furnace operator

About the role

The VIM OPERATOR performs responsibilities as outlined below and other related duties following established practices set forth in the Operating Procedures Manual and the Manufacturing Instructions Manual.

About Ellwood Quality Steels: Family-owned business with long-range vision. The world leader in the production of high quality carbon, alloy, stainless and tool steel ingot. Unmatched commitment to our customers. Emphasis on flexibility, responsiveness, and problem solving. Continual investment in our people, process, and equipment. Highly trained workforce, state-of-the-art equipment and methodology. A manufacturing environment where excellence is an everyday occurrence.

Our focus at Ellwood Quality Steels is to create an environment of opportunity where you can grow your career. Our culture values diverse talents and the contributions of all employees. Our commitment includes competitive compensation, support for your professional growth, and a range of employee benefits that help to protect the health and welfare of our people.

Responsibilities

• Under general supervision performs responsibilities as outlined below and other related duties following established practices set forth in the Operating Procedures Manual and the Manufacturing Instructions Manual.
• Primary responsibility for VIM melting process parameters (temperature, vacuum levels, and power settings) to maintain optimal melting conditions to meet specification and performs real‑time adjustments to melt where necessary to ensure high‑quality production.
• Maintain a clean and organized work environment to support safe and efficient operations.
• Set up and prepare the VIM furnace for melting operations, including:
  • Launder building and curing & crucible refractory
  • Mold Set‑Up, ingot stripping, and mold cleaning
  • Crucible (melt vessel) and launder knock‑out
  • Charge Make‑Up area receiving, weighing, inspecting, and verifying material working with VIM helper to complete the material charging
  • Lauder preheat station and assembly
  • Supporting VIM Crew Leader with redundancy in Crucible Movements (to and from preheat, into furnace charge and melting positions, and cool down stations)
• Material sample taking and test
• Melt documentation
• Follow strict safety protocols when handling high‑temperature materials, vacuum systems, and electrical equipment.
• Ensure all furnace components are clean, properly installed, and aligned for efficient operation.
• Work closely with VIM crew leader and