Heat Treat Operator

Job Description

Job Description

Sunnen is seeking a skilled and safety-conscious Heat Treat Operator to join our team. This position plays a key role in operating heat treatment equipment to modify the physical and mechanical properties of metal parts to meet stringent engineering and quality standards. The ideal candidate must demonstrate a strong commitment to safety, quality, and Lean Manufacturing principles, working proactively to maintain a clean, efficient, and hazard-free work environment while driving continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities:

The Heat Treat Operator will be responsible for delivering results that include the following:

• Follow all company safety protocols, personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements, lockout/tagout procedures, and hazard communication guidelines at all times.
• Conduct daily safety checks of equipment, tools, and workspace; immediately report unsafe conditions or near-miss incidents.
• Operate and monitor heat-treating equipment including furnaces, ovens, and quenching systems per SOPs and engineering requirements.
• Load/unload parts using proper lifting techniques and equipment (hoists, forklifts), ensuring safe handling and minimizing risk of injury or damage.
• Monitor time, temperature, and other process variables, ensuring adherence to specifications and safety limits.
• Record process data accurately and consistently using data collection systems and ensure traceability for all treated parts.
• Perform visual and mechanical inspections before and after heat treatment using precision tools (e.g., hardness testers, calipers, micrometers).
• Support and maintain 5S standards in the work area to promote cleanliness, organization, and safety.
• Actively participate in Kaizen, safety audits, and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance workflow and reduce risks.
• Collaborate with supervisors, maintenance, and engineering teams to resolve equipment issues promptly and safely.
• Contribute to a culture of safety awareness and accountability across all shifts and departments.

Position Qualification Requirements:

• Follow all company safety protocols, personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements, lockout/tagout procedures, and hazard communication guidelines at all times.
• Conduct daily safety checks of equipment, tools, and workspace; immediately report unsafe conditions or near-miss incidents.
• Operate and monitor heat-treating equipment including furnaces, ovens, and quenching systems per SOPs and engineering requirements.
• Load/unload parts using proper lifting techniques and equipment (hoists, forklifts), ensuring safe handling and minimizing risk of injury or damage.
• Monitor time, temperature, and other process variables, ensuring adherence to specifications and safety limits.
• Record process data accurately and consistently using data collection systems and ensure traceability for all treated parts.
• Perform visual and mechanical inspections before and after heat treatment using precision tools (e.g., hardness testers, calipers, micrometers).
• Support and maintain 5S standards in the work area to promote cleanliness, organization, and safety.
• Actively participate in Kaizen, safety audits, and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance workflow and reduce risks.
• Collaborate with supervisors, maintenance, and engineering teams to resolve equipment issues promptly and safely.
• Contribute to a culture of safety awareness and accountability across all shifts and departments.
• High school diploma/GED.

Required Skills and Abilities:

• Forklift and/or overhead crane certification.
• Experience with ISO 9001, AS9100, or NADCAP processes.
• Understanding of SPC (Statistical Process Control) and TPM (Total Productive Maintenance).
• Basic computer skills for data entry and ERP systems.

Sunnen offers a wide variety of benefits for our employees, such as:

• Competitive Insurance Coverage, eligible on the first of the month after hire date:

  • Medical (PPO and High Deductible Plan with Employer HSA Contribution)
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Life and AD&D
  • Accident
  • Critical Illness
  • Hospital Indemnity
• 401(k) Eligibility with Employer Match

• Company Paid Benefits:

  • Group Life and AD&D Insurance
  • Short Term Disability
  • Long Term Disability
  • Employee Assistance Program
• Competitive Vacation Policy
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Paid Plant Closure Between Christmas and New Year's Day

We require a background and SSN check, drug test, and physical for pre-employment.