Job Description

Heat Treat Operator

Worcester, Massachusetts, United States

About the Role

The Heat Treat Operator is responsible for operating and monitoring heat treatment furnaces and related equipment to ensure metal components meet required hardness, strength, and quality specifications. This contract to direct position supports 2nd and 3rd shift operations, with initial training conducted on 2nd shift. The role is ideal for a manufacturing professional with experience in metalworking, heat treatment, or metal finishing processes who thrives in a hands on, production driven environment.

Responsibilities

• Set and regulate furnace temperature controls according to process specifications and setup sheets.
• Position parts on racks, load furnaces, and monitor heating cycles to ensure proper temperature and cycle time.
• Visually inspect parts for foreign material or defects prior to processing.
• Respond to furnace alarms and troubleshoot basic process conditions to maintain continuous operation.
• Remove heated parts and perform quenching processes using oil, water, brine, or chemical baths.
• Operate related equipment such as batch furnaces, temper ovens, wash units, endothermic generators, and hardness testers.
• Perform basic dimensional and quality inspections using calipers, micrometers, gauge pins, and optical comparators.
• Read and interpret blueprints, setup sheets, and engineering specifications.
• Follow quality procedures, ISO requirements, and operational standards.
• Maintain safe work practices and comply with OSHA and environmental regulations.
• Report routing errors, material discrepancies, or specification issues to supervisors.
• Support production goals while maintaining consistent quality and process control.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Experience in a metalworking or manufacturing environment, preferably with heat treatment or metal finishing processes.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and setup documentation.
• Basic math skills and familiarity with Microsoft Excel.
• Experience working with PLC or CNC controlled machinery preferred.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a production environment.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow established procedures.
• Ability to lift 40 pounds unassisted and remain on feet for extended periods.
• Ability to communicate effectively in English.

Desired Qualifications

• Experience with batch furnaces, temper ovens, wash units, endothermic generators, hardness testers, or similar equipment.
• Previous experience in stamping, chain manufacturing, or metal fabrication environments.
• Familiarity with ERP systems such as Syteline.
• Experience supporting ISO compliant quality systems.
• Ability to adapt to changing production needs and work effectively on 2nd or 3rd shift schedules following training.

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