Aurubis – metallurgy is our passion. We are a leading global multi-metal company and one of the largest copper recyclers worldwide. We process complex metal concentrates, scrap metals, and metal-bearing recycling materials into metals of the highest purity. These metals serve as the basis for key megatrends such as digitalization, renewable energies, e-mobility, and urbanization. Aurubis has about 7,000 employees, production sites in Europe and the US, and an extensive worldwide distribution system. Join our team and promote progress together with us!
The Milling/Fine Preparation Operator is responsible for operating sample preparation equipment in a professional way with a focus on quality. This includes, but is not limited to, operating incineration equipment, grinding & milling equipment, and induction furnaces to prepare samples, while supporting an atmosphere of operational excellence within the team. The operator will generate a homogenous and representative sample with various equipment in fine preparation. The successful candidate will have proven experience on shift in a manufacturing operation, preferably operating sample preparation equipment, is committed to quality and accuracy in performing assigned tasks 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. 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.
Milling & Fine Prep Operator
Your Tasks
Execute the sample preparation of raw materials, including operating sample preparation equipment.
Execute a limited number of frequent, defined activities in the sample preparation department, such as operating, cleaning, and maintaining various industrial sample preparation equipment. Examples for maintenance works are changing crucible and refractory channel lining, checking hydraulic liquid, chiseling, and sand layer change.
Prepare samples for smelting and execute smelting process, including inspection of the sampling material for hazards, e.g., hollow bodies with water inclusion, ammunition, etc. after training.
Furnace equipment includes inspecting furnaces and filter chambers, changing of filter bags, inspection of rapping units, charging, and operating the furnace with sample material including scraping, and casting.
Operate incineration and induction furnaces, several mills, and sieves, etc.
Prepare sample bags for shipping.
Secure separation of different batches to avoid contamination.
Handle material with forklifts, high lift stackers or cranes from 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.
Execute stock taking activities in respective areas of responsibility.
Handle claim management.
Comply with company instructions e.g., on health & safety, environmental protection.
Comply with company rules and regulations.
Know and understand the processes and procedures in the direct field of activity
Assure quality and actively participating in continuous improvement programs.
Proactively exchange information with Operators and Managers (e.g., on process/condition of aggregates).
Successfully communicate, interact, and interface with international and domestic employees of various levels regarding operational and non-operational topics. Examples of roles include sample preparation, laboratory, sampling, logistics, engineering, production, maintenance, customer service, and purchasing.
Be aware of and follows performance measurement & KPI tracking for operative responsible area. Establishes corrective actions for underperforming metrics to ensure performance standards are met.
Achieve set lead times in Sample Preparation area.
Your Profile
High school Diploma or GED
Minimum of 3 years practical experience in related manufacturing operations.
Demonstrated ability to work in and through teams at all levels of the workforce.
Proven work experience in operating process equipment, ideally in an international environment.
Able to operate a forklift or crane (or willingness to learn)
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 and occupational safety.
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.
We Offer
Competitive Retirement Savings – 401(k) plan with generous company match to help you plan for the future
Comprehensive Health Coverage – Medical, dental, and vision plans with company cost sharing to support you and your family, starting you first day of employment.
Income Protection – Company-paid disability insurance for added peace of mind
Generous Paid Time Off – Robust PTO package including vacation and 13 paid holidays.
What does Aurubis stand for? Take a look here!
Aurubis is an employer that stands for diversity and equal opportunity. Employment decisions are made regardless of national or ethnic origin, religion and belief, gender and gender identity, sexual orientation, age, mental and physical impairment and social origin or any other legally protected characteristics of an individual.
