Sample Preparation Furnace Operator

The full-time position of SAMPLE PREPARATION OPERATOR reports to the Sample Preparation Supervisor and is responsible for operating the sample preparation equipment in a professionally and technically correct way with focus on quality in Aurubis Richmond. This includes (but is not limited to): contributing to establishing an atmosphere of operational excellence within the team, operating incineration, and induction furnaces to prepare samples, generating a homogenous and representative sample with various equipment in fine preparation and handling materials with appropriate mobile equipment. The successful candidate will have proven demonstration of day-to-day operations in operating sample preparation equipment (preferably electronic scraps), is committed to quality and accuracy in performing assigned tasks, used to work in shifts, and is focused on safety and environmental topics. 

The position’s focus is the execution, as well as continuous optimization of workflows within sample preparation with a focus on recycling raw materials for non-ferrous metallurgy. This includes working in a fixed shift in operating sample preparation equipment for all required materials while maximizing quality, balancing costs, and minimizing risks. This role supports the Sample Preparation and Laboratory Manager in establishing operational excellence in Aurubis Richmond. 

• Execute a limited number of largely recurring, defined activities in the sample preparation department, such as, but not limited to, operating, cleaning, and maintaining various industrial sample preparation equipment.

• The operation also includes cleaning and, if necessary, simple maintenance work. The employee usually performs tasks according to clear instructions. Examples for maintenance works are changing crucible, refractory channel lining, chiseling, and sand layer change.

• Prepare samples for smelting and execute smelting process, including inspection of the sampling material hazards, e.g., hollow bodies with water inclusion, ammunition, etc. after training.

• Operate furnace equipment including, but not limited to, inspecting furnaces and filter chambers, changing of filter bags, inspection of rapping units, charging, and operating the furnace with sample material including scrapping and casting.

• Operate sample preparation equipment such as, but not limited to, incineration and induction furnaces, several mills, and sieves, etc. Prepare sample bags for shipping. Secure separation of different batches to always avoid contamination.

• Handle material with forklifts, high lift stackers, or cranes from time to time. Must be able to drive listed mobile equipment.

• Perform basic calculations on different contents of materials.

• Register material flows and melting operations in corresponding IT – systems.

• Professional handling of claim management. Comply with company instructions e.g., on health & safety, environmental protection.

• Comply with company rules and regulations. Economic behavior about material and time expenditure.

• Provision of work equipment.

• Prepare workstations for e.g., maintenance (tasks). Know and understand the processes and procedures in the direct field of activity.

• Assure quality and actively participate in continuous improvement programs.

• Proactive exchange of information with Operators and Managers (e.g., on process/condition of aggregates.)

• Must successfully communicate, interact, and interface with international and domestic employees of various levels regarding operational and non-operational topics. Examples of roles include (but not limited to): sample preparation, laboratory, sampling, logistics, engineers, production, maintenance, customer services, and purchasing.

• Contact with external suppliers or their representatives, internal customers, purchasing and customer service department, to identify, research, analyze, and resolve challenges.

• Act in an industrial environment with high level of compliancy rules (safety, environment, and quality).

• Be aware of and follow performance measurement & KPI tracking for operative responsible area.

• Establish corrective actions for underperforming metrics to ensure performance standards are met.

• Achieve set lead times in Sample Preparation area.

• Comply with internal guidelines and derivation of measures regarding occupational safety, environmental protection, quality assurance, etc.

• Ensure safety and order in one’s own work environment.

• Participate in behavioral safety inspections at other facilities and ensure they can be conducted in own department.

• Other duties as assigned.

REQUIRED 

• Minimum of 3 years practical experience in related manufacturing operations.
• Demonstrated ability to work in and through teams at all levels of the workforce.
• Basic computer skills (business system, email, Microsoft Office Suite).
• Solid knowledge of potentially hazardous materials or practices in the workplace.
• Solid knowledge of environmental protection, occupational safety, and labor law standards.
• Must be conversant in current DOT and OSHA regulations.

Preferred

• Proven work experience in operating sample preparation equipment.
• Basic knowledge with ERP systems (SAP) and product flows.
• Knowledge of lean/process improvement methodologies.
• Knowledge of and/or experience with TPS principles is a plus.
• APICS certification(s), a plus.
• Experience with a start-up of a plant is beneficial.
• Ability to read and interpret prints, drawings, and layouts.

Special Skills

• Exhibits a strong work ethic – willing to do what it takes to get the job done.
• Good communication skills – includes listening, speaking, etc. to effectively communicate targets and goals to his/her colleagues.
• Must possess the ability to receive and give constructive feedback.
• Capability to clearly present information and obtain other’s buy-ins.
• The ability to act decisively and solve staff or equipment related problems.
• Possess a mindset that embraces challenge and change.
• Passion for metals and clear willingness for self-development.

Education Required

• High school Diploma

Physical Requirements

• 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 the following: walking, standing, climbing, pulling, and or pushing, carrying, grasping,
• using hand-to-finger movement, balancing, reaching, twisting, turning, and stooping.
• May occasionally be required to reach with hands and arms; and 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 and 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.