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Forge Press Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

STS Metals

BLACKSMITH / PRESS OPERATOR

Irwindale, CA

$25 - $30/hr

In addition to hands-on forging responsibilities, this person will lead a forge crew in daily ... Minimum 2 years of experience in metal forging, press operations, or related field (preferred)

THE GILL CORPORATION

Expander (86369)

El Monte, CA · On-site

$23.97 - $28.88/hr

Fill out shop work order with press times, pin plies, material, and heat-set information * Record labor transactions in SAP. * Record material usage and press times on shop work order. * Perform ...

United Employment Group

Be Seen First

Operations Manager - Open Die Forging

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

Own daily forging production -- scheduling, throughput, on-time delivery, and shift-to-shift ... Direct and develop press operators, furnace operators, manipulator operators, and finishing ...

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Forge Press Operator information

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How much do forge press operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for forge press operator in California is $17.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a forge press operator?

A Forge Press Operator is a skilled worker responsible for operating forging presses in manufacturing settings. They shape metal parts by controlling large mechanical or hydraulic presses that apply force to heated metal, forming it into specific shapes or components. Forge Press Operators monitor equipment, ensure safety protocols are followed, and inspect finished products for quality. Their work is essential in industries like automotive, aerospace, and machinery manufacturing, where precision metal parts are required.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a forge press operator?

To thrive as a Forge Press Operator, you need a solid understanding of metalworking processes, blueprint reading, and safety procedures, often supported by a high school diploma or vocational training. Familiarity with hydraulic and mechanical forging presses, measuring instruments, and sometimes CNC controls is typically required. Attention to detail, physical stamina, and strong problem-solving skills help operators excel in demanding manufacturing environments. These skills ensure the efficient production of high-quality forged parts while maintaining workplace safety and minimizing errors.

What are common challenges faced by forge press operators and how can they be managed?

Forge Press Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining precision under high-pressure conditions, managing the physical demands of the job, and ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols. Dealing with heavy machinery requires constant attention to detail and quick problem-solving skills to address equipment malfunctions or material inconsistencies. To manage these challenges, operators receive thorough safety and technical training, participate in regular equipment maintenance routines, and often work closely with quality assurance and engineering teams to ensure product standards are consistently met.

What is the difference between Forge Press Operator vs Machinist?

AspectForge Press OperatorMachinist
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job training, possibly certifications in safety or machineryHigh school diploma, technical training, certifications in machining or CNC programming
Work EnvironmentFactories with heavy machinery, forging presses, and metalworking equipmentMachine shops, manufacturing plants, metalworking environments
Industry UsagePrimarily in metal forging and heavy manufacturingIn various manufacturing sectors including aerospace, automotive, and metal fabrication

While both Forge Press Operators and Machinists work in manufacturing environments involving metalwork, Forge Press Operators focus on operating forging presses to shape metal parts, requiring knowledge of press operation and safety. Machinists, on the other hand, operate and program machine tools to produce precise parts. Both roles require technical skills and safety certifications, but their specific tasks and equipment differ significantly.

Is a forge press operator a stressful job?

A forge press operator's job can be physically demanding and requires attention to safety protocols, which may contribute to stress. The work environment often involves managing heavy machinery and maintaining strict production schedules, which can add to job pressure. However, stress levels vary depending on the workplace and individual experience.

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Forge Press Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forge Press Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,022 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

BLACKSMITH / PRESS OPERATOR

STS Metals

Irwindale, CA

$25 - $30/hr

Full-time

Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Operate forging equipment and manipulators to shape and move metal components according to specifications.

  • Lead a forge crew in daily forging, straightening, and heat treating operations, including tasks such as loading material into furnaces and handling forged parts.

  • Read and interpret blueprints, forge instructions, and work orders to guide operations.

Job description

STS Metals is a unified organization composed of five businesses working together to deliver high-quality titanium, stainless and alloy steel, and nickel products. We proudly serve the aerospace, medical, industrial, and space industries with a commitment to innovation, manufacturing excellence, and superior customer service. 

 This position is classified as regular, full-time, Non-Exempt. The Blacksmith/Straightener is responsible for primarily operating straightening presses and other related forge equipment to shape metal components according to specifications. In addition to hands-on forging responsibilities, this person will lead a forge crew in daily forging operations, directing team members in tasks such as loading material into furnaces, handling forged parts, and scheduling production orders. This role works closely with other departments to coordinate the movement of material throughout the plant and plays a key part in ensuring safe, efficient, and accurate metal forming processes.

Principal Duties: 

The responsibilities of this role include but are not limited to: 

  • Lead the forge crew in daily straightening, forging, & heat treating operations using presses and furnaces. 

  • Operate forging equipment and manipulators to shape and move metal components. 

  • Read and interpret blueprints, forge instructions, and work orders to guide operations. 

  • Heat, load, and unload material into furnaces, maintaining material identification throughout the process. 

  • Adjust equipment settings based on material type and job requirements. 

  • Inspect parts and use precision tools (e.g., calipers) to ensure quality standards are met. 

  • Monitor equipment, report issues, and perform routine maintenance checks. 

  • Maintain a clean, safe work area and follow all safety protocols. 

  • Collaborate with other departments to meet production goals. 

  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Education & qualifications:

  • High school diploma or GED preferred but not required. 

  • Minimum 2 years of experience in metal forging, press operations, or related field (preferred) 

  • Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings and blueprints. 

  • Familiarity with forging temperatures, metallurgy, and basic machining processes. 

  • Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.  

  • Ability to operate forklifts or overhead cranes (certification preferred). 

  • Commitment to workplace safety and continuous improvement. 

We offer benefits designed to support you at work and at home:

  • Medical: Choice of Kaiser or Anthem, with the company covering a generous portion of the employee contribution on the base plan, plus the option to choose from multiple plan levels

  • Dental & Vision: Company-sponsored coverage, including a base dental plan with buy-up options and vision coverage

  • Retirement: 401(k) with up to a 6% company contribution

  • Wellness: Monthly wellness program with opportunities to participate and earn monthly raffle prizes

  • Education: Tuition reimbursement to support continued learning and career development

  • Time Off: Paid holidays, 2 floating holidays, vacation, and sick time

  • Stability & Support: Year-round operation, clear expectations, and leadership and HR support

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