Job Role

The Rolling Mill Operator is responsible for supporting and operating rolling mill machinery and equipment used in the processing and production of steel products. The role involves preparing the rolling mill for production, monitoring the rolling process, ensuring smooth material flow, identifying operational abnormalities, and maintaining required production, quality, and safety standards.

2. PURPOSE OF THE ROLE

• Support efficient and continuous operation of the rolling mill.
• Ensure steel materials are processed according to required production specifications.
• Monitor rolling mill equipment and production processes.
• Maintain consistent product quality and production output.
• Identify and report equipment faults, process abnormalities, and safety hazards.
• Support achievement of daily production targets.
• Ensure compliance with workplace safety, operational, and quality procedures.

3. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

A. Rolling Mill Operations

• Operate and monitor rolling mill machinery and associated equipment in accordance with established procedures.
• Assist with the setup and preparation of the rolling mill for production.
• Feed and guide steel materials through the rolling process as required.
• Monitor the movement and flow of materials throughout the production line.
• Maintain appropriate operating conditions during the rolling process.
• Follow production instructions and operating parameters provided by the supervisor.
• Support smooth and continuous production operations.

B. Production Process Monitoring

• Monitor rolling mill operations and identify deviations from normal operating conditions.
• Observe equipment performance and report abnormalities promptly.
• Assist in maintaining consistent production flow and output.
• Monitor product dimensions and appearance during production as required.
• Report production delays, material blockages, equipment faults, or other operational issues.
• Maintain accurate production information and records where required.

C. Quality Control & Product Handling

• Ensure processed steel products meet required production and quality specifications.
• Conduct basic visual checks of finished and semi-finished products.
• Identify and report defects, irregularities, or damaged products.
• Assist with proper handling, sorting, stacking, and movement of finished products.
• Work closely with the quality control team to address product quality issues.
• Minimize material wastage and production losses.

D. Safety & Compliance

• Strictly follow all health, safety, and environmental procedures.
• Wear and correctly use all required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
• Maintain safe working distances and follow designated access routes.
• Report accidents, near misses, unsafe conditions, and equipment hazards immediately.
• Participate in toolbox talks, safety briefings, and relevant training.
• Follow emergency procedures and instructions during incidents.

E. Equipment Care & Housekeeping

• Conduct routine operational checks of assigned machinery and equipment.
• Report equipment breakdowns, unusual sounds, leaks, or other abnormalities to the supervisor.
• Assist maintenance personnel during equipment inspection and maintenance activities where required.
• Keep the rolling mill area clean, organized, and free from unnecessary obstructions.
• Properly handle and store tools and equipment.
• Support preventive maintenance activities within the scope of the role.

F. Teamwork & Operational Support

• Work closely with other rolling mill operators, furnace/melt shop teams, maintenance personnel, quality control teams, and production supervisors.
• Communicate operational issues and production information effectively during shift handovers.
• Follow instructions from supervisors and authorized technical personnel.
• Support other production activities when required and within the scope of the position.
• Maintain punctuality, discipline, and effective teamwork throughout assigned shifts.

Qualification

4. QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum KCSE qualification or equivalent.
• Previous experience in a steel manufacturing, rolling mill, metal processing, fabrication, foundry, or heavy industrial environment is an added advantage.
• Technical training in mechanical, electrical, production, welding, fabrication, or a related field is an added advantage.
• Previous experience operating or working around industrial machinery is an added advantage.
• Ability to work in a hot, noisy, and physically demanding industrial environment.
• Must be physically fit and capable of standing and working for extended periods.

5. COMPETENCIES

• Basic understanding of rolling mill operations and steel production processes.
• Basic understanding of industrial machinery and production equipment.
• Ability to monitor machinery and identify abnormal operating conditions.
• Basic quality inspection and defect identification.
• Understanding of workplace health and safety requirements.
• Ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Good equipment and workplace housekeeping practices.
• Basic production recording and reporting skills.