with blacksmiths and other forge staff are crucial to maintain a smooth workflow and prevent accidents. Utilizing proper personal protective equipment (PPE), following safety protocols, and staying organized can help Forge Helpers manage these challenges and contribute to a safe and efficient forge operation.

What is the difference between Forge Helper vs Welder?

AspectForge HelperWelder
Required CertificationsBasic safety training, possibly OSHAWelding certifications (e.g., AWS, CWI)
Work EnvironmentForge or foundry setting, assisting with metalworkFabrication shops, construction sites, industrial plants
Job ResponsibilitiesPreparing materials, assisting welders, handling toolsJoining metals through welding processes

Forge Helpers assist in foundry or forge environments by preparing materials and supporting welders, while Welders perform the actual metal joining using welding techniques. Both roles require safety training, but Welders need specialized certifications. Forge Helpers typically work alongside Welders in industrial settings, making their roles complementary but distinct.

What is a forge helper?

Forge Helpers are workers who assist blacksmiths or metalworkers in a forge or metalworking shop. Their responsibilities typically include preparing materials, operating basic forging equipment, heating metals, and handling tools under the supervision of skilled smiths. They may also help in cleaning the workspace, moving heavy objects, and performing basic maintenance on equipment. Forge Helpers play a crucial role in ensuring that the forging process runs smoothly and efficiently. Their work is often physically demanding and requires attention to safety protocols.

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

To thrive as a Forge Helper, you need a basic understanding of metalworking processes, physical stamina, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial tools such as hammers, tongs, power hammers, and safety equipment is typically required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and the ability to follow instructions help Forge Helpers excel in supporting blacksmiths or metalworkers. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining safety, efficiency, and high-quality output in a demanding manufacturing environment.
What are popular job titles related to Forge Helper jobs in Chicago, IL? For Forge Helper jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Forge Helper jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Forge Helper jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Forge Helper jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Forge Helper job openings:
Infographic showing various Forge Helper job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,221 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

Forge Shop/Heat Treat Helper

A Finkl & Sons Co

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

$21.48/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

About Company:

Finkl Steel is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of forging die steels, plastic injection mold steels, die casting tool steels, forged alloy bars, and custom open die forgings. Finkl Steel is a member of international Swiss Steel Group and manufactures products at three production facilities in Chicago, Houston, Detroit and Sorel (CAN). We sell our products in North America and to 18 countries worldwide. With more than 100 patents, our steel formulations and steelmaking technologies set worldwide standards. In recognition of Finkl Steel’s product quality, our facilities were the first in America to receive ISO 9000 registration.

Finkl Steel provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

About the Role:

The Forge Shop / Heat Treat Helper plays a crucial role in the steel manufacturing process. This position is essential for ensuring that materials are properly forged and heat-treated to meet quality standards and specifications. The responsibilities shall include the operation of the overhead cranes as they relate to all forging activities, sweeping, shoveling and general housekeeping necessary to maintain a clean and orderly shop. The Forge Shop / Heat Treat Helper will be trained to run all the forging equipment with the intent to place them on the crew positions as they become available.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or GED required
  • Ability to handle a physical workload
  • Must be able to lift, push, and pull 50 pounds

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Previous experience in production, manufacturing or related field a plus, but not required
  • Experience operating overhead cranes and/or forklifts a plus, but not required

Responsibilities:

  • Sweep up around all furnaces daily
  • Clean up around all 3 presses (8000, 4500 & 1500)
  • Helping the crew when needed (stamp, spray, marking rod & changing dies)
  • Operate overhead crane
  • Remove jobs/scrap from the press
  • Load scrap into the scrap buckets
  • Transfer finished jobs to the heat treat department
  • Transfer billets to the light forge area
  • Change ingots coming from the melt shop
  • General clean up in the shop
  • Run the bobcat, forklift, pay loader, transfer cars & sweeper
  • Steam clean equipment when time permits
  • Paint equipment when time permits
  • Mark scrap (grade) before sending to the melt shop

Benefits:

  • Extra $0.30 for working 2nd shift & extra $0.40 for working 3rd shift
  • Overtime and Double Time
  • Medical, Dental and Vision benefits
  • 401k Match & Profit Sharing
  • STD and Life Insurance
  • 10 paid holidays/PTO
  • Quarterly Gainsharing Bonuses
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Union Membership