Forge Operator II

About the role

At ELLWOOD Crankshaft Group (ECG), we manufacture components that power industries around the world. As a global leader in the design, forging, machining, and manufacturing of large, complex crankshafts and critical metal components, ECG combines advanced technology with skilled craftsmanship. Our products support rail, marine, energy, oil and gas, power generation, and industrial equipment. From one-of-a-kind multiple-throw crankshafts to precision-machined components and value-added services, our work keeps freight moving, ships operating, energy flowing, and critical equipment running. At ECG, you’ll tackle complex challenges, build products few companies can make, and make a meaningful impact.

Responsibilities

• Daily coordination and execution of forge heating and material handling (parts and dies) activities based on the forge schedule
• Coordinate and execute safe and efficient set-up of ECG’s clam shell forging furnaces per product-specific set-up requirements
• Coordinate with the press operator to ensure safe and repeatable transfer of bar material from the furnace to the press with crane automation within the minimum amount of time per product-specific transfer requirements
• Provide input during engineering reviews, development and testing of new products and processes, including furnaces, tooling, and material handling devices
• Work closely with the product development engineer during all phases of the project, from trials through production hand-off
• Troubleshoot equipment issues through collaboration with ECG maintenance, engineering and forging crew personnel
• Execute periodic (daily/weekly/monthly) preventive maintenance on heating, material handling and inspection equipment
• Collaborate with ECG Maintenance to develop and sustain preventive maintenance plans and best-practices
• Ensure forge quality control and continuous improvement by troubleshooting quality issues, developing and maintaining in-process quality inspections, and focusing on continuous improvement by identifying, eliminating and preventing obstacles to efficient product flow, quality, and efficiency
• Ensure safe and efficient die assembly into the press using ECG’s customized die rigging with crane automation
• Assist in forging support processes such as die assembly, in-process inspection, and flash removal as well as any other forging support activities
• Collaborate with Forging engineers to optimize forge heating and material handling process sequences as well as setup information contained in blueprints
• Develop/Improve and validate new product recipes for heating by conducting heating trials and furnace surveys
• Review new product inquiries with Engineering to aid in developing routes and estimates with input on forge heating
• Observe all safety rules and regulations and proactively lead safety improvements

Requirements

• High School diploma or equivalent
• Valid Driver’s License
• Knowledge and experience with forging or other applicable manufacturing equipment
• Strong analytical skills and demonstrated problem-solving abilities
• Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office programs
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to prioritize development projects and daily responsibilities
• Must be results oriented with a strong desire to succeed
• Solid verbal and written communication skills, strong math skills
• Must have the ability to successfully transfer knowledge and train others in best practices
• Thorough understanding of our manufacturing processes
• Understanding and ability to layout and stage parts as required
• Desire for continuous improvement – ability to find better ways of doing things
• Ability to work well with a team while also working independently

Physical Requirements

• Occasional lifting of up to 40 pounds and frequent lifting of up to 30 pounds
• Frequent sitting, standing, reaching and climbing
• Occasional walking, climbing, crawling and squatting
• The physical demands for this job are Light-Medium