Metal Working
Metal Working is a fundamental skill in prop making where artisans shape, cut, and join metal materials to create props, set pieces, and custom items. It includes various techniques like welding, cutting, bending, and finishing metals. Think of it as sculpting with metal - artists use these skills to transform flat sheets or metal pieces into three-dimensional objects. This is similar to woodworking, but with metal materials. When you see this term in resumes, it typically means the person can handle tools like welders, metal cutters, and grinding equipment to create or modify metal objects.
Examples in Resumes
Created hero props using Metal Working techniques for major theatrical productions
Applied Metal Working and Metalcraft skills to fabricate custom scenic elements
Led Metal Working workshop teaching basic prop fabrication techniques to junior artists
Typical job title: "Metal Workers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Metal Workers
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you approach creating a large-scale metal prop that needs to be both durable and lightweight?
Expected Answer: A senior metal worker should discuss various materials like aluminum vs steel, construction techniques, internal support structures, and safety considerations. They should also mention budget management and team coordination.
Q: Tell me about a challenging metal working project you managed and how you solved problems that came up.
Expected Answer: Look for answers that demonstrate leadership, problem-solving, and advanced technical knowledge. They should discuss project planning, team coordination, and how they handled unexpected challenges.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What safety procedures do you follow when working with metal?
Expected Answer: Should discuss proper protective equipment, workspace ventilation, fire safety, proper tool handling, and general workshop safety protocols.
Q: What different types of metals have you worked with and how do you choose which to use?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain differences between common metals like steel, aluminum, and brass, and discuss factors like durability, weight, cost, and finish options.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What basic tools do you use in metal working and what are they for?
Expected Answer: Should be able to name and explain basic tools like different types of hammers, files, measuring tools, and basic power tools used in metal working.
Q: Can you explain the basic steps of creating a simple metal prop from start to finish?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of basic process: measuring, marking, cutting, shaping, joining, and finishing metal pieces safely.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic metal cutting and shaping
- Simple joining techniques
- Understanding of workshop safety
- Basic tool operation
Mid (2-5 years)
- Multiple joining methods
- Various finishing techniques
- Reading technical drawings
- Complex shape formation
Senior (5+ years)
- Project management
- Advanced fabrication techniques
- Training and supervision
- Complex prop creation
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic workshop safety
- Lack of experience with common metal working tools
- No understanding of different metal properties
- Unable to read basic technical drawings or sketches
