Furnace Operator

We are looking for a Furnace Operator for our Troy, MI facility.

About the role

In this role you will safely prepare, melt, and atomize metal powder following job instructions. This includes loading the furnace with raw materials, purging down with inert gas, power-up, taking temperatures, inspecting, and pouring the molten metal from a hydraulically positioned induction furnace.

Support activities include preparation and maintenance of the refractory furnace lining, maintenance of accurate production records, delivery of atomized product to the screening area, and cleaning the furnace and atomization system between alloys.

Responsibilities

• Meet or exceed all safety, environmental, and health goals for department
• Meet or exceed quality goals and productivity targets for production orders
• Contribute to continual improvement activities
• Operation and monitoring of induction melting equipment used for the gas atomization of nickel and cobalt based alloys
• Responsible for preparation and maintenance of refractory furnace lining while maintaining a constant awareness of the condition of the refractory lining
• Measure, weigh, and combine raw materials based on specific instructions
• Clean the furnace and atomization tank between alloys
• Perform routine maintenance and support activities (e.g. replacement of power leads, disassembly of atomization tank, installation of gas delivery system)
• Utilize process parameters specified in the job traveler
• Ensure accurate records are maintained of heats poured noting characteristics such as start and stop time, gas pressures, temperatures, and melt characteristics
• Performs other duties as required

Requirements

• Basic math skills, organization ability, and mechanical knowledge
• Ability to perform physical tasks, i.e. lifting, bending, standing, etc.
• Ability to safely operate cranes and powered industrial vehicles preferred
• Proficient in Mathematics (Decimals, Fractions, Percentages, Weighted Averages)
• Strong customer focus - internal and external
• Strong organizational and communication skills
• Ability to work 12-hour shifts

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical and prescription drug plan with low premiums, company sponsored HSA contributions and no waiting periods
• Excellent Dental and Vision coverage
• Employee Assistance, Financial and Wellness programs
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with significant company match and financial planning and education options
• Tuition reimbursement and internal education resources
• Generous paid time off
• 12 paid company holidays
• 100% company paid life insurance and disability insurance
• Employee Referral Bonus program

About Oerlikon

Oerlikon is a global leader in surface technologies and advanced materials. With a unique portfolio spanning surface engineering, high-performance materials, coating equipment and components, we make products better by enhancing performance, efficiency and sustainability. Oerlikon serves a wide range of industries, including aerospace, automotive, energy, medical, luxury, semiconductors and tooling. Headquartered in Pfäffikon, Switzerland, Oerlikon operates in 38 countries with around 10,000 employees, achieving sales of CHF 1.6 billion in 2025.