Job Details

Galvanizing Kettle Operator

The Galvanizing Kettle Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining the zinc kettle used in the hot-dip galvanizing process. This role ensures steel products are immersed, coated, and finished according to production standards, while maintaining strict safety and quality requirements.

Duties and Responsibilities

Kettle Operation

• Monitor, operate, and control the galvanizing kettle and related equipment.
• Maintain proper zinc bath temperature and chemical composition.
• Safely immerse and remove steel materials using hoists, cranes, or automated systems.
• Inspect products during the dipping process to ensure full coating coverage.

Quality Control

• Verify coating thickness and surface quality meet customer and industry standards (e.g., ASTM specifications).
• Identify defects such as bare spots, runs, ash, or inclusions and correct as needed.
• Record production data including temperatures, run times, and batch details.

Safety & Environmental Compliance

• Follow all hot-dip galvanizing safety protocols, including PPE use, fume control, and molten metal handling.
• Assist in spill prevention and proper zinc dross/ash removal.
• Conduct daily safety inspections of equipment and work area.
• Report hazards, near misses, or equipment issues immediately.

Equipment Care & Maintenance

• Skim dross and ash from the kettle as required.
• Assist maintenance staff in repairs, cleaning, and preventative maintenance.
• Keep hoists, chains, and fixtures in proper working condition.

Material Handling

• Coordinate with loading/unloading teams to ensure correct material sequencing.
• Attach, secure, and balance loads safely for dipping.
• Operate cranes, forklifts, or other material-handling equipment as needed (with proper certification).

Qualifications and Requirements

• Experience in industrial, foundry, metal fabrication, or galvanizing environments.
• Ability to operate cranes/hoists and lift heavy materials safely.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and understanding of molten metal safety.
• Ability to read work orders, gauges, and measurement tools.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work near high heat and molten metal.
• Standing, lifting (50+ lbs), bending, and working in PPE for extended periods.
• Exposure to fumes, noise, and industrial hazards (with provided protection).
• Ability to work shifts, overtime, and weekends as production requires.

Join our dedicated team at Southland Industrial Coatings and play a vital role in the successful completion of projects for the electric utility industry. Apply today and be part of our commitment to delivering exceptional steel fabrication services to the electric utility sector across the nation.

We offer a competitive salary and benefits (Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K).

Southland Industrial Coatings is an EEO employer.

Southland Industrial Coatings is a drug-free workplace. Position requires pre-employment screens.

Pay: $19.00 - $21.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person