Forge Support

Pursuit Aerospace; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 19,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Pursuit Aerospace in Chicago, IL invites applications for a Forge Shop Helper to support the forging team, preparing tools, loading furnaces, handling heavy parts, and maintaining a clean, safe work area.

You will work with the Smith, follow safety protocols, participate in training, and contribute to high-quality forging processes in a fast-paced industrial setting. This onsite role requires reliability and physical stamina.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED or 4+ years in an industrial/agricultural setting.
• Authorized to work in the U.S. on a full-time basis; no sponsorship needed.
• Ability to perform work under ITAR/EAR regulations.

Responsibilities

• Assist forge crew by gathering tools, loading furnaces, and handling heavy parts.
• Assist the Smith with lighting furnaces, setting temps, and grinding surfaces as needed.
• Inspect forged products and report defects to supervisor.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area per safety protocols.
• Participate in required training and cross-training initiatives.

Skills

ITAR/EAR compliance

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Basic hand tools

Gauges

Production equipment

Job description

About Us:

Founded on a commitment to relentless, continuous operational improvement and extraordinary customer service, we at Pursuit Aerospace pride ourselves on competitive cost structures, exceptional on-time delivery, and industry-leading quality.

The Pursuit family of companies has cultivated long-term relationships with our customers around the world through respect, teamwork, technology, and trust. We are driven to develop industry-leading process innovations and manufacturing techniques on behalf of our customers.

About the Opportunity:

Join a skilled team at our operation located in Chicago, IL, as a Forge Shop Helper. This hands‑on role supports the heart of our production crew, working closely with the Smith to ensure safe, efficient, and high‑quality forging processes. As a Helper, you'll play a key role in preparing tools, loading furnaces, handling heavy parts, and maintaining a clean, organized work area. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who thrives in a fast‑paced industrial environment, is eager to learn, and wants to grow their skills in a critical manufacturing operation. If you're dependable, safety-conscious, and ready to contribute to a legacy of precision and performance, we'd love to meet you.

Responsibilities:

• Support forge crew operations by gathering tools, loading furnaces, and handling hot forgings and heavy parts.
• Assist the Smith with various production tasks, including lighting the furnace, setting temperatures, and grinding surfaces as needed.
• Visually inspect forged products and promptly report any defects or concerns to the Smith or supervisor.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area in compliance with safety protocols.
• Participate in required training to build and maintain job-related skills.
• Return all tools, gauges, and parts to their proper storage locations after use.
• Communicate effectively with team members and supervisors regarding work progress, safety concerns, and improvement opportunities.
• Follow all written and verbal instructions accurately to support production quality and efficiency.
• Actively engage in cross‑training and improvement initiatives to enhance team performance and personal development.
• Report equipment performance issues to the supervisor to ensure timely maintenance or repair.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to meet production and quality goals.

Required Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or GED OR at least 4 years experience in an industrial or agricultural setting.
• Must be authorized to work in the U.S. on a full‑time bases without sponsorship now or in the future. The Company cannot offer employment to visa holders who require employer sponsorship in the future or cannot work now on a full‑time basis.
• Must be able to perform work subject to ITAR/EAR regulations.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous experience working in a forge shop or heavy industrial manufacturing environment.
• Familiarity with basic hand tools, gauges, and production equipment.
• Experience handling hot materials and operating around furnaces.
• Basic understanding of safety practices, including Lock-out/Tag-out and use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Ability to read and interpret shop orders and basic technical instructions.
• Demonstrated reliability and a strong work ethic in a physically demanding role.

Minimum Physical Requirements (with or without reasonable accommodation):

• Ability to stand, walk, and use hands for extended periods.
• Ability to regularly lift and move objects up to 70 pounds.
• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with exposure to heat, noise, and industrial materials.
• Sufficient vision and hearing to perform job duties safely.

Compensation & Benefits:

This is a full‑time position with a competitive wage. We offer a competitive benefit package. Must be willing and able to work onsite full‑time in Chicago, IL. This position is not eligible for relocation.

Acknowledgements:

The above job description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of duties and standards of the position. Incumbents will follow any other instructions, and perform any other related duties, as assigned by their supervisor.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

Pursuit Aerospace is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We adhere to all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.