Kiln Operator job description

About the job

We are looking for a kiln operator to run the kilns that fire tiles, bricks and sanitary ware and to control their firing curves, so products come out with the right strength, colour and size.

Duties and responsibilities

• Run the tunnel or roller kiln and set each zone's temperature to the firing curve
• Control the feed rate and the loading of kiln cars or rollers
• Watch gas or fuel use and adjust the burners
• Check products leaving the kiln for cracks, warping and colour variation
• Adjust the firing curve with the laboratory when defects appear
• Run the pre-kiln dryers and check product moisture
• Record temperatures, pressures, output and losses in the shift log
• Inspect refractories, burners and fans and report faults

Working conditions

• High heat near the kilns
• Round-the-clock shifts, as the kiln runs continuously

Requirements

• Intermediate diploma in industrial chemistry or mechanics from a technical institute
• 3 to 6 years of experience in operating ceramic or brick kilns

The years of experience follow the level you choose when posting.

Skills

• Tunnel kiln operation
• Roller kilns
• Firing curves
• Burner adjustment
• Ceramic defects
• Temperature instruments
• Heat safety

Preferred

• Experience in tile or clay brick plants
• Experience with programmable kiln controls