Sunnen Products Company
Heat Treat Operator
St. Louis, Missouri•Full-time
About the Job
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.
About Sunnen Products Company
Founded in 1924 by Joseph Sunnen, our roots are in the US, but our reach extends around the world. At Sunnen, we recognize the world runs on precision and we pride ourselves on our quality products, exceptional customer service, and highly valued employees. We’re looking to invest in our next 100 years and we are seeking results-driven, excited candidates that are interested in working for a company with a long legacy and a bright future!
At Sunnen Products Company, we’re proud to say that our average length of service is nearly 20 years! We’re an equal opportunity employer focused on providing a friendly, family-oriented atmosphere for those in search of a challenging and highly rewarding career.
Apply today to join Sunnen Products Company in our mission to deliver solutions that improve the performance of our customers.
At Sunnen Products Company, we’re proud to say that our average length of service is nearly 20 years! We’re an equal opportunity employer focused on providing a friendly, family-oriented atmosphere for those in search of a challenging and highly rewarding career.
Apply today to join Sunnen Products Company in our mission to deliver solutions that improve the performance of our customers.