Sample Prep Furnace Operator

Aurubis – metallurgy is our passion. We are a leading global multi-metal company and one of the largest copper recyclers worldwide. We process complex metal concentrates, scrap metals, and metal-bearing recycling materials into metals of the highest purity. These metals serve as the basis for key megatrends such as digitalization, renewable energies, e‑mobility, and urbanization. Aurubis has about 7,000 employees, production sites in Europe and the US, and an extensive worldwide distribution system.

Join our team and promote progress together with us!

The Sample Preparation Furnace Operator reports to the Team Lead and is responsible for safely and accurately operating sample preparation equipment at Aurubis Richmond. Key duties include:

• Operating incineration and induction furnaces to produce homogeneous, representative samples
• Using fine preparation equipment and mobile equipment to handle materials
• Supporting workflow optimization and continuous improvement in sample preparation

The role works a fixed shift and focuses on quality, safety, and environmental compliance while supporting operational excellence in recycling raw materials for non‑ferrous metallurgy. Ideal candidates have hands‑on experience with sample preparation equipment (preferably electronic scrap), strong attention to accuracy, and the ability to thrive in a shift‑based environment.

Operate, clean, and perform basic maintenance on sample preparation equipment (e.g., incineration and induction furnaces, mills, sieves, furnaces, filter chambers).

Prepare and smelt samples, ensuring safe handling of hazardous materials and preventing batch contamination.

Inspect, charge, and operate furnace equipment; replace consumables (e.g., crucibles, refractory linings, filter bags).

Prepare and label sample bags for shipping.

Handle materials using forklifts, stackers, and cranes.

Record material flows, melting operations, and calculations in IT systems.

Ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental, and quality standards.

Support continuous improvement, KPI tracking, and corrective actions to meet performance targets.

Communicate and coordinate effectively with internal teams (sample preparation, lab, logistics, engineering, production, maintenance, customer service, purchasing) and external suppliers.

Contribute to efficient, safe, and economical operations in alignment with company policies.

Train, coach, and onboard new employees, apprentices, and trainees.

Build an open feedback culture; motivate and develop team members.

Collaborate with cross‑functional teams (lab, logistics, engineering, maintenance, purchasing, suppliers).

Comply with all safety, health, environmental, and quality standards.

Act as a role model for safe behavior, promptly addressing and reporting hazards.

Support audits, risk assessments, and regulatory compliance (OSHA, EPA, DOT).

Ensure environmentally sound operations and maintain contact with EHS and environmental teams.

Support process optimization, KPI tracking, and corrective actions.

Contribute to lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Analyze processes, propose improvements, and implement approved changes.

Define, monitor, and report team KPIs aligned with site strategy.

Maintain accurate records and reports (SAP, MS Office).

Coordinate with service providers and internal departments on repairs and projects.

Support audits and compliance inquiries (e.g., DOL, EEOC, Workers Comp).

Perform other duties as assigned.

High school Diploma or equivalent

Minimum 3 years’ experience in manufacturing or related operations.

Hands‑on experience with sample preparation equipment preferred.

Familiarity with hazardous materials, OSHA/DOT regulations, and safety/environmental standards.

Basic computer skills (MS Office, email, business systems); ERP (SAP) experience preferred.

Knowledge of lean/process improvement methods (TPS, Six Sigma, APICS certification a plus).

Ability to read and interpret technical prints, drawings, and layouts.

Experience in plant start‑ups beneficial.

Strong work ethic with willingness to take ownership and deliver results.

Clear…