Vaccuum Induction Melting (VIM) Setup Operator

About the Role

The VIM SETUP OPERATOR provides overall support of the raw material bay (receiving, loading and inventory tracking) and other related duties following established practices set forth in the Operating Procedures Manual and the Manufacturing Instructions Manual. Ellwood Quality Steels is a family‑owned business with a long‑range vision and is the world leader in the production of high‑quality carbon, alloy, stainless and tool steel ingot. The company emphasizes flexibility, responsiveness, and problem solving, continually invests in its people, process, and equipment, and maintains a highly trained workforce with state‑of‑the‑art equipment. A manufacturing environment where excellence is an everyday occurrence. Ellwood Quality Steels focuses on creating an environment of opportunity where you can grow your career, values diverse talents and the contributions of all employees, and offers competitive compensation, support for professional growth, and a range of employee benefits that protect the health and welfare of its people.

Responsibilities

• Under general supervision, provides overall support of raw material bay (receiving, loading and inventory tracking) and other related duties following established practices set forth in the Operating Procedures Manual and the Manufacturing Instructions Manual.
• Follow strict safety protocols, including handling molten metal, working with high‑temperature equipment, and wearing required PPE.
• Set up and prepare the Vacuum Induction Melting (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 staging and assembly of charge buckets, and all associated documentation working with VIM helper to complete the material charging
• Perform basic maintenance and cleaning of the VIM furnace (seals, view ports, TC & Sample ports)
• Assist in the operation of the VIM furnace, including loading primary charge, make‑up additions, taking chemistry samples, as directed by supervision
• Support quality control processes by assisting in sample collection and conducting basic inspections
• Maintain a clean and organized work environment to support safe operations
• Operate material handling equipment such as cranes, hoists, launder, and forklifts to transport materials and equipment safely
• Complete pre‑operational inspections for cranes, VIM furnace and ancillary equipment, and mobile equipment daily, as needed
• Must have ability to work independently in a fast‑paced, multitasking environment
• Abide by all policies and procedures established by the Company including plant safety regulations and work rules
• Must have ability and desire to work with others
• Meet attendance requirements
• Perform other duties as deemed necessary

Qualifications

• Education: High school diploma or GED