Potroom Operator (PCO)

About the role

The Potroom Operator (PCO) is responsible for monitoring and maintaining the routine functions of electrolytic pots in the aluminum smelting process. This includes changing anodes, tapping pots, moving materials, and operating overhead cranes to ensure efficient and safe operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor pot operations using visual inspections, millivolt readings, and process control computer systems.
• Adjust pot voltage and current distribution to maintain optimal performance.
• Tap pots using siphon, vacuum crucible, and siphon lid.
• Operate overhead cranes and other heavy equipment.
• Replace anodes, clean bath from butts, and manage anode distribution.
• Distribute alumina and bath materials using charging buckets.
• Maintain and repair Potroom components including bridges, bus contacts, and deck plates.
• Auxiliary tasks include assisting with pot start-up and shutdown procedures.
• Maintain accurate records using VDT or SPC control charts.
• Perform limited painting and general housekeeping duties.

Working Conditions

• Rotating DuPont schedule with 4-week cycles of 12-hour shifts (6:00 AM–6:00 PM or 6:00 PM–6:00 AM).
• Alternating between day and night shifts, with a mix of on/off days, including weekends and holidays.
• Physically demanding industrial environment with exposure to high temperatures, noise, and airborne particulates.
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, lifting, and operation of heavy machinery.
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is mandatory to ensure safety in hazardous conditions.

Environmental Responsibilities

• Handle and process materials such as alumina, cryolite, molten aluminum, and dross in accordance with environmental regulations.
• Ensure proper disposal and containment of hazardous materials.
• Maintain clean and organized work areas to minimize environmental impact.

Safety Responsibilities

• Follow all safety protocols and procedures to protect self and others.
• Operate equipment safely and report any malfunctions or hazards.
• Participate in safety training and emergency response drills.
• Maintain clean and hazard-free work zones.

What You Can Bring To The Role

• Minimum Qualifications: High school diploma or GED, 1 year of work experience, basic computer literacy for process monitoring.
• Preferred Qualifications: Experience in aluminum smelting or similar heavy industrial operations, familiarity with process control systems and millivolt meters, previous experience with anode changes and Potroom operations, experience operating heavy equipment and overhead cranes.
• Skills and Competencies: Strong mechanical aptitude and manual dexterity, ability to interpret technical data and make real-time adjustments, attention to detail and commitment to safety, effective communication and teamwork skills, physical stamina and resilience in demanding environments.

About the Location

Alcoa "Warrick" based in Newburgh, Indiana just outside of Evansville, IN has been present in the lives of many families in our community for over 60 years. We've grown and we've matured together. Now we are looking for our next generation of Alcoans to bring us into the future. You can be one of them!

We are values led, vision driven and united by our purpose of transforming raw potential into real progress. Our commitments to Inclusion, Diversity & Equity include providing trusting workplaces that are safe, respectful and inclusive of all individuals, free from discrimination, bullying and harassment and that our workplaces reflect the diversity of the communities in which we operate.

This is a place where you are empowered to do your best work, be your authentic self, and feel a true sense of belonging. Come join us and shape your career!