Kiln Attendant

Lhoist; United States; On-site; USD 42,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Lhoist North America is seeking a Kiln Attendant to support the Kiln Systems Technician and ensure the safe, efficient operation of kiln and plant equipment. You will monitor operating conditions, communicate concerns, and assist with corrective actions under the KST.

You will collect process and product samples for Quality Control testing to ensure product quality and compliance with specifications. Join a safety‑driven team where you’ll perform routine inspections, assist in maintenance, and

Qualifications

• Strong commitment to safety, environmental compliance, and housekeeping standards.
• Ability to work safely in hot, dusty industrial environments.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and adapt to changing priorities.

Responsibilities

• Safety & compliance with MSHA, federal, state, and local regulations.
• Operate kiln, hydrator, ball mill, and related plant equipment safely.
• Monitor and inspect water pumps, piping, and water flow.
• Inspect kiln bearings and cooling water systems and report abnormalities.
• Monitor process control equipment to maintain material flow and production rates.
• Collect product samples for quality control testing and analysis.
• Perform housekeeping duties throughout the plant and support operations.

Job description

At Lhoist North America, our core values of Respect, Courage, and Integrity are more than words. We respect people, encourage courageous innovation, and uphold integrity in everything we do. If these principles resonate with you, you may find your next great opportunity with us.

We believe our people make the difference. That's why we invest in talent by offering meaningful opportunities to grow your skills, expand your knowledge, and pursue your interests. Our work environment prioritizes safety, fosters collaboration across teams, and embraces inclusion. Here, you'll be challenged to grow, and you'll be supported throughout your career journey. Join us and help shape the future of Lhoist North America.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Kiln Attendant performs routine operational duties in support of the Kiln Systems Technician (KST) to help ensure the safe, efficient, and continuous operation of kiln and plant equipment. Working closely with the KST, the Kiln Attendant monitors operating conditions, communicates equipment performance and process concerns, and responds appropriately to upset conditions and instrument malfunctions. Through frequent visual inspections and equipment checks, the Kiln Attendant identifies potential issues and assists in corrective actions under the direction of the KST. The Kiln Attendant also collects process and product samples for Quality Control testing to help ensure product quality and compliance with established specifications.

RESPONSIBILITIES & EXPECTATIONS

1. Safety & Compliance
   • Maintain compliance with all company, MSHA, federal, state, and local safety regulations, policies, procedures and environmental requirements at all times.
   • Consistently wear and properly use all required PPE, including but not limited to hard hat, safety goggles, hearing protection, steel-toe/metatarsal boots, gloves, high-visibility clothing, and respiratory protection as required.
   • Follow all safety procedures related to lockout/tagout (LOTO), confined space entry, hot work, and working at heights.
   • Immediately report safety hazards, near misses, incidents, or unsafe conditions to supervision.
   • Participate in pre-shift meetings, safety training, inspections, and job safety analyses (JSAs).
   • Complete all required shift reports, equipment inspections, downtime logs, and operational records accurately and in accordance with company standards.
2. Equipment Operation & Process Monitoring
   • Support the safe, efficient, and continuous operation of kiln, hydrator, ball mill, and associated plant equipment.
   • Learn, understand, and follow established operating procedures for hydrators, kiln systems, pollution control equipment, and related processes.
   • Monitor and inspect water pumps, piping systems, and water flow to ensure proper operation.
   • Inspect kiln bearings and cooling water systems and report any abnormalities.
   • Monitor process control equipment to maintain proper material flow and production rates.
   • Verify that products are conveyed, stored, and loaded into the appropriate designated bins and storage locations.
   • Inspect auxiliary engines and related equipment to ensure proper fuel, oil, lubrication, and operating conditions.
   • Safely and efficiently operate mobile equipment, including front-end loaders, skid steers (Bobcats), forklifts, and other assigned equipment.
3. Equipment Inspection, Maintenance & Reliability
   • Inspect, monitor, and maintain spray compressors, N3 lances, baghouses, dust collectors, feed chutes, rams, elevators, conveyors, and other assigned equipment.
   • Identify equipment deficiencies, including dust collection and pollution control issues, and assist with corrective actions as needed.
   • Monitor and maintain sump systems to ensure proper drainage and prevent operational disruptions.
   • Maintain cleanliness and proper operation of belt scales, rollers, and related equipment.
   • Maintain coal mill discharge areas and other assigned process areas in a clean and safe condition.
4. Quality Control Support
   • Obtain product samples as required for quality testing and analysis.
   • Measure and document material inventories in feed, product, and storage bins as required.
   • Communicate quality or operational concerns to supervision and laboratory personnel as needed.
5. Housekeeping & Operational Support
   • Perform housekeeping duties throughout the plant, including cleaning hoppers, bins, conveyors, catwalks, work platforms, and other assigned areas.
   • Remove material accumulations and respond to plug-ups to support safe and efficient plant operations.
   • Support production and operational activities as assigned.
   • Perform other duties as assigned to support safe and efficient plant operations.

REQUIRED ATTRIBUTES

• Strong commitment to safety, environmental compliance, and housekeeping standards.
• Ability to work safely in hot, dusty, noisy industrial environments.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and adapt to changing priorities.
• Ability to work eff