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Metal Processing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Metal Processing Lead

Elmwood, LA · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Shop Lead and Lead Machine Operator (Metal Processing) Company: Metal Supermarkets Location: 5820 Plauche St, Elmwood, LA 70123 (Harahan/Elmwood area) Employment Type: Full-Time (Mon-Fri ...

Metal Processing Lead

Elmwood, LA · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Shop Lead and Lead Machine Operator (Metal Processing) Company: Metal Supermarkets Location: 5820 Plauche St, Elmwood, LA 70123 (Harahan/Elmwood area) Employment Type: Full-Time (Mon-Fri ...

Snyders Metal Processing is a metal recycling facility. We mainly focus on Non-ferrous metal. We purchase, package and sell scrap metal to Mills and other processors to be refined back to reusable ...

Snyders Metal Processing is a metal recycling facility. We mainly focus on Non-ferrous metal. We purchase, package and sell scrap metal to Mills and other processors to be refined back to reusable ...

Mig/Tig Welders

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$20 - $28/hr

Operates welding equipment to join metal components together using processes such as gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW), also known as tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding and gas metal arc welding (GMAW ...

Tig Welder

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$20 - $25.75/hr

Operates welding equipment to join metal components together using processes such as gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW), also known as tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding and gas metal arc welding (GMAW ...

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Metal Processing information

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$8

$16

$25

How much do metal processing jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for metal processing in the United States is $16.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is metal processing?

Metal processing refers to the techniques and methods used to shape, treat, and fabricate metals into usable products or components. This field includes operations such as casting, forging, machining, welding, and heat treatment. Metal processing is essential in industries like automotive, construction, aerospace, and manufacturing, as it transforms raw metal materials into finished goods. Skilled workers use specialized equipment and knowledge to ensure quality and precision throughout the process.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in metal processing, and why are they important?

To thrive in metal processing, you need a solid understanding of metallurgy, mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with CNC machines, welding equipment, and safety protocols is typically required, as are certifications like OSHA or AWS. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork are critical soft skills in this field. These skills ensure safe operations, high-quality production, and efficient workflow in demanding industrial environments.

What are some common challenges faced in a metal processing role, and how can new employees prepare for them?

Metal processing roles often involve working with heavy machinery, precise measurements, and strict safety protocols. New employees may find it challenging to adapt to the physical demands and the need for attention to detail in maintaining product quality. To prepare, it's helpful to familiarize yourself with safety guidelines, seek hands-on training, and develop a strong understanding of the specific equipment used in your facility. Building good communication skills is also important, as you'll often collaborate with team members to troubleshoot issues and ensure smooth workflow.

What is the difference between Metal Processing vs Metal Fabrication?

AspectMetal ProcessingMetal Fabrication
Primary FocusTransforming raw metals through processes like casting, forging, and heat treatmentCutting, shaping, and assembling metal parts into finished products
Skills & CertificationsKnowledge of metallurgy, welding certifications, machinery operationWelding, cutting, blueprint reading, machining skills
Work EnvironmentFactories, foundries, metal plantsWorkshops, manufacturing plants, construction sites
Industry UsageHeavy industry, metal production, manufacturingConstruction, automotive, appliance manufacturing

While both Metal Processing and Metal Fabrication involve working with metals, Metal Processing focuses on transforming raw metals into usable forms through various treatments, whereas Metal Fabrication involves shaping and assembling metal parts into final products. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus within the metal industry.

What does metal processing do?

Metal processing involves transforming raw metal materials into finished products through techniques such as cutting, shaping, heat treating, and finishing. Workers in this field operate machinery like presses and grinders, often requiring knowledge of safety protocols and quality standards to ensure precise and durable results.
More about Metal Processing jobs

What cities are hiring for Metal Processing jobs?

Cities with the most Metal Processing job openings:

What job categories do people searching Metal Processing jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Metal Processing jobs are:

Infographic showing various Metal Processing job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,822 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

Metal Processing Lead

Metal Supermarkets

Elmwood, LA • On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Run shift kickoffs, prioritize customer orders, assign shop tasks, and ensure safe and efficient production.

  • Operate industrial cutting tools such as hydraulic shears, cold saws, band saws, and forklifts.

  • Measure and inspect custom metal cuts using tape measures, calipers, and decimals to ensure 100% accuracy.


Metal Supermarkets rating

5.4

Company rating: 5.4 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Shop Lead and Lead Machine Operator (Metal Processing)

Company: Metal Supermarkets

Location: 5820 Plauche St, Elmwood, LA 70123 (Harahan/Elmwood area)

Employment Type: Full-Time (Mon–Fri)

Compensation: $20.00 to 23.00 / hr + bonus potential (Depending on Experience)

License Requirement: Valid Louisiana Class D Driver’s License Required (or ability to obtain)

WHY JOIN METAL SUPERMARKETS?

• Steady Schedule: Full-time, Monday – Friday day shift

• Reliable Income: Hourly pay + overtime and bonus opportunities.

• Comprehensive Benefits: Health insurance, 401(k) with company match, paid time off (PTO), and paid training.

• Growth Potential: Hands-on leadership training in a fast-growing, essential industry.

THE ROLE

Looking for a hands-on lead role where your shop skills and leadership matter? Metal Supermarkets New Orleans is hiring a Shop Lead / Lead Machine Operator to run daily shop floor operations, cut metal orders to precision customer specs, and lead a safety-focused shop team.

WHAT YOU'LL DO

• Lead Daily Operations: Run shift kickoffs, prioritize customer orders, assign shop tasks, and keep production moving safely and efficiently.

• Metal Cutting & Equipment: Operate industrial cutting tools (hydraulic shears, cold saws, band saws, forklifts).

• Precision & Quality: Measure and inspect custom cuts using tape measures, calipers, and decimals to ensure 100% accuracy.

• Local Deliveries (Backup): Drive our local 21' flatbed truck for client deliveries when needed.

• Team Safety & Training: Mentor team members on equipment safety and shop best practices.

WHAT WE LOOK FOR

• 2+ years of experience in machine operation, metal fabrication, carpentry, warehouse leadership, or military logistics/maintenance.

• Ability to accurately read tape measures, fractions, decimals, and calipers.

• Valid Driver’s License (Louisiana Class D Chauffeur license required—we will assist/reimburse you in upgrading if needed).

• Ability to lift up to 60 lbs unassisted and stay active on the shop floor.

• Strong communication and a lead-by-example work ethic.

How to Apply

Click Apply Now to submit your resume highlighting your machinery, shop, or supervisory experience.

Have you always had a natural way with people? Do you love to help? Are you good with your hands and value great customer service? Do you think “yes” before “no?” Are you solutions driven and take pride in customer satisfaction? These traits could make you the perfect fit for a job with variety and great compensation in a stable industry with a rapidly expanding organization.
Metal Supermarkets is the world’s largest supplier of small-quantity metals with stores across the U.S., Canada, and the U.K. We sell a variety of metal products and cutting services to businesses and consumers. Our customers love us because of our outstanding customer service. We’re fast, friendly, convenient and knowledgeable. We’re passionate about service.


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