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Metalsmithing Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Metalsmithing information

See Oregon salary details

$12

$18

$25

How much do metalsmithing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for metalsmithing in Oregon is $18.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.76 and $20.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are metalsmiths in demand?

Metalsmithing is a specialized craft with steady demand in areas such as jewelry making, art, and custom metalwork. Opportunities often depend on local markets, craftsmanship skills, and the ability to sell through galleries, shops, or online platforms.

What can I do with a metalsmithing degree?

A metalsmithing degree prepares individuals for careers as jewelry designers, goldsmiths, or metal artisans, involving skills in metalworking, design, and craftsmanship. Graduates can work in studios, manufacturing, or galleries, often using tools like torches and hammers, and may pursue certifications to enhance employment opportunities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in metalsmithing?

To thrive in metalsmithing, you need proficiency in metalworking techniques such as forging, soldering, welding, and fabrication, usually supported by vocational training or an apprenticeship. Familiarity with hand tools, power equipment, and safety certifications like OSHA are commonly required in this field. Attention to detail, creativity, and problem-solving skills enable metalsmiths to create intricate designs and resolve production challenges. These abilities are essential to ensure high-quality craftsmanship, workplace safety, and effective collaboration on custom or production-based projects.

What is metalsmithing?

A metalsmithing job involves shaping, cutting, and joining metal to create functional or decorative objects such as jewelry, sculptures, or tools. Metalsmiths work with various materials like copper, silver, brass, and steel, using techniques such as forging, soldering, and casting. They may work in industries like jewelry design, blacksmithing, or metal fabrication. Skilled metalsmiths often combine artistic creativity with technical expertise to produce unique and high-quality metalwork.

What does a metalsmith make?

A metalsmith creates objects from metal, including jewelry, sculptures, tools, and decorative items. They use skills such as soldering, forging, and polishing, often working with materials like silver, gold, copper, and steel in a workshop setting.

What do I need to start metalsmithing?

To start metalsmithing, you need basic tools such as hammers, pliers, files, and a work surface, along with safety equipment like goggles and gloves. Knowledge of metal properties and techniques such as soldering, shaping, and polishing is essential, and many practitioners begin with beginner classes or tutorials to develop skills.

What does a typical day look like for someone working in metalsmithing?

A typical day for a metalsmith often involves interpreting design specifications, selecting appropriate materials, and shaping metal through techniques like cutting, hammering, or welding. You may work independently or as part of a small team, especially if creating custom pieces or handling repairs. Collaboration with designers, clients, or other artisans is common to ensure finished products meet the desired standards. Attention to both artistic detail and safety protocols is crucial throughout the process, making the role varied, hands-on, and rewarding for those who enjoy working with their hands.

What job categories do people searching Metalsmithing jobs in Oregon look for? The top searched job categories for Metalsmithing jobs in Oregon are:
Infographic showing various Metalsmithing job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,768 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Visiting Assistant Professor in Art & Technology

University of Oregon

Eugene, OR • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


University Of Oregon rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

383rd of 616 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Visiting Assistant Professor in Art & Technology
Job no: 536647
Work type: Faculty - Other
Location: Eugene, OR
Categories: Architecture/Art/Design, Arts/Theater/Museum
Department: DSGN School of Art + Design
Rank: Assistant Professor
Annual Basis: 9 Month
Review of Applications Begins
July 21, 2026; position open until filled
Special Instructions to Applicants
• Resume/CV
• Cover letter that describes how your experience aligns with the requirements of the position
• Portfolio that includes 20 images of creative work
• Names and contact information for three professional references
If you have questions or would like to request a copy of the full position description, please email CBSOHR@uoregon.edu.
Department Summary
The Department of Art is part of the School of Art + Design (along with Product Design) within the College of Design (which includes the School of Planning, Public Policy, and Management, the School of Architecture & Environment, and the Department of the History of Art and Architecture). The Art Department offers BA/BS/BFA and MFA degrees, with curriculum in ceramics, art & technology, fibers, sculpture, metalsmithing and jewelry, printmaking, painting, and photography. The department has 19 tenure-related faculty, 13 instructors approximately 20 graduate students, 550 undergraduate majors, and serves many non-majors.
The University of Oregon is the flagship institution of higher learning in Oregon and enrolls more than 20,000 undergraduate and 3,600 graduate students. The UO's 295-acre campus features state-of-the-art facilities in an arboretum-like setting within the traditional homelands of the Kalapuya people. The UO is located in Eugene, a vibrant city of 168,000 within easy driving distance of the Pacific Coast, the Cascade Mountains, and Portland.
Position Summary
The Visiting Assistant Professor in Art & Technology will assume teaching responsibilities at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. The position includes teaching 6 courses (in a 3-term quarter system) and sharing BFA and MFA teaching responsibilities. Courses to be taught include lower-division and upper-division Art & Technology courses, and independent studies with BFA and MFA students. The position will also include shared responsibilities for oversight in the program and departmental service. Visiting faculty are expected to be on campus and participate in a full range of departmental activities.
Minimum Requirements
Assistant Professor (Visiting):
• MFA degree or equivalent terminal degree
• 5 years professional experience
• A documented record of recent creative work, demonstrated through a professional or scholarly portfolio, that provides evidence of ongoing creative production such as exhibitions, screenings, publications, or comparable professional outputs.
• Visiting faculty must hold a like or relevant position at another institution OR have recently obtained a terminal degree.
Professional Competencies
• A strong understanding of Art & Technology practices in the expanded field
• Ability to communicate complex ideas effectively and facilitate student learning
• Ability to conduct independent, high-quality scholarship or creative practice
Preferred Qualifications
• A strong understanding of Art & Technology practices in the expanded field
• Ability to communicate complex ideas effectively and facilitate student learning
Ability to conduct independent, high-quality scholarship or creative practice
All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a background check.
The University of Oregon is proud to offer a robust benefits package to eligible employees, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. For more information about benefits, visit our website.
The University of Oregon is an equal-opportunity institution committed to cultural diversity and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The University encourages all qualified individuals to apply and does not discriminate on the basis of any protected status, including veteran and disability status. The University is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. To request an accommodation in connection with the application process, please email us or call 541-346-5112.
UO prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy (including pregnancy-related conditions), age, physical or mental disability, genetic information (including family medical history), ancestry, familial status, citizenship, service in the uniformed services (as defined in federal and state law), veteran status, expunged juvenile record, and/or the use of leave protected by state or federal law in all programs, activities and employment practices as required by Title IX, other applicable laws, and policies. Retaliation is prohibited by UO policy. Questions may be referred to the Office of Equal Opportunity and Access. Contact information, related policies, and complaint procedures are listed here.
In compliance with federal law, the University of Oregon prepares an annual report on campus security and fire safety programs and services. The Annual Campus Security and Fire Safety Report is available online.
Advertised: June 30, 2026 Pacific Daylight Time
Applications close:

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