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Forging Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

SolidWorks Expert - Remote

Chicago, IL ยท Remote

$40 - $130/hr

Casting and forging. * Assembly modeling. * CAD editing and feature tree management. * Design documentation. * Reverse engineering (Scan-to-CAD). * Manufacturability analysis. * Python, iLogic, and ...

COMBUSTION TECHNICIAN

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$26 - $35/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Monitor and optimize combustion efficiency in melt shop, forging, and heat treatment operations. * Implement fuel usage reduction initiatives and energy savings programs. * Ensure consistent heating ...

Machinist Trainee

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

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Machinist

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

Company Description Anderson Shumaker is a Chicago-based open die forging shop, proudly producing high-quality custom forgings since 1902.

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Heat Treat Furnace Operator

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$24 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

Company Description Anderson Shumaker is a Chicago-based open die forging shop, proudly producing high-quality custom forgings since 1902.

Autodesk Fusion 360 Expert - Remote

Chicago, IL ยท On-site +1

$40 - $120/hr

Apply Design for Manufacturability (DFM) principles across injection molding, sheet metal fabrication, CNC machining, casting, and forging processes. * Support AI model development by delivering ...

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Shipping & Receiving / Inspection

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

Company Description Anderson Shumaker is a Chicago-based open die forging shop, proudly producing high-quality custom forgings since 1902.

Maintenance Mechanic

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$20 - $37/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Saw Operator

Carol Stream, IL ยท On-site

$21/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Assists in the production of quality parts by providing raw materials to forging production that meet customer specifications. Essential Job Functions: * Unloads bar stock bundles from Bar Stock Rack ...

Retail Sales Associate-Naperville

Naperville, IL ยท On-site

$15 - $17.25/hr

  • Retirement

Forge lasting relationships with customers. * Work with the sales team to ensure each customer receives the best service possible. * Greet customers in a timely, authentic and engaging manner.

Industrial Electrician

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$38 - $45/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Showing results 21-40

Forging information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$17

$29

$40

How much do forging jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for forging in Chicago, IL is $29.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.05 and $32.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is forging?

Forging jobs involve shaping metal using compressive forces, often with the help of hammers, presses, or dies. Workers in forging roles are responsible for heating metal to a pliable state and then forming it into desired shapes for use in manufacturing, construction, automotive, or aerospace industries. These jobs require physical strength, attention to safety, and knowledge of metal properties. Common positions include forge operators, blacksmiths, and die setters.

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

To thrive as a Forging Technician, you need a solid understanding of metallurgy, blueprint reading, and mechanical aptitude, typically gained through vocational training or an apprenticeship. Familiarity with forging presses, furnaces, CNC machinery, and quality control systems is essential, along with relevant safety certifications. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities help ensure precision and safe operation in a demanding environment. These skills are crucial for producing high-quality forged components while maintaining safety and efficiency in manufacturing settings.

What are some common challenges faced by forging professionals and how can they be addressed in the workplace?

Forging professionals often encounter challenges such as maintaining precise temperature control, ensuring consistent product quality, and managing heavy machinery safely. These challenges are typically addressed through ongoing training, strict adherence to safety protocols, and collaboration with quality assurance teams. Many workplaces also invest in advanced monitoring equipment and encourage open communication among team members to quickly identify and resolve issues. By fostering a culture of safety and continuous improvement, forging professionals can mitigate risks and maintain high production standards.

What is the difference between Forging vs Machining?

AspectForgingMachining
Primary ProcessShaping metal through compressive forces using hammers or pressesRemoving material from a workpiece using cutting tools
Work EnvironmentFactories or workshops with heavy machineryMachine shops, manufacturing facilities, or precision labs
Required SkillsKnowledge of forging techniques, metallurgy, and equipment operationPrecision measurement, tool operation, and material removal techniques
Common CertificationsNone specific, but metallurgy knowledge beneficialMachining certifications like CNC or precision machining

Forging and machining are both essential manufacturing processes but differ significantly. Forging involves shaping metal through compressive forces, creating strong, durable parts, often in heavy industrial settings. Machining, on the other hand, removes material to achieve precise dimensions and finishes. While forging emphasizes forming and strength, machining focuses on precision and detail. Both roles require specialized skills and are vital in manufacturing industries.

What are the most commonly searched types of Forging jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Forging jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What job categories do people searching Forging jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Forging jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Forging job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,642 per year, or $29.2 per hour.

SolidWorks Expert - Remote

YO AI Labs

Chicago, IL โ€ข Remote

$40 - $130/hr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Job Title: SolidWorks Specialist

Job Type: Contractor
Location: Remote

Job Overview

We are seeking experienced SolidWorks Specialists to contribute their expertise to an innovative project at the intersection of mechanical engineering and emerging AI technology. In this role, you will help improve next-generation AI systems by creating, reviewing, and refining mechanical CAD models and technical documentation. No prior AI experience is required—your engineering and CAD expertise are what matter most.

Key Responsibilities
  • Create fully parametric 3D CAD models of mechanical parts and assemblies using SolidWorks based on detailed design requirements.

  • Edit and update existing parametric CAD models while maintaining robust feature trees, design intent, and model integrity.

  • Review and audit CAD models for dimensional accuracy, tolerance application, manufacturability, and overall design quality.

  • Apply Design for Manufacturability (DFM) principles across manufacturing processes including injection molding, sheet metal fabrication, CNC machining, casting, and forging.

  • Develop and maintain clear engineering documentation to support design revisions and AI model training.

  • Translate engineering requirements into structured CAD data suitable for AI learning and validation.

  • Collaborate remotely with cross-functional teams, providing clear written reports, technical documentation, and verbal updates.

Required Skills
  • SolidWorks.

  • Parametric CAD modeling.

  • GD&T (ASME Y14.5).

  • Design for Manufacturability (DFM).

  • Mechanical design.

  • Injection molding.

  • Sheet metal design.

  • CNC machining.

  • Casting and forging.

  • Assembly modeling.

  • CAD editing and feature tree management.

  • Design documentation.

  • Reverse engineering (Scan-to-CAD).

  • Manufacturability analysis.

  • Python, iLogic, and VBA scripting.

  • Tolerance application.

  • Project documentation.

  • Strong written and verbal communication.

  • Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

Preferred Qualifications
  • 4+ years of hands-on parametric CAD experience for editing tasks and 10+ years for creating complex assemblies.

  • Expert proficiency in SolidWorks, with experience in Autodesk Inventor, Fusion 360, or FreeCAD considered an advantage.

  • Practical experience applying GD&T in accordance with ASME Y14.5 or equivalent standards.

  • Proven experience supporting multiple manufacturing processes, including injection molding, sheet metal fabrication, CNC machining, casting, and forging.

  • Current experience in mechanical or industrial CAD modeling.

  • Reverse engineering expertise, including Scan-to-CAD and point cloud conversion workflows.

  • Experience with assembly-level design and CAD workflow automation using Python, iLogic, VBA, or similar scripting tools.

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills with strong technical documentation abilities.

Why Join Us?
  • Fully remote contractor opportunity.

  • Flexible work schedule.

  • Opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge AI technology using your mechanical engineering expertise.

  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering and AI teams on innovative technical projects.

  • No prior AI experience required—training and project guidance will be provided.