Kiln Engineer

Overview

As the Kiln Engineer, you’ll serve as the technical lead for all kiln operations at our state-of-the-art ceramic tile manufacturing facility in Loudon, TN. From automated drying and firing systems to real-time process optimization, this is a high-heat, high-precision environment where both engineering acumen and operational leadership are essential.

In this role, you’ll drive performance across safety, quality, throughput, and reliability metrics by overseeing all technical aspects of the kiln department. You’ll play a hands-on role in maintaining kiln equipment, improving thermal processes, reducing downtime, and partnering with leadership on capital projects and continuous improvement initiatives. This is a great opportunity for a mechanically or electrically minded engineer with kiln or high-temperature process experience to make a direct impact in a world-class facility.

This is a highly visible role, ideal for someone who thrives in complex manufacturing environments and takes pride in keeping critical operations running safely and efficiently.

Shift & Schedule

• Monday - Friday
• 8am - 5pm
• May require extended hours or weekends as needed for project support

Responsibilities

• Lead technical oversight of all kiln operations to ensure optimal performance and product quality
• Drive and implement preventive and predictive maintenance programs (PM, PdM, TPM) to reduce downtime and improve reliability.
• Analyze production metrics to identify trends, root causes, and opportunities for continuous improvement.
• Troubleshoot and resolve kiln-related issues in combustion, mechanical function, and temperature control.
• Collaborate with Production Supervisors and Italian counterparts to align on technical standards and best practices.
• Create and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), kiln firing programs, and maintenance documentation.
• Lead technical training sessions for kiln operators, supervisors, and cross-functional staff.
• Support the design and implementation of drying and curing systems on a national level.
• Oversee and contribute to capital projects including furnace rebuilds, upgrades, and new equipment installations.
• Evaluate and plan capital and operating expenditures to meet reliability and efficiency goals.
• Represent kiln operations in daily production meetings; communicate updates on performance and improvement initiatives.
• Fill in for the Kiln Supervisor during vacation or other absences as needed.
• Perform hands-on equipment inspections and coordinate work orders using CMMS systems.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Mechatronics, or a similar engineering discipline.
• Minimum 3 years of kiln or high-temperature process experience in a ceramic environment.
• Advanced technical skills in mechanical and/or electrical systems (e.g., PLCs, combustion, instrumentation).
• Strong understanding of reliability systems including preventive/predictive maintenance and TPM principles.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and familiarity with ERP/CMMS platforms (SAP preferred).
• Excellent problem-solving skills with the ability to troubleshoot complex systems under pressure.
• Strong communication and leadership skills across diverse teams.
• Capable of reading and interpreting technical reports, schematics, and engineering drawings.
• Able to lift up to 60 lbs and perform facility walkthroughs in high-heat environments.

Pay & Benefits

• Full-Time / Exempt
• Up to $85k (Salaried)

Relocation Assistance

• $3-5k stipend
• 30 days of hotel assistance

Benefits

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance