Melt Shop Operator

About the role

Gerdau is hiring a Melt Shop Operator in Petersburg, Virginia, within its Production & Operations area. The operator maintains and stocks consumables for the furnace, handles general housekeeping including 5S and cleaning, assists other furnace operators and may collect and run slag samples. The position is paid at $70,000 per year, with a base hourly rate of $21.16 rising to $22.87 after 90 days, plus biweekly production bonus, shift premiums and 354 hours of annual scheduled overtime.

Key responsibilities

• Unload trucks and stock supplies and/or consumables.
• Operate and stock the temperature and sampling device used to take temperatures, oxygen readings and steel samples.
• Clean out slag pots and pits with shovels and water as needed.
• Assist in maintaining refractory (patching or gunning).
• Maintain the runner and tap hole.
• Build and add electrodes.
• Record data in production systems and communicate with team members.

Required profile

• Must pass an entrance exam.
• 1 to 3 years of industrial or manufacturing experience, including operating heavy mobile equipment.
• Flexibility to work a rotating 12-hour shift covering days, nights and weekends.
• Physical ability to climb stairs and ladders, work in cramped quarters and heights, tolerate extreme temperatures, and lift up to 50 lbs.
• Desire to learn new roles and grow with the company.

Required skills

• Working knowledge of manufacturing tools and procedures.
• Detail-oriented, able to organize and prioritize.
• Ability to read, write and follow instructions.
• Ability to use simple specifications, dials and gauges to regulate electricity and water flow.

What we offer

• Medical, prescription, dental and vision plans eligible on the first day of hire.
• Flexible spending account and 100% matching 401K up to 6%.
• Life and accidental life insurance, paid parental leave and health advocate services.
• Employee assistance program and tuition reimbursement.
• Career path system and training.