Sunnen is seeking a skilled and safety-conscious Heat Treat Operator to join our team. This position plays a key role in operating heat treatment equipment to modify the physical and mechanical properties of metal parts to meet stringent engineering and quality standards. The ideal candidate must demonstrate a strong commitment to safety, quality, and Lean Manufacturing principles, working proactively to maintain a clean, efficient, and hazard-free work environment while driving continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities:
The Heat Treat Operator will be responsible for delivering results that include the following:
- Follow all company safety protocols, personal protective equipment (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), 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 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 (e.g., hardness testers, calipers, micrometers).
- Support and maintain 5S standards in the work area 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.
Position Qualification Requirements:
- Follow all company safety protocols, personal protective equipment (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), 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 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 (e.g., hardness testers, calipers, micrometers).
- Support and maintain 5S standards in the work area 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.
Required Skills and Abilities:
- 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.
Sunnen offers a wide variety of benefits for our employees, such as:
- 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
- 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.