Occupation Description

Blacksmiths are specialist engineering fabrication tradespersons. Engineering fabrication tradespeople cut, shape, join and finish metal to make, repair or maintain a variety of metal structures products. Blacksmiths work in the cast metals sector (and sometimes in heavy machinery and equipment). Blacksmiths produce or repair metal articles such as agricultural equipment, mining and quarrying machinery, or ornamental steelwork such as gates and fences.

Blacksmiths may…

Blacksmiths can specialise in forge-smithing, hammer-smithing and tool-smithing.

Personal Requirements

You should

Environment

Blacksmiths work in workshops or production areas that can be hot, noisy, and dirty, however the work environments are generally spacious, ventilated and well lit. Their work is very physical and the majority of their work time is spent standing.

Blacksmiths may work in a team or alone and because of the nature of their work safety awareness and compliance with regulations is important. They must be aware of safety regulations and must wear supplied protective equipment.

Training

To work as a blacksmith you will usually require a Certificate III in Engineering (Fabrication Trade).

You can work at even higher levels within this occupation and sector. Blacksmiths can with experience, and possibly further training, work in more supervisory and technical occupations and even at a par-professional level assisting engineers.

Of course you can continue to progress further along a career pathway that could see you in a number of senior management positions.

Certificate III in Engineering (Fabrication Trade)

Earnings, Job and Employment Prospects

For detailed information about earnings, job and employment prospects for this occupation, go to the Australian JobSearch Careers page and click on Job Outlook .

Printed Resources

The INFOSHEET PDFs provide information about the Manufacturing Industry and its various sectors and occupations. To view and print these documents click RESOURCES (you will need to have Adobe Reader ® installed).

Where Can I Go From This Job?

To find out more about potential Manufacturing career possibilities click PATHWAYS.