Heat Operator

Overview

Heat Treat Operator at Sunnen Products Company

Sunnen Products Company is a global leader in the manufacturing and distribution of bore sizing and finishing equipment, engine rebuilding equipment, and tooling and abrasives. We are seeking results-driven candidates who value safety, quality, and Lean Manufacturing principles.

Sunnen is seeking a skilled and safety-conscious Heat Treat Operator to operate heat treatment equipment to modify the physical and mechanical properties of metal parts to meet engineering and quality standards. The ideal candidate will maintain a clean, efficient, hazard-free work environment and participate in continuous improvement initiatives.

• Follow all company safety protocols, PPE requirements, lockout/tagout procedures, and hazard communication guidelines at all times
• Conduct daily safety checks of equipment, tools, and workspace; report unsafe conditions or near-miss incidents
• Operate and monitor heat-treating equipment including furnaces, ovens, and quenching systems per SOPs and engineering requirements
• Load/unload parts using proper lifting techniques and equipment (hoists, forklifts), ensuring safe handling and minimizing risk of injury or damage
• Monitor time, temperature, and other process variables, ensuring adherence to specifications and safety limits
• Record process data accurately and maintain traceability for all treated parts
• Perform visual and mechanical inspections before and after heat treatment using precision tools (e.g., hardness testers, calipers, micrometers)
• Support and maintain 5S standards to promote cleanliness, organization, and safety
• Actively participate in Kaizen, safety audits, and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance workflow and reduce risks
• Collaborate with supervisors, maintenance, and engineering teams to resolve equipment issues promptly and safely
• Contribute to a culture of safety awareness and accountability across all shifts and departments

• High school diploma/GED
• Follow all company safety protocols, PPE requirements, lockout/tagout procedures, and hazard communication guidelines at all times
• Conduct daily safety checks of equipment, tools, and workspace; immediately report unsafe conditions or near-miss incidents
• Operate and monitor heat-treating equipment including furnaces, ovens, and quenching systems per SOPs and engineering requirements
• Load/unload parts using proper lifting techniques and equipment (hoists, forklifts)
• Monitor time, temperature, and other process variables, ensuring adherence to specifications and safety limits
• Record process data accurately and consistently using data collection systems and ensure traceability for all treated parts
• Perform visual and mechanical inspections before and after heat treatment using precision tools
• Support and maintain 5S standards in the work area
• Actively participate in Kaizen, safety audits, and continuous improvement initiatives
• Collaborate with supervisors, maintenance, and engineering teams to resolve equipment issues promptly and safely
• Contribute to a culture of safety awareness and accountability across all shifts and departments

• Forklift and/or overhead crane certification
• Experience with ISO 9001, AS9100, or NADCAP processes
• Understanding of SPC (Statistical Process Control) and TPM (Total Productive Maintenance)
• Basic computer skills for data entry and ERP systems

• Competitive Insurance Coverage, eligible on the first of the month after hire date:
  Medical (PPO and High Deductible Plan with Employer HSA Contribution), Dental, Vision, Life and AD&D, Accident, Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity
• 401(k) Eligibility with Employer Match
• Company Paid Benefits:
  Group Life and AD&D Insurance, Short Term Disability, Long Term Disability, Employee Assistance Program
• Competitive Vacation Policy
• Weekly onsite Nurse Practitioner and Chiropractor
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Paid Plant Closure Between Christmas and New Year’s Day

We require a background and SSN check, drug test, and physical for pre-employment.

• Seniority level:
  Entry level
• Employment type:
  
  Full-time
• Job function:
  Management and Manufacturing
• Industries:
  Machinery Manufacturing