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How much does a Metalworking Machine Operator make in Calgary, Alberta?

Metalworking Machine Operator in Calgary – $45,157 to $86,549 annually.

Average base salary

$27.93 /hour

Pays below Calgary Average Weekly : $1,117 Monthly : $4,841 Yearly : $58,094

National Average $25.00 /hour Salary & tax breakdown

Average cost of living

$3,705 /month

for a single person who rents in Calgary

Cost of living breakdown

Last Updated: November 19, 2025

What does a Metalworking Machine Operator do?

As a Metalworking Machine Operator, you'll be at the heart of creating essential metal parts and products that power industries and build communities. You'll operate machines that shape and form metal, whether it's light sheet metal or heavy steel, into precise components. Your work ensures the strength and durability of everything from everyday items to massive structures. You'll find opportunities in diverse settings like sheet metal shops, structural steel fabrication, and even shipbuilding, where your skills will help shape the future.

Related Skills:

Attention to Detail Equipment Maintenance Physical Stamina Troubleshooting Material Handling Show all skills (12)

Core Skills

Attention to Detail Blueprint Reading Documentation Skills

Technical Skills

Equipment Maintenance Machine Operation Metal Shaping Welding Techniques

Foundational Skills

Physical Stamina Safety Procedures

Analytical Skills

Troubleshooting

Resource Management

Material Handling

Interpersonal Skills

Team Collaboration

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Metalworking Machine Operator's jobs in Calgary, Alberta.

Metalworking Machine Operator jobs in Calgary, Alberta

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Fabrication and Assembly Production Support

S3 Group Ltd.

Medicine Hat, AB

Full-time

23 days ago

Wire Wrap Operator - Nightshift

Forum Canada, ULC

Leduc, AB

Full-time

25 days ago

Shop QA/QC

Alstar Group

Calgary, AB

Full-time

19 days ago

Highest paying cities for Metalworking Machine Operator

Calgary, AB

$58,094 per year

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Edmonton, AB

$57,387 per year

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Prince Albert, SK

$51,168 per year

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Williams Lake, BC

$63,669 per year

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Selkirk, MB

$48,131 per year

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Winnipeg, MB

$45,240 per year

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London, ON

$52,000 per year

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Saint, Sauveur, QC

$57,408 per year

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How much do similar professions as Metalworking Machine Operator get paid in Alberta?

No similar job data available.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the primary responsibilities of metalworking and forging machine operators?

Metalworking and forging machine operators are responsible for operating machines that shape and form metal into parts or products. This includes reading specifications, setting up machines, and performing operations such as cutting, bending, welding, and forging. They also check products for accuracy, troubleshoot issues, and perform minor repairs.

What is the typical salary range for metalworking and forging machine operators?

The typical salary range for metalworking and forging machine operators is $21.71 – $41.61.

What skills are essential for a career as a metalworking or forging machine operator?

Essential skills for this career include attention to detail, blueprint reading, documentation skills, equipment maintenance, machine operation, material handling, metal shaping, physical stamina, safety procedures, team collaboration, troubleshooting, and welding techniques.

What educational background is required to become a metalworking or forging machine operator?

Completion of secondary school education may be required. Additionally, previous experience as a laborer or helper in the same company may be beneficial. On-the-job training is usually provided.

In which industries are metalworking and forging machine operators typically employed?

Metalworking and forging machine operators are employed in industries such as sheet metal products manufacturing, structural steel fabrication, boiler and platework manufacturing, heavy machinery manufacturing, shipbuilding, and transportation equipment manufacturing.

What is the job outlook for metalworking and forging machine operators?

The job outlook for metalworking and forging machine operators is stable, with opportunities for progression to positions such as blacksmith, die setting, structural metal fabricator, or supervisory roles with experience.

Is there potential for salary growth in this field?

Yes, there is potential for salary growth in this field, especially as operators gain experience and move into more advanced or supervisory positions.

Can metalworking and forging machine operators work remotely?

Due to the hands-on nature of the work, metalworking and forging machine operators typically cannot work remotely. Their tasks require physical presence to operate machinery and handle materials.

What is the population of Calgary, Alberta?

Calgary has a population of 1,306,784 as of 2021, which represents a 6% increase since 2016. [ Explore demographics in Calgary, Alberta ]

What is the average income in Calgary?

The average employment income in 2020 was $60,450, while the median for full-time, full-year workers was $72,500. [ Explore demographics in Calgary, Alberta ]

What are housing costs like in Calgary?

The median monthly shelter cost for owned dwellings is $1,720, compared to $1,350 for rented dwellings. [ Explore demographics in Calgary, Alberta ]

What is the unemployment rate in Calgary?

The unemployment rate in 2021 was 12.5%. [ Explore demographics in Calgary, Alberta ]

How many people in Calgary own their home?

68.8% of households in Calgary are owner-occupied, while 31.2% are renters. [ Explore demographics in Calgary, Alberta ]

20,000 Canadian salary reported, updated November 19, 2025 (data source: open.canada.ca).