First Shift Kiln Operator: Firing, QC & Safety

Knowles; Northern (KY); Hybrid; USD 42,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental and vision insurance

401k plan with company match

Tuition Reimbursement Program

Employee Referral Program

Hourly Overtime opportunities

Paid Time Off

Paid Holidays

Free coffee at cafeteria

Employee Appreciation Events

Job summary

Knowles is seeking a Kiln Operator to operate and monitor firing kilns and related equipment, ensuring products meet specifications and quality standards. Responsibilities include reviewing orders, setting firing cycles, and maintaining accurate process records in a safe manufacturing environment.

The role requires a High School diploma or GED (preferred), basic computer skills, and the ability to read simple instructions.

Qualifications

• A High School diploma or general education degree (GED) is preferred.
• Demonstrate knowledge of manufacturing principles, practices, and procedures.
• Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions
• Computer Skills: Basic knowledge in computers, accessing email, training, and documents via company network.
• Ability to perform duties in accordance with policies and procedures.
• Ability to work in the line with minimal supervision.

Responsibilities

• Review work orders, production travelers, processing charts, and operating instructions to determine product specifications, firing requirements, and processing parameters.
• Establish and verify kiln firing cycles, schedules, temperature profiles, and operating settings in accordance with approved procedures and product requirements.
• Safely start up, operate, monitor, and shut down kilns, ovens, and related processing equipment.
• Monitor and control kiln temperature, humidity, ventilation, and other critical process variables to ensure compliance with established specifications.
• Read, interpret, and record data from gauges, controllers, data loggers, and monitoring systems; make process adjustments as required to maintain product quality.
• Continuously observe equipment operation and product condition to identify defects, process deviations, equipment malfunctions, or safety concerns.
• Perform routine inspections and minor preventative maintenance activities, including cleaning equipment, work areas, and accessible machine components.
• Report equipment issues, process abnormalities, quality concerns, and maintenance needs to the appropriate personnel in a timely manner.
• Maintain accurate manual and computerized production, process, quality, and inspection records in accordance with company procedures.
• Verify completed work meets quality standards and documented process requirements before releasing product to the next operation.
• Follow all safety, environmental, quality, and operational procedures, including the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Support continuous improvement initiatives by identifying opportunities to improve process efficiency, quality, safety, and equipment performance.
• Assist with training and cross-training activities as required.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support production and business objectives.

Skills

Manufacturing principles

Read & interpret instructions

Basic computer skills

Work with minimal supervision

Education

High School diploma or GED

Job description

Knowles is seeking a Kiln Operator to operate and monitor firing kilns and related equipment, ensuring products meet specifications and quality standards. Responsibilities include reviewing orders, setting firing cycles, and maintaining accurate process records in a safe manufacturing environment.

The role requires a High School diploma or GED (preferred), basic computer skills, and the ability to read simple instructions.