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Forging Machine Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Lathe Operator

Taylor, MI · On-site

$23.27 - $30.43/hr

... and precise machining for components and parts expeditiously, meeting quality assurance ... forging, non-ferrous technology, and heat treatment plants - all from a single source. SMS group ...

Cold Header

Plymouth, MI · On-site

$62K - $65K/yr

A Cold Header Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining cold heading machines to ... Set up and operate cold heading machines to form metal parts through a forging process. This ...

CNC Operator - 5 Axis

Lapeer, MI

$19 - $25.75/hr

... forgings, plates, blocks, and tubing by performing the following duties: Essential Functions ... Plans machining by studying work orders, blueprints, engineering plans, materials, specifications ...

Machinist (2nd Shift) - AeroMotion

Saginaw, MI · On-site

$20.25 - $27.75/hr

... forgings and bar stock. Reads process sheets/work instructions and blueprints to determine ... of operating lathe and mill machining without supervision. • Complete customer product ...

Machinist (2nd Shift) - AeroMotion

Saginaw, MI

$20.25 - $27.75/hr

... forgings and bar stock. Reads process sheets/work instructions and blueprints to determine ... Capable of operating lathe and mill machining without supervision. Complete customer product ...

Machinist (2nd Shift) - AeroMotion

Saginaw, MI · On-site

$20.25 - $27.75/hr

... forgings and bar stock. Reads process sheets/work instructions and blueprints to determine ... Capable of operating lathe and mill machining without supervision. Complete customer product ...

CNC Operator - 5 Axis

Lapeer, MI

$19 - $25.75/hr

... forgings, plates, blocks, and tubing by performing the following duties: Essential Functions ... Plans machining by studying work orders, blueprints, engineering plans, materials, specifications ...

CNC Machinist, Hip

Haslett, MI

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

The Lansing facility specializes in the forging and machining of hip and knee implants across our 3 ... operating manual machine tools to cut, drill, shape, and finish quality products with minimal or no ...

CNC Machinist, Hip

Leslie, MI

$18 - $24.75/hr

The Lansing facility specializes in the forging and machining of hip and knee implants across our 3 ... operating manual machine tools to cut, drill, shape, and finish quality products with minimal or no ...

CNC Machinist, Hip

Mason, MI

$18 - $24.50/hr

The Lansing facility specializes in the forging and machining of hip and knee implants across our 3 ... operating manual machine tools to cut, drill, shape, and finish quality products with minimal or no ...

CNC Machinist, Hip

Holt, MI

$18.25 - $25/hr

The Lansing facility specializes in the forging and machining of hip and knee implants across our 3 ... operating manual machine tools to cut, drill, shape, and finish quality products with minimal or no ...

CNC Machinist, Hip

Lansing, MI

$20.75 - $28.50/hr

The Lansing facility specializes in the forging and machining of hip and knee implants across our 3 ... operating manual machine tools to cut, drill, shape, and finish quality products with minimal or no ...

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Forging Machine Operator information

See Michigan salary details

$13

$18

$33

How much do forging machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for forging machine operator in Michigan is $18.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $18.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Forging Machine Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often complemented by on-the-job training or vocational courses. Familiarity with forging presses, CNC machinery, measurement tools, and adherence to safety standards is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help operators address production challenges and maintain workflow. These abilities are crucial for ensuring product quality, workplace safety, and efficient manufacturing processes.

What are forging machine operators?

Forging machine operators are skilled workers who set up, operate, and maintain machines that shape metal parts through the process of forging. They use presses, hammers, and other equipment to form metal into desired shapes by applying compressive forces. Their responsibilities include monitoring machine performance, ensuring quality standards, and performing routine maintenance. Forging machine operators often work in manufacturing plants that produce automotive, aerospace, or industrial components. Attention to detail and adherence to safety protocols are essential in this role.

What are some common challenges faced by Forging Machine Operators, and how can they be overcome?

Forging Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining precise tolerances, handling heavy materials, and ensuring safety around high-temperature equipment. Staying attentive to machine calibration and routine maintenance helps minimize errors and prevent breakdowns. Operators can overcome these challenges by following strict safety protocols, participating in ongoing training, and collaborating closely with quality control and maintenance teams to ensure smooth operations and product consistency.

What is the difference between Forging Machine Operator vs Machinist?

AspectForging Machine OperatorMachinist
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some certifications in forging or manufacturingHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical training or certifications in machining
Work EnvironmentFactories specializing in metal forging, heavy machineryMachine shops, manufacturing plants, metalworking environments
Job FocusOperating forging presses and hammers to shape metalOperating lathes, mills, and other precision tools to produce parts
Industry UsageCommon in metal forging and heavy manufacturingWidespread across manufacturing, aerospace, automotive industries

While both Forging Machine Operators and Machinists work in manufacturing environments involving metalwork, Forging Machine Operators focus on shaping metal using forging presses, whereas Machinists create precise parts with various machine tools. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are popular job titles related to Forging Machine Operator jobs in Michigan? For Forging Machine Operator jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Forging Machine Operator jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Forging Machine Operator jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Forging Machine Operator jobs in MI? For Forging Machine Operator jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Forging Machine Operator job openings in Michigan as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,859 per year, or $18.2 per hour.
Lathe Operator

Lathe Operator

SMS group Inc

Taylor, MI • On-site

$23.27 - $30.43/hr

Full-time

Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Job description


Summary

A Lathe Operator will be required to set up and operate engine lathe and accessories to perform a variety of operations on rolls and other parts to meet quality assurance requirements. They will also be required to set up and operate horizontal boring mill and accessories to perform complex and precise machining for components and parts expeditiously, meeting quality assurance requirements. They will operate and know the functions of Fanuc/Mazatrol controllers, load and run CNC programs. This position will be for our night shift from 7pm to 7am.

Who we are

At SMS group, our people are our greatest asset. We offer an entrepreneurial environment that promotes a culture of innovation, growth, and inclusion. We offer company events, activities, and opportunities to participate in charitable initiatives that benefit the communities where we are located.

The right candidate will

  • Read micrometers and other measuring devices as well as blueprints
  • Calculate tolerances from blueprints and convert to/from metric/standard
  • Use precision measuring tools and record measurements and pertinent info as required
  • Follow instructions and established procedures

What you’ll need

  • 2-5 years CNC Lathe experience
  • Certification in Fanuc/Mazatrol controllers preferred
  • High School Diploma/GED
  • Valid driver's license required

What we offer

• Competitive compensation, medical/dental/vision coverage, paid vacation, paid holiday time, 401k with a company match, training, a tuition reimbursement program and more!

What we do

SMS group is the leading partner in the world of metals. We are an original equipment supplier offering comprehensive maintenance and spare part services for metals production, continuous casting and rolling (flat and long products), tubes, welded pipes, forging, non-ferrous technology, and heat treatment plants - all from a single source.

SMS group Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, gender identity or other categories protected by law. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a drug screen and physical capacity profile test.