Blacksmith I (Non Welding Position) in East Peoria, Illinois at Manufacturing Maintenance Solutions Inc

Pay: $30.00 - $35.00 per hour (Depending on Experience)
Schedule: Monday-Friday, 6:00 AM - 2:30 PM
Location: East Peoria, IL

Are you an experienced blacksmith who takes pride in craftsmanship and quality work? We are seeking a skilled Blacksmith I to join our team in East Peoria, IL. This position is ideal for someone with hands-on blacksmithing and metalworking experience who enjoys working with traditional forging techniques while producing and repairing high-quality metal components.

Important: Candidates must be able to gain access to Caterpillar facilities and successfully meet all site access requirements.

Your day starts early as you prepare your work area, inspect tools and equipment, and review the day's production needs. Throughout the shift, you'll heat, forge, shape, bend, and finish a variety of metal components using traditional blacksmithing techniques and specialized tooling.

You'll work from drawings, measurements, and specifications to ensure quality craftsmanship while collaborating with fellow team members to meet production schedules. Along the way, you'll inspect finished products, make precision adjustments, perform minor equipment maintenance, and maintain a safe, organized workspace.

This is a hands-on role that rewards attention to detail, craftsmanship, and a strong work ethic.

• Forge, shape, and finish metal products and components using traditional blacksmithing techniques
• Operate anvils, hammers, presses, grinders, and other blacksmithing equipment
• Measure, cut, and prepare materials to meet specifications
• Read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and work instructions
• Inspect finished products to ensure quality and dimensional accuracy
• Troubleshoot and adjust processes to achieve desired results
• Maintain blacksmithing tools, equipment, and work areas
• Follow all safety procedures and properly utilize required PPE
• Assist in training and mentoring less experienced team members
• Work closely with team members to meet production and quality expectations
• Maintain a clean and organized work environment

Note: This position requires blacksmithing and metalworking experience. No welding in this role.

• High school diploma or GED
• Previous blacksmithing, forging, or metalworking experience
• Ability to safely use hand tools, power tools, and blacksmithing equipment
• Strong understanding of metal properties and forging processes
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and specifications
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality craftsmanship
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and stand for extended periods
• Ability to work in a hot, noisy, and physically demanding environment
• Strong safety mindset and commitment to safe work practices
• Must be able to obtain access to Caterpillar facilities

• Experience working in an industrial, manufacturing, or production environment
• Blacksmith apprenticeship or formal metalworking training
• Experience with precision measuring tools such as calipers and tape measures
• Mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills
• Experience mentoring or training others
• Understanding of forging dies, fixtures, and production processes

• Blacksmithing and forging expertise
• Knowledge of metal types and material properties
• Blueprint and drawing interpretation
• Quality craftsmanship
• Attention to detail
• Safety awareness
• Problem-solving abilities
• Teamwork and communication
• Dependability and strong work ethic
• Continuous learning and skill development

• Industrial manufacturing environment
• Exposure to heat, noise, and physically demanding work
• Frequent standing, lifting, bending, and material handling
• Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE)