Forge Operator

Job Title: Forge Operator

Department: 1018 - Forging

Location: High Bridge, NJ

*All candidates will be tested to ensure accurate placement in the team structure*

Forge Operator Level 1 (Entry-Level) $25-29 (2^nd Shift earns additional 10% differential)

Operates entry-level machinery and assists senior smiths in forging large-scale metal components. Focuses on material preparation, basic equipment operation, and learning safe handling of heavy parts.

• Load raw ingots and billets into heating furnaces.
• Track furnace temperatures to ensure metal reaches proper forging heat.
• Run basic mechanical presses and auxiliary equipment under close supervisor.
• Operate forklifts to move raw materials and finished parts.
• Experience: Basic blueprint reading, measuring tools, forklift experience, and following instructions.

Forge Operator Level 2 (Intermediate) $30-34 (2^nd Shift earns additional 10% differential)

Sets up and operates heavy open-die or closed-die forging presses. Operates specialized heavy material handling equipment under minimal supervision.

• Setup and operate heavy hydraulic forging presses independently.
• Drive large-capacity forklifts and specialized forging manipulators to rotate heavy pieces.
• Interpret blueprints, work orders, and engineering drawings to meet dimensional specs.
• Use large calipers, micrometers, and gauges to check dimensions.
• Align, install, and shim forging dies and toolings.
• Guide and train Forge Operator 1 team members in safe work practices.
• Experience: 2-5 years; works under moderate supervision.

Forge Operator Level 3 (Senior / Lead) $35+ (2^nd Shift earns additional 10% differential)

Directs the forging crew during large-scale operations. Serves as the technical expert for complex, high-value metal forming projects.

• Sequence complex multi-step forging operations for massive, custom components.
• Execute highly technical maneuvers using heavy manipulators for tight-tolerance forging.
• Identify thermal or structural defects and ensure metallurgical requirements are met.
• Oversee preventative maintenance on presses, furnaces, and heavy handling feelts.
• Acts as the shop floor supervision, assigning tasks and enforcing production schedules.
• Experience: 5+ years of large scale heavy forging experience.

Core Competencies Across All Levels:

• Schedule: First Shift 5/6am-3:30pm, Second Shift 3:30pm – 1/2am
• 40+ hours per week; with average overtime ranging from 5-15 hours weekly.
• Adherence to safety protocols.
• Use of precision instruments (micrometers, calipers)
• Ability to read blueprints and technical specifications.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands and fingers to handle or feel and talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to sit. The employee is occasionally required to walk; reach with hands and arms and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee is occasionally required to lift up to 100 pounds. The vision requirements include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The noise level in the work environment can vary.

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. Person: U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., or protected individual as defined by ITAR (22 CFR §120.15).

Offers of employment are contingent on and not considered finalized until the required background check and drug test has been performed and the results received and have been accessed.

About Forged Solutions Group- Custom Alloy Division

Forged Solutions Group, Inc. is a global provider of high specification forgings for the aerospace, defense, and space end markets. Our Custom Alloy division in High Bridge, NJ, specializes in manufacturing high-quality seamless and welded pipe and tube solutions, as well as custom fabrications for critical applications. We serve government and commercial clients. As a Level 1 qualified U.S. Navy manufacturer for nuclear forgings and fittings, CAC is a critical supplier to the naval supply chain for key subsurface and surface programs. For commercial clients, we provide custom-engineered solutions across various industries. This dual focus allows us to take on diverse, high-pressure projects. Unlike mass production facilities, we create large, custom fittings tailored to specific needs. Our plant features large machines for heavy-duty work in a traditional manufacturing environment. It can be hot, cold, or dirty, but we prioritize safety and provide tools and training to ensure success.

Forged Solutions Group offers a comprehensive benefit package which includes:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 401K
• Paid Time Off
• 10 Paid Holidays
• Safety shoe reimbursement, $200 per year
• Prescription safety glasses program
• Voluntary Supplemental Insurance
• Company Paid Life Insurance
• Voluntary Life Insurance
• Paid training and development opportunities
• Employee referral program