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Forge Press Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

The Press Brake Operator is a skilled technician responsible for setting up and operating press ... Operate presses or other forging machines to perform hot or cold forging to shape or form metal ...

The Press Brake Operator is a skilled technician responsible for setting up and operating press ... Operate presses or other forging machines to perform hot or cold forging to shape or form metal ...

The Press Brake Operator is a skilled technician responsible for setting up and operating press ... Operate presses or other forging machines to perform hot or cold forging to shape or form metal ...

Press Brake Operator -1st Shift

Fremont, CA

$21.75 - $28.25/hr

Operates presses or other forging machines to perform hot or cold forging to shape or form metal ... press or bending operator Proven experience as a Brake Operator or Bending Machine Operator in a ...

The Press Brake Operator is a skilled technician responsible for setting up and operating press ... Operate presses or other forging machines to perform hot or cold forging to shape or form metal ...

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Forge Press Operator information

See California salary details

$5

$17

$19

How much do forge press operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 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.

Is a forge press operator a hard job?

A forge press operator's job involves operating heavy machinery to shape metal parts, which can be physically demanding and requires attention to safety protocols. The role often requires standing for long periods, manual dexterity, and knowledge of machine operation, but it is generally considered manageable with proper training and experience.

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 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.

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 does a forge press operator do?

A forge press operator operates large mechanical or hydraulic presses to shape metal parts through forging processes. They set up, monitor, and adjust the equipment, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and inspect finished products for quality. This role often requires knowledge of machinery, safety standards, and sometimes certifications in manufacturing or metalworking.
What cities in California are hiring for Forge Press Operator jobs? Cities in California with the most Forge Press Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Forge Press Operator jobs in CA? For Forge Press Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Forge Press Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 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 Apprentice - 2nd Shift (Forging / Press)

alu

Santa Ana, CA

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

 Job Summary: Blacksmith sets up and operates the various forging presses, working in constant communication with the Blacksmith Apprentice. See different levels below:

Apprentice

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Perform set-up including any adjustments to bolts, clamps, and burner assemblies as needed.
  • Load stock/parts into conveyor oven.
  • Instruct Trainee to assure the production of quality parts
  • Check stock and die temperatures before forging parts.
  • Position stock/part for spray-on lubrication process.
  • Position the piece into the forging die with use of tongs, hydraulic clamps, air-assisted hoist and/or overhead crane
  • Assure quality and production requirements are met, as per job-specific travelers.

MINIMUM REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Education and/or Experience

  • 1 -2 years of High School or equivalent.
  • 3+ month’s related manufacturing/production experience.
  • In compliance with ITAR regulations, must be a US Citizen or US Person (U.S. Person = a natural person who is a lawful permanent resident as defined in 8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(20) or who is a protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)).

 

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES

  • Basic English (reading, writing, verbal and comprehend)
  • Ability to communicate with co-workers, supervisor, and QC personnel
  • Basic Math and Measuring

Level 1

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Closed Die

  • Operate the forging press at console.
  • Lubricate die surfaces and stock/parts.
  • Instruct Trainee to assure the production of quality parts.
  • Maintain accurate part-counts of current production.
  • Assure quality and production requirements are met, as per job-specific travelers.

Hand Forge

  • Instruct loader on use of the tong manipulator
  • Operate manipulator forklift
  • Perform in-process inspection of product
  • Assure quality and production requirements are met, as per job-specific travelers

MINIMUM REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS 

Education and/or Experience

  • 1-2 years of High School or equivalent.
  • 3+ month’s related manufacturing/production experience.
  • Pass Written and Practical Test
  • In compliance with ITAR regulations, must be a US Citizen or US Person (U.S. Person = a natural person who is a lawful permanent resident as defined in 8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(20) or who is a protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)).

Level 2

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Must have ability to display skills of Level 1 plus:

Closed Die

  • Perform in-process inspection of product.
  • Run standard and complex closed die shapes (including wrap dies)

Hand Forge

  • Operate forging press for Hand Forge operations and stress relieve.
  • In-process Inspection of Hand Forgings
  • Instruct operator of the manipulator forklift.
  • Operate the billet saw to cut raw material as necessary.

MINIMUM REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Education and/or Experience

  • 1-2 years of High School or equivalent.
  • 3+ month’s related manufacturing/production experience.
  • Pass Written and Practical Test
  • In compliance with ITAR regulations, must be a US Citizen or US Person (U.S. Person = a natural person who is a lawful permanent resident as defined in 8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(20) or who is a protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)).

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES

  • Basic English (reading, writing, verbal and comprehend)
  • Ability to communicate with co-workers, supervisor, and QC personnel
  • Basic Math and Measuring

Level 3

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Must have ability to display talents of Level 1 & 2

Closed Die

  • Ability to train all levels
  • Ability to operate mechanical press
  • Skill to forge all closed die products

Hand Forge

  • Ability to train all levels
  • Skill to forge all hand forge products
  • Have an ability to operate billet saw

 

MINIMUM REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Education and/or Experience

  • 1-2 years of High School or equivalent.
  • In compliance with ITAR regulations, must be a US Citizen or US Person (U.S. Person = a natural person who is a lawful permanent resident as defined in 8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(20) or who is a protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)).

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES

  • Basic English (reading, writing, verbal and comprehend)
  • Ability to communicate with co-workers, supervisor, and QC personnel
  • Basic Math and measuring
  • Ability to use and operate equipment and machinery.
  • Ability to follow specific instructions and directions
  • Able to work in a demanding fast paced environment.

Why work for APP?

  • On-the-job training and opportunities for advancement with a strong promote within program.
  • Medical, Dental, Vision – Generous company contribution, low cost to employee
  • Life insurance – 100% company paid - covers employee, spouse and dependent children
  • Generous Vacation Time
  • 9 Paid Holidays
  • Holiday Shut Down (Christmas thru New Year’s)
  • Sick Time
  • Annual Bonus (based on company meeting Key Results)
  • 401k (Company matches up to 4%)
  • ESOP Employee Profit Sharing Retirement Plan (100% Company Paid)
  • Tuition reimbursement

This role may be a good fit for you if you have had experience as a Manufacturing Associate, Production Worker, Machine Operator, Welder, or Metal Fabricator. 

Compensation:

Apprentice: $20 - 22.00 per hour

Level 1: $22 - $24.50 per hour

Level 2: $24 - $27.50 per hour

Level 3: $27 - $32 per hour

This is the lowest to highest hourly rate we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting. We may ultimately pay more or less than the posted range, and the range may be modified in the future. An employee’s pay within the salary range will be based on several factors including, but limited to, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, geographic location, performance, and business or organizational needs.