Sample Prep Furnace Operator

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Aurubis is 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 high‑purity metals that serve as the basis for key megatrends such as digitalization, renewable energies, e‑mobility, and urbanization. With about 7,000 employees and production sites in Europe and the US, Aurubis offers a dynamic career that promotes progress and innovation.

• 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.

High school Diploma or equivalent.

Minimum 3 years of 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 communicator; able to train, coach, and provide constructive feedback.
• Decisive problem‑solver with a mindset for continuous improvement and change.
• Ability to build trust, collaborate across teams, and foster a positive work culture.
• Passion for metals and commitment to personal development.

• Must be willing and physically able to walk/work in, observe and spend time in a smelter environment.
• Must be willing and physically able to work in intense heat situations.
• Able to sit, stand, and walk for varying periods of time in the plant.
• Must be able to perform walking, standing, climbing, pulling, pushing, carrying, grasping, hand‑to‑finger movement, balancing, reaching, twisting, turning, and stooping.
• May occasionally be required to reach with hands and arms; the ability to stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
• Good physical condition with the ability to lift to 50 lbs. occasionally.
• Good hand/eye coordination, motor skills, 20/20 corrected vision; hearing within the normal range.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
• Ability to respond quickly and efficiently to all safety needs on the floor or in the office areas.
• Must wear all required PPE when in protected areas.
• Willing and physically able to travel domestically and/or internationally, if requested.

• Operate, clean, and perform basic maintenance on sample preparation equipment (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 (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…