Schofield was apparently the son of Samuel Schofield, a tallow chandler in Sheffield, who apprenticed his son to cutler William Tallents.  After serving his apprenticeship, Joseph became a Freeman in 1792.  He apparently went into partnership with William Littlewood, but this was dissolved in 1792.  He next operated Schofield & Co, which was listed in 1797 as a table knife maker at Norfolk Row (trade mark ‘SCHOFIELD’).   He seems to have resumed his dealings with William Littlewood.  They were joined by William Ball and John Cox and concentrated on button manufacture.  After this arrangement ended in 1803, Schofield, Littlewood, and Ball continued as merchants and manufacturers until 1808.  

Schofield, Wild & Knowles was the next incarnation of this firm.  It included James Wild and George Knowles.  James Wild was a table knife maker at Pea Croft.  Schofield, Wild & Knowles was dissolved in 1809, but still listed in a directory in 1811.  Henceforth, Joseph Schofield & Co continued to trade at Norfolk Lane and Union Street.  In 1822, Scholfield & Co was a factor and manufacturer of table knives, razors, and nails at 18 Union Street.  However, Joseph Schofield was bankrupt in 1823.  The Sheffield Independent, 20 August 1825, reported that the table knife manufacturer had died ‘a few days ago’.  No age was stated and so far his burial has not been traced.