Metal parts, products and structures find applications in nearly every advanced manufacturing sector.

Metalworking and Forging Machine Operators cut, bend, shear and shape metals by using equipment and techniques, such as cold pressing and electric arc cutting. They work in a multitude of setting within manufacturing, including shipbuilding, structural metal, boiler making and platework manufacturing. Demand exists for Metalworking and Forging Machine Operators, with over 600 jobs being created in the automotive sector for them over the next 10 years.

Where do Metalworking and Forging Machine Operators work?

What do Metalworking and Forging Machine Operators do?

Metalworking and Forging Machine Operators use machinery and hand tools to perform various metal shaping operations, as well as calibrate and maintain equipment they regularly use. Below are common tasks that Metalworking and Forging Machine Operators perform:

• Lay out, set up and operate one or more light or heavy metalworking machines such as shears, power presses, computer numerically controlled systems and other equipment and hand tools to shape metal stock into parts and products
• Troubleshoot and perform corrective action or minor repairs
• Operate machines or equipment which weld, solder, bolt, screw or rivet metal parts together
• May clean or lubricate equipment and replace parts as required
• Check products for correct shapes, dimensions and other specifications

Career pathways & potential earnings of Metalworking Machine Operators

Metalworking and Forging Machine Operators can progress to other roles and positions with the adequate experience and skills:

Metalworking and Forging Machine Operators also apply their skills and expertise in other occupations such as the following:

• Structural Metal and Plate-Work Fabricators and Fitters
• Plastics Processing Machine Operators

How do I become a Metalworking and Forging Machine Operators?

There are limited educational, licensing and training requirements to become a Metalworking and Forging Machine Operator. Some requirements may vary by province or company. Below are the most commonly required qualifications to work as a Metalworking and Forging Machine Operator:

• Minimum Education: Completion of high school may be required.
• Training and other requirements: Experience as a labourer or helper in the same company may be required. On-the-job training is usually provided by employers.

What are the most important skills to have as a Forging Machine Operator?

Most of the necessary skills for succeeding in a role as a Metalworking and Forging Machine Operator will be acquired acquired as experience is accumulated on the job, as it is an entry level manufacturing position. The following are important skills they will learn, and should possess:

Technical Knowledge and Skills

• Operation and Control
• Operations Monitoring
• Computer Numerically Controlled Systems
• Equipment Maintenance
• Computer-Aided Design Software
• Quality Control Analysis

Soft Skills

• Time Management
• Written and Oral Comprehension
• Perceptual Speed
• Troubleshooting
• Manual Dexterity

Future of Metalworking and Forging Machine Operators jobs in Canada

The job market for Metalworking and Forging Machine Operators in Canada is promising. In 2021, more than 10,000 operators were employed across Canada’s sectors and industries. FOCAL projects 640 job openings for Metalworking and Forging Machine Operators in Canada’s automotive manufacturing sector between 2021 and 2030. FOCAL also forecasts that during the same period, nearly 500 workers are needed to fill recruitment gap in the sector.

Learn more about the job market for metalworking and forging machine operation, as well as about many other developments and new technologies in Canada’s automotive manufacturing by visiting our website futureautolabourforce.ca. You can also check our social media by following these links: LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.