Commercial Roofing Kettle Operator

Job Title: Commercial Roofing Kettle Operator
Location: Pittsburgh, PA
Employment Type: Full-Time Hourly Field-Based
Pay: $26.00 - $36.00 per hour, depending on experience and certifications

Position Summary
We're looking for an experienced Kettle Operator to run hot asphalt operations on built-up and modified bitumen roofing projects throughout the Pittsburgh metro. This is a hands-on field role for someone who understands hot work, respects the equipment, and keeps the crew supplied and safe. Mechanical aptitude is a strong plus - the person who can troubleshoot a kettle pump or a generator on site keeps the whole job moving, and we pay for that skill set.

At J.R. & Co., Inc., we're not just building roofs - we're building careers. Established in 1986 and proudly veteran-owned, we're an energetic, optimistic, and family-oriented construction company based in Kansas City, MO. While roofing is our specialty, our services span everything from sheet metal and solar panel installation to rooftop maintenance and disaster relief. With a reputation for excellence in workmanship and customer service, we’ve earned recognition from top industry manufacturers and an A+ rating from the BBB. If you're looking for a place to grow, thrive, and make a real impact while working in a safety-focused, supportive environment, J.R. & Co., Inc. is the place for you. Join our team today and help us build something great!

What You'll Do

• Operate, monitor, and maintain the asphalt kettle throughout the workday, including startup, temperature control, and safe shutdown


• Maintain asphalt at proper EVT (equiviscous temperature) and monitor against flash point at all times


• Load asphalt kegs/blocks, manage propane supply, and keep material flowing to the roof via pump, hoist, or lugger


• Perform daily equipment inspections and routine maintenance on kettles, pumps, hoses, generators, and small engines


• Maintain fire watch, keep extinguishers staged and inspected, and enforce the hot work safety zone


• Set up and break down the ground-level work area, including traffic control and barricades


• Assist the roofing crew with material handling, tear-off, and installation as needed


• Follow all OSHA, company, and site-specific safety requirements without exception

What You Need

• Proven experience operating a roofing kettle on commercial job sites


• OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification (current)


• Working knowledge of hot asphalt safety, including flash point, EVT, and burn prevention


• Ability to repetitively lift and carry 100+ lbs throughout the shift


• Ability to work outdoors year-round through Western PA winters, heat, and varying conditions, and to stand, bend, climb, and carry for extended periods


• Reliable transportation and consistent, on-time attendance


• Valid driver's license

What Sets You Apart

• Mechanical or equipment maintenance background (small engine, hydraulic, diesel, or fleet repair) — top of our pay range is reserved for operators who can also service the equipment


• Experience with BUR and modified bitumen systems


• Experience on tight urban sites


• Powered Industrial Truck / forklift certification

Compensation

• $26.00 - $36.00 per hour, based on experience, certifications, and mechanical skill


• Overtime available

What We Offer

• Health, dental, and vision insurance


• 401(k) with company match


• Paid time off and paid holidays


• Company-provided training and certifications


• Career Advancement

Location

• Pittsburg, PA

Ready to Apply?
Apply today or call our recruiting team. J.R. & Co. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.