Operator Furnace

About the Role

Al Tuwairqi Group is seeking a Furnace Operator to join their team in Dammam. This full-time role involves the precise execution of heat sequences and charging control for a designated furnace, ensuring proper billet handling, continuous process monitoring, and strict adherence to all safety protocols. The ideal candidate will have 0-1 years of experience in a related field.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute heat sequences and charging control by reviewing daily plans, operating charging tables and roller tables to move billets, and using the cold billet pusher to charge billets at defined pitches.
• Visually inspect each billet for defects such as bending, cracks, or identification mismatches before charging, and report non-conforming billets.
• Record charging data accurately, including the time of first and last billet arrival, total billets charged per heat, and the number of short/separator or reusable billets. Document and communicate any deviations from the sequence.
• Monitor furnace temperatures from thermocouples in charging and soaking zones, reporting any abnormal readings or sensor failures immediately. Coordinate with the Senior Furnace Operator regarding charging rate adjustments.
• Maintain continuous communication with the Furnace Discharging Operator, Main Pulpit Operator, and Billet Handling Office to ensure operational alignment and address issues.
• Inform the Senior Furnace Operator or Shift-in-Charge promptly about any abnormal mechanical, electrical, or gas supply issues affecting charging operations.
• Perform basic operator-level checks on charging equipment, reporting any abnormalities to mechanical maintenance.
• Ensure the charging grid and surrounding areas are kept clean and free from obstructions to prevent hazards.

Safety and Emergency Response

• Adhere strictly to lock-out/tag-out (LOTO) and isolation procedures before any intervention involving moving parts.
• Immediately stop charging and secure the area in cases of mill line stoppage, furnace over-temperature, gas alarms, interlock activation, uncontrolled billet movement, or suspected mechanical failure.
• Participate in emergency drills related to gas leaks, fires, and furnace trip scenarios as defined by EHS and Loss Prevention.
• Support furnace shutdown activities by assisting in the safe removal of residual billets and ensuring equipment is cleared and parked safely.
• Assist in data collection for root cause analysis related to charging-side stoppages, billet sequencing errors, or yield losses.
• Participate in toolbox talks and refresher trainings on furnace operation, material identification, LOTO, and safe lifting/handling.
• Provide on-the-job guidance to new operators or helpers under the supervision of the Furnace Foreman.

Qualifications and Experience

• 0-1 years of experience in an operational or industrial setting, preferably with exposure to furnace operations or heavy machinery.
• Ability to understand and follow detailed operational procedures and safety protocols.
• Strong attention to detail for visual verification and data recording.
• Effective communication skills for coordinating with various teams and reporting issues.

Work Environment

This is a full-time position based in Dammam, requiring active participation in a dynamic industrial environment. The role involves working closely with other operators and maintenance teams to ensure continuous and safe furnace operations.