Bench Pin
A bench pin is a basic but essential tool in jewelry making that serves as a support surface for detailed work. Think of it as a jeweler's workbench extension - it's a wooden or metal attachment that extends from the jeweler's workbench where they do most of their detailed work like sawing, filing, and shaping metal. It's similar to how a seamstress needs a sewing table or a chef needs a cutting board. When you see this term in a resume, it indicates that the candidate has hands-on experience with traditional jewelry making techniques and bench work.
Examples in Resumes
Performed intricate metal work using Bench Pin techniques for custom jewelry pieces
Trained apprentice jewelers in proper Bench Pin setup and safety procedures
Created over 200 custom rings utilizing Bench Pin and traditional fabrication methods
Typical job title: "Bench Jewelers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Bench Jewelers
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you set up a jewelry workshop for multiple bench jewelers?
Expected Answer: A senior jeweler should discuss proper workbench positioning, lighting requirements, ventilation needs, tool organization, and safety considerations for multiple workstations. They should also mention training protocols for proper bench pin use.
Q: How do you maintain quality control in a jewelry production environment?
Expected Answer: Should explain inspection processes, quality standards, training methods for junior jewelers, and how to efficiently organize workflow while maintaining craftsmanship standards.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What safety procedures do you follow when using a bench pin?
Expected Answer: Should discuss proper positioning, tool maintenance, eye protection, dust collection, and general workshop safety practices.
Q: What factors do you consider when choosing between different bench pin materials?
Expected Answer: Should explain the differences between wooden and metal pins, durability considerations, replacement frequency, and specific uses for different materials.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is a bench pin used for in jewelry making?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain basic functions like supporting metal while sawing and filing, and describe proper positioning of work on the pin.
Q: How do you maintain your bench pin?
Expected Answer: Should know basic maintenance like cleaning, replacing when worn, and proper storage of tools around the workstation.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic bench work techniques
- Simple metal sawing and filing
- Tool maintenance
- Basic safety procedures
Mid (2-5 years)
- Efficient workflow organization
- Complex fabrication techniques
- Training junior staff
- Quality control procedures
Senior (5+ years)
- Workshop management
- Advanced metalworking techniques
- Team supervision
- Production optimization
Red Flags to Watch For
- No hands-on jewelry making experience
- Unfamiliarity with basic bench tools
- Poor understanding of workshop safety
- Lack of attention to detail
