Furnace Operator

The purpose of the position is to take responsibility for the operation and safety of the furnace shift. This involves operating the electric induction furnace, providing input regarding maintenance, controlling the quality of the process, supervising staff and ensure compliance to applicable safety protocols.

Key duties: 

• Perform daily health checks on furnace and related equipment
• Perform start up and cool down procedures on the furnace
• Constant monitoring of furnace parameters
• Control power to the furnace within defined curves
• Oversee the loading of raw materials into the furnace
• Operate pumps, valves and furnace equipment
• Maintain refractory installations
• Operate furnace hydraulics
• Supervise the unloading of product once sufficiently cooled
• Report defective equipment
• Adherence to Safety, Environmental and Health regulations
• Co-ordinate housekeeping duties
• Management of the Furnace equipment and operational procedures
• Manage risk by identifying potential failures and offering solutions to remedy risk
• Team supervision to ensure smooth operation of the shift
• Manage consumables and spares to ensure that production runs smoothly
• Compile shift report including general incidents and delays
• Investigate incidents and communicate findings and possible solutions timeously
• Manage quality standards in accordance with set targets and guidelines

Minimum requirements: 

• Matric (Maths and Science required)
• At least 3 years electric induction furnace experience
• Must be computer literate (Microsoft Office)
• SAQA accreditation related to furnace operations will be beneficial
• Willingness to work overtime and shift

Competencies: 

• Understand emergency procedures pertaining to the furnace process
• Understand the Health and Safety requirements for operating the furnace
• Excellent communication skills (verbal and written)
• In depth knowledge and experience in operating a furnace
• Ability to work in and lead a team
• Ability to work independently
• Ability to work under challenging conditions
• In good health, physically fit