First Shift Kiln Machine Operator

Job Overview Operates and monitors firing kilns and related equipment to process products according to established specifications, production schedules, quality standards, and safety requirements. Responsible for maintaining accurate production records, monitoring kiln performance, and ensuring consistent product quality throughout the firing process.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Review work orders, production travelers, processing charts, and operating instructions to determine product specifications, firing requirements, and processing parameters.
• Establish and verify kiln firing cycles, schedules, temperature profiles, and operating settings in accordance with approved procedures and product requirements.
• Safely start up, operate, monitor, and shut down kilns, ovens, and related processing equipment.
• Monitor and control kiln temperature, humidity, ventilation, and other critical process variables to ensure compliance with established specifications.
• Read, interpret, and record data from gauges, controllers, data loggers, and monitoring systems; make process adjustments as required to maintain product quality.
• Continuously observe equipment operation and product condition to identify defects, process deviations, equipment malfunctions, or safety concerns.
• Perform routine inspections and minor preventative maintenance activities, including cleaning equipment, work areas, and accessible machine components.
• Report equipment issues, process abnormalities, quality concerns, and maintenance needs to the appropriate personnel in a timely manner.
• Maintain accurate manual and computerized production, process, quality, and inspection records in accordance with company procedures.
• Verify completed work meets quality standards and documented process requirements before releasing product to the next operation.
• Follow all safety, environmental, quality, and operational procedures, including the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Support continuous improvement initiatives by identifying opportunities to improve process efficiency, quality, safety, and equipment performance.
• Assist with training and cross-training activities as required.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support production and business objectives.

Qualifications & Skills

• A High School diploma or general education degree (GED) is preferred.
• Demonstrate knowledge of manufacturing principles, practices, and procedures.
• Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions
• Computer Skills: Basic knowledge in computers, accessing email, training, and documents via company network.
• Ability to perform duties in accordance with policies and procedures.
• Ability to work in the line with minimal supervision.

Physical Requirements

• Work is performed in a manufacturing and production environment.
• Regular exposure to moving mechanical parts, manufacturing equipment, and production machinery.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the work shift.
• Ability to frequently use hands and fingers to operate equipment, handle materials, and perform inspection tasks.
• Ability to perform repetitive motions involving the hands, wrists, and arms.
• Ability to bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, reach, and climb as required to operate, clean, and maintain equipment.
• Ability to visually inspect materials and identify defects with a high degree of accuracy, including the ability to distinguish variations in appearance and quality.
• ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and equipment weighing up to 15 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Ability to safely move and handle production materials throughout the manufacturing process.
• Ability to work overtime, extended shifts, and weekends as business needs require.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• None