Kiln Operator 1

The Kiln Operator operates the kiln system independently, ensuring proper temperatures, airflow, fuel ratios, and material throughput. Responsible for quality, efficiency, and safe operation during assigned shifts. Coordinates with the maintenance department for preventative tasks and minor repairs.

• Perform standard kiln operations for diatomaceous earth mills, including startup and shutdown procedures, product changes, in-process adjustments, and equipment maintenance.
• Operate the kiln safely and efficiently while supporting production and unit-cost goals, including fuel and electrical consumption, ore recovery, and other consumables.
• Adjust kiln and equipment controls and maintain appropriate temperatures and airflow to ensure products meet published specifications.
• Maintain accurate kiln operation logs.
• Monitor bin levels and product flow to maintain consistent operations.
• Visually inspect kilns for leaks, plug-ups, bridge-overs, mechanical issues, and other conditions that could affect production or cause unplanned downtime.
• Conduct workplace inspections throughout the plant, focusing on safety, maintenance, housekeeping, and operational concerns.
• Assist the foreman with crew responsibilities, including work assignments, safety meetings, employee call-outs, timecards, and required paperwork.
• Promote safe work practices, teamwork, and effective conflict resolution.
• Maintain knowledge of primary and secondary laboratory procedures, assist laboratory technicians as needed, collect product samples, and enter quality data into applicable systems.
• Maintain effective communication between shipping, maintenance, office, and production teams to support plant efficiency and operational goals.
• Assist with training new employees and continue developing knowledge across areas of responsibility.
• Troubleshoot issues affecting the production of quality products.
• Serve as Assistant Emergency Response Team Leader and maintain familiarity with the site emergency plan.
• Obtain and maintain CPR/First Aid certification.
• Collect samples from designated collection points throughout the mills.
• Conduct and document monthly safety audits to identify unsafe conditions and practices.
• Complete quality records as required by the Quality Management System and maintain awareness of applicable quality requirements.
• Attend required training classes.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

• High level of commitment to safety and quality.
• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work outdoors in all seasonal conditions, climb multiple levels using stairs and ladders, work from elevated platforms, and safely use hand tools such as shovels, hammers, and wrenches.
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to define problems, collect and analyze data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
• Ability to follow detailed written and verbal instructions and apply sound judgment in standardized situations.
• Ability to read and interpret SOPs, safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
• Ability to write routine reports and correspondence and communicate effectively with employees, customers, and vendors.
• Basic mathematical skills, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, decimals, ratios, rates, and percentages.
• Working knowledge of Windows and Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to learn and use Prism Solutions, IFS or other ERP/MRP systems, and related computer software.
• College degree and/or a minimum of three (3) years of related manufacturing experience or training.
• Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) knowledge.
• Forklift experience.
• Warehouse experience.
• Experience with computer software and ERP/MRP systems.