Tyler Pipe - Cupola Controller

We are a company with over 100 years of stability and industry leadership, proud to be part of the McWane family. Our culture prioritizes safety, accountability, and continuous improvement through The McWane Way principles.

About the role

The Cupola Controller is responsible for the operation and monitoring of the cupola furnace, ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality iron production while maintaining compliance with safety and quality standards. This role involves actively monitoring furnace operations, performing quality checks, and coordinating with operators and supervisors to resolve issues promptly.

Responsibilities

• Operational Control
  • Monitor and regulate cupola furnace parameters, including temperature, wind rate, and slag flow, ensuring optimal conditions for production.
  • Oversee the execution of start-up and shutdown procedures, including tapping, ramming, and bottom-dropping processes.
  • Perform periodic inspections of tuyeres, water systems, and furnace components to ensure safe and efficient operations.
  • Assist in troubleshooting and resolving operational issues, including freeze-ups, power failures, and slag-related blockages.
• Quality Assurance
  • Perform and verify chemistry adjustments, including carbon and silicon additions, to meet iron specifications.
  • Collect and analyze iron samples at 30-minute intervals to ensure consistency and quality.
  • Maintain detailed records of chemistry analyses, temperature readings, and production parameters.
  • Ensure proper clearance and water flow for uniform trough operation.
• Coordination and Communication
  • Collaborate with Cupola Operators and Supervisors to prioritize and execute production activities.
  • Coordinate with maintenance teams to schedule inspections, repairs, and equipment upgrades.
  • Act as a point of escalation for operational issues when the Cupola Supervisor is unavailable.
  • Provide guidance to operators during emergency situations, ensuring timely resolution.
• Environmental Compliance
  • Continuously monitor cupola operations for compliance with environmental regulations, including emissions and waste disposal.
  • Promptly alert the supervisor of any deviations, potential violations, or equipment malfunctions that could impact environmental standards.
  • Assist in maintaining proper documentation and implementing corrective actions as needed.
• Administrative Duties
  • Maintain accurate production logs, including chemistry adjustments, operational data, and quality control records.
  • Recommend improvements to melting processes, aiming to enhance safety, quality, and efficiency.
  • Participate in training sessions to stay updated on safety regulations and operational best practices.
• Other Duties
  • Demonstrate a dedication to safety by wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) when entering and working in the plant.
  • Keep work area clean, safe, and orderly.
  • Complete other duties as assigned by Cupola Supervisor or Melt Manager.

Requirements

• Minimum of three (3) years of experience operating a Cupola furnace or similar equipment in a heavy industrial environment.
• Strong understanding of cupola operations, including chemistry adjustments, slag management, and troubleshooting.
• Excellent attention to detail and commitment to maintaining safety and quality standards.
• Ability to perform physically demanding tasks in a hot, noisy, and dusty environment.
• Strong communication and coordination skills to work effectively with operators, supervisors, and maintenance teams.
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting operational data and chemistry analyses.
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) and always follow safety rules/procedures.
• Excellent attendance and punctuality.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits.
• Long-term employment with a company committed to its people and their success.
• Supportive team that values trust, teamwork, and open communication.
• Opportunity to contribute to meaningful work that supports critical infrastructure and community development.

Pay

$29.75/hour to $33.67/hour depending on experience

Schedule

Two shift options available:

• 1st Shift: 3:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Monday–Friday
• 2nd Shift: 3:00 PM - 3:00 AM, Monday–Friday