Job Role

The Furnace / Melt Shop Operator is responsible for supporting the safe and efficient operation of furnace and melt shop processes involved in the production of molten metal. The role involves preparing and handling raw materials, supporting furnace charging and melting operations, monitoring production processes, maintaining cleanliness and order within the work area, and following established safety and quality procedures.

2. PURPOSE OF THE ROLE

• Support safe and efficient furnace and melt shop operations.
• Ensure raw materials are properly prepared and handled for production.
• Assist in maintaining consistent production flow and process efficiency.
• Monitor operating conditions and promptly report abnormalities or unsafe conditions.
• Maintain cleanliness, order, and safe working conditions within the melt shop.
• Support production targets while maintaining required quality and safety standards.
• Ensure compliance with company operating procedures, health and safety requirements, and production guidelines.

3. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

A. Furnace & Melting Operations

• Operate and support furnace equipment in accordance with established operating procedures.
• Assist with furnace charging and feeding of approved raw materials.
• Monitor furnace operating conditions and report unusual conditions to the supervisor.
• Support melting operations to ensure smooth and continuous production.
• Assist with tapping and transfer of molten metal as directed by authorized personnel.
• Follow prescribed operating parameters and production instructions.

B. Raw Material Handling & Preparation

• Receive, sort, prepare, and handle raw materials required for melting operations.
• Ensure materials are correctly identified and prepared before charging.
• Assist in handling scrap metal and other approved furnace inputs.
• Report contaminated, unsuitable, or incorrectly identified materials to the supervisor.
• Maintain proper organization of materials within designated areas.

C. Process Monitoring & Production Support

• Monitor production activities and assist in identifying process abnormalities.
• Record or communicate relevant production information as required.
• Support production teams in achieving daily output targets.
• Coordinate with other melt shop personnel to maintain smooth production flow.
• Assist with routine operational checks and inspections.
• Immediately escalate equipment faults, production issues, spills, or unsafe conditions.

D. Safety & Compliance

• Strictly follow all health, safety, and environmental procedures.
• Wear and correctly use all required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
• Maintain safe distances and follow designated procedures when working around molten metal and high-temperature equipment.
• Participate in safety briefings, toolbox talks, and required training.
• Report accidents, near misses, hazards, and unsafe practices immediately.
• Follow established emergency response procedures.

E. Housekeeping & Equipment Care

• Maintain cleanliness and good housekeeping within the furnace and melt shop areas.
• Assist with routine cleaning and basic operational maintenance as directed.
• Ensure tools and equipment are properly handled, stored, and maintained.
• Report damaged or malfunctioning equipment to the responsible supervisor.
• Keep work areas free from unnecessary materials and obstructions.

F. Teamwork & Operational Support

• Work closely with furnace operators, casting teams, maintenance personnel, quality teams, and production supervisors.
• Follow instructions from supervisors and authorized technical personnel.
• Support shift handovers by communicating relevant operational information.
• Assist other production activities when required and within the scope of the role.
• Maintain discipline, punctuality, and effective teamwork throughout assigned shifts.

Qualification

4. QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum KCSE qualification or equivalent.
• Previous experience in a steel manufacturing, foundry, metal processing, furnace, melt shop, or heavy industrial environment is an added advantage.
• Technical training in mechanical, electrical, production, welding, fabrication, or a related field is an added advantage.
• Experience working in a shift-based industrial production environment is an added advantage.
• Must be physically fit and able to work in a hot, noisy, and demanding industrial environment.
• Ability to follow safety procedures and operating instructions is essential.

5. COMPETENCIES

• Basic understanding of industrial production processes.
• Basic understanding of furnace and melting operations.
• Ability to follow operating procedures and production instructions.
• Basic equipment inspection and operational awareness.
• Occupational health and safety awareness.
• Ability to identify and report abnormal operating conditions.
• Good housekeeping and workplace organization.
• Strong safety-conscious mindset.
• Physical stamina and ability to work under demanding conditions.
• Accountability and responsibility.
• Ability to remain alert and focused during operations.