Hot Forging Press Technician (Die Setup & Operations)

Job Description

Job Description

Step Into the Heat: A Day in the Life

You fire up the forge cell, retrieve preheated dies, and align the setup per the sheet. With the ram dialed in, you lift glowing billets with tongs, set them precisely into the die, and cycle the press to create high-integrity parts for fittings, valves, and tubing systems. You inspect to print using micrometers and calipers, run the trim press when needed, and keep the furnace on spec. In between runs, you complete quick PMs, sustain 5S, and log data on the PC. You move materials with a forklift, verify billet color/heat, and collaborate with teammates to drive continuous improvement—safely, every time.

Who We Are

SSP is the largest single-site, vertically integrated supplier of fittings, valves, and tubing systems—100 years strong and still innovating. As a third-generation, privately owned company and recognized Top Workplace, we invest in people, technology, and safe, efficient processes. Our TRUE values—Truthfulness, Resourcefulness, Unity, and Execution—shape our culture and your career growth.

What You’ll Do

• Set up and operate a forging press: change top/bottom dies, back plates, and shims per setup sheet.
• Adjust ram settings as required for quality and repeatability.
• Collect dies from the pre-heat bench and stage tooling.
• Operate the forge press and trim press; start up and run rotary and slot furnaces.
• Handle hot billets with tongs; visually verify billet color and heat, and align billets into dies.
• Inspect forged parts to print using micrometers, calipers, and gauges.
• Perform press and furnace PM tasks; sustain 5S and Lean/CI improvements.
• Operate a forklift for material movements; follow all safety policies and procedures.
• Operate a 130 mechanical forge trim press as needed.
• Complete other duties as assigned by the Supervisor.

What You Bring

• Hands-on knowledge of forging press setup and operations; familiarity with trim press setup/operation.
• Ability to use forge setup sheets; read basic blueprints; enter and retrieve data on a PC.
• Experience benching dies and using hand tools (e.g., air grinders).
• Startup/operation of rotary and slot furnaces; understanding of basic PM on these furnaces.
• Basic measurement skills with micrometers and calipers; solid shop math.
• Working knowledge of forge safety requirements and ISO quality/Lean Standard Work.
• Team-oriented mindset and clear communication.
• Forklift operator certification (or ability to obtain).

Work Environment

• Manufacturing/shop setting with high temperatures—billets up to ~2300&degree;F; summer room temps may exceed 90&degree;F.
• Frequent standing/walking (often 10+ hours) and lifting/moving 50+ lbs.
• Use of electrical and pneumatic hand tools; handling extremely hot metal billets with tools.
• Required forklift operation certification.

Education & Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED preferred (not required).
• Trade school (approximately 2 years) preferred (not required).
• Manufacturing experience (around 2 years preferred); forging experience not required.
• 3+ years setting up and operating forging presses preferred.

Why SSP

We prioritize your well-being and growth with benefits that support every aspect of life:

• Comprehensive Medical Coverage: Medical, dental, vision, accident, and company-paid life insurance.
• Generous Time Off: PTO and paid holidays.
• Flexible Scheduling: Compressed work week options.
• Profit Sharing: Annual bonus recognizing your impact.
• On-Site Healthcare: Free access to Cleveland Clinic services for all employees.
• Wellness: On-site wellness coach, fitness center, and gym reimbursement.
• Convenience: On-site market with fresh food and beverages.
• Work Perks: Shoe reimbursement, milestone rewards, engagement events (picnics, holiday luncheons, Thanksgiving turkeys).
• Retirement: 401k/Roth with company match and 100% vesting after 90 days.
• Child Care Discounts: 10% off at any KinderCare location.

Proficiencies

• Skid Steer Operation
• Troubleshooting Skills
• Material Handler Experience
• Heavy Material Handling
• Metal Stamping & Forming (Progressive Die)
• Metal Casting Experience

Machines & Technologies You’ll Use

• Punch Press
• Stamping Press
• Laser Punch Press

AAP/EEO Statement

It is the employer’s policy that equal employment opportunities be available to all employees and applicants without regard to race, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), age, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, military or veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other status protected by federal, state or local law.