Thermal Operator; Part Cleaner

Position Purpose

Perform all High‑pressure Processing operations, including the operations of furnaces, kilns, dryers, and post cures according to procedures. Load racks of injected cores in drying ovens and set the proper settings. Transfer saggers of cores to post‑cure racks and load racks in post‑cure furnaces. Select proper schedule on post‑cure. When done, unload post‑cure and move racks to the next operation for unloading.

Also load and unload product to and from kiln cars for various 2nd‑fire kilns. Documentation of all operations is very important.

• Load racks in drying ovens.
• Transfer containers to post‑cure racks.
• Load and unload post‑cure oven with forklift truck.
• Move completed post‑cure racks to unload area with forklift truck.
• Unload cores from sand when necessary
  • Use airbrush to remove sand from cores.
  • Seal patch cores as necessary.
  • Use microblaster to remove excess ceramic material from quartz rods.
  • Use caution to avoid breakage when handling cores.
• Follow and adhere to all safety procedures.
• Load and unload blocks and saggers of product from gas furnaces according to written procedure.
• Build loads for kilns by properly balancing saggers. Place fire‑check keys in appropriate places for lab analysis.
• Run all thermal equipment, including dryers, post cures, and furnaces according to procedure.
• Set time and temperature parameters according to procedure using standard programs. Monitor temperature charts and notify engineering if out of specification.
• Perform routine cleaning and minor maintenance on department equipment as required.

• Must have a valid PCC Powered Industrial truck license, or be able to qualify within 30 days of acceptance.
• Ability to perform in a self‑directed environment with little supervision is essential.
• Ability to follow instructions and interpret procedures, analyze problems.
• Not on a verbal warning or higher for attendance or other disciplinary actions during the last twelve months.
• Ability to work in a team‑oriented environment.
• Must be self‑directed to accomplish goals with minimal supervision.
• Must have good interpersonal skills for dealing with customers and internal employees.

• Standing – 70%
• Sitting – 5%
• Stooping/Bending – 15%
• Walking – 10%
• Frequently lifting up to 40 pounds; heavier lifting may occasionally be required.