Caster Operator

Tenneco; Blacksburg (VA); On-site; USD 36,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

Tenneco is seeking a Casting Operator in Blacksburg, VA to operate casting machines and monitor production processes in a safe, efficient manner. You will load raw materials, perform start-up/shutdown, and document production activities in accordance with procedures.

The role emphasizes quality checks, adherence to safety practices, and collaboration with maintenance and quality teams to meet production goals in a regulated manufacturing environment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Experience in manufacturing or casting preferred.
• Ability to read production documents and work instructions.

Responsibilities

• Operate casting machines and monitor production equipment.
• Load raw materials and ensure product specifications.
• Perform start-up/shutdown and routine checks.
• Conduct visual inspections and basic measurements for quality.
• Maintain 5S housekeeping and safety compliance.

Skills

Reading work instructions

Quality awareness

Teamwork

Mechanical aptitude

Problem solving

Overtime capable

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Calipers

Measuring devices

Job description

Position Summary

The Casting Operator is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining casting equipment used in the production of quality components in a safe and efficient manner. This position ensures compliance with production requirements, quality standards, safety regulations, and established operating procedures while supporting continuous improvement initiatives within the manufacturing environment.

• Operate casting machines and related production equipment according to established work instructions and safety procedures.
• Load raw materials and monitor casting processes to ensure product specifications are met.
• Perform equipment start-up, shutdown, and routine operational checks.
• Monitor machine performance and make necessary adjustments to maintain quality and production standards.
• Conduct visual inspections and basic measurements to verify product quality.
• Identify and segregate defective materials or products in accordance with quality procedures.
• Complete required production, quality, and downtime documentation accurately and timely.
• Assist with troubleshooting minor equipment issues and notify maintenance personnel as needed.
• Perform routine cleaning and basic preventive maintenance activities.
• Maintain housekeeping standards in accordance with 5S and plant requirements.
• Follow all safety procedures, lockout/tagout requirements, and personal protective equipment (PPE) guidelines.
• Support continuous improvement, cost reduction, and waste elimination initiatives.
• Work collaboratively with supervisors, maintenance personnel, quality technicians, and team members to meet production goals.
• Train and assist new employees as requested.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Operate casting machines and related production equipment according to established work instructions and safety procedures.
• Load raw materials and monitor casting processes to ensure product specifications are met.
• Perform equipment start-up, shutdown, and routine operational checks.
• Monitor machine performance and make necessary adjustments to maintain quality and production standards.
• Conduct visual inspections and basic measurements to verify product quality.
• Identify and segregate defective materials or products in accordance with quality procedures.
• Complete required production, quality, and downtime documentation accurately and timely.
• Assist with troubleshooting minor equipment issues and notify maintenance personnel as needed.
• Perform routine cleaning and basic preventive maintenance activities.
• Maintain housekeeping standards in accordance with 5S and plant requirements.
• Follow all safety procedures, lockout/tagout requirements, and personal protective equipment (PPE) guidelines.
• Support continuous improvement, cost reduction, and waste elimination initiatives.
• Work collaboratively with supervisors, maintenance personnel, quality technicians, and team members to meet production goals.
• Train and assist new employees as requested.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

Education

• High school diploma or GED preferred.

Experience

• Previous manufacturing, foundry, casting, or machine operation experience preferred.
• Experience working in a fast-paced production environment is beneficial.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Ability to read production documents and work instructions.
• Basic understanding of quality inspection methods and measuring devices.
• Ability to recognize process abnormalities and report issues promptly.
• Strong attention to detail and quality standards.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work overtime and varying shifts as required.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Frequently lift, push, pull, and carry materials up to 50 pounds.
• Frequent bending, reaching, twisting, and repetitive hand movements.
• Ability to work in environments with elevated temperatures, noise, dust, and moving machinery.
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment, including safety glasses, hearing protection, heat-resistant gloves, and steel-toed footwear.

Work Environment

• Manufacturing and foundry environment.
• Exposure to heat, noise, vibration, dust, and industrial equipment.
• Requires compliance with all company safety, environmental, and quality standards.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Safety compliance and incident prevention.
• Production output attainment.
• Scrap and rework reduction.
• Quality performance and defect rates.
• Attendance and reliability.
• Adherence to standard operating procedures.
• Participation in continuous improvement activities.

Core Competencies

• Safety Focus
• Quality Orientation
• Teamwork and Collaboration
• Accountability
• Problem Solving
• Continuous Improvement Mindset
• Reliability and Dependability

Equal Opportunity Statement

Tenneco is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing a safe, productive, and inclusive work environment for all employees.