Kiln Fireman

Job Summary

The Kiln Fireman operates, monitors, and adjusts tunnel kilns to ensure brick is properly dried and fired according to production and quality standards. Responsibilities include monitoring kiln temperatures, firing trends, burners, kiln cars, dryers, trams, and related equipment; making adjustments to maintain proper firing conditions; completing required records; and promptly reporting abnormal conditions or equipment concerns. The position performs inspections, assists with maintenance, and works with supervisors and production personnel to maintain safe, efficient, continuous operations.

Essential Job Functions

• Receive shift turnover information and review the Burning Logbook with the Burning Supervisor.
• Monitor kiln temperatures, firing data, burner performance, and operating conditions throughout the shift. Review temperature trends at least 3–5 times per shift and report abnormalities immediately.
• Adjust burners, valves, and related equipment to maintain proper firing conditions and product quality.
• Inspect burners, fans, kiln cars, holding rooms, pre-dryers, dryers, and related equipment.
• Inspect green brick and kiln cars before each dryer and kiln tunnel; make minor stack adjustments as needed.
• Operate electric/hydraulic transfer cars (trams) to safely move and position kiln cars. Verify alignment and remain alert for employees, equipment, and obstructions.
• Return empty kiln cars to designated tracks and maintain kiln sand seals as needed.
• Complete production records, inspections, equipment logs, and required documentation accurately.
• Assist with confined space entries by following procedures, permits, atmospheric testing requirements, and all safety requirements.
• Immediately report equipment malfunctions, damaged kiln cars, abnormal conditions, production concerns, and safety hazards.
• Assist Maintenance with troubleshooting, preventive maintenance, and repairs.
• Maintain a clean, organized work area and perform other duties as assigned.

Physical Requirements

• Stand and walk for extended periods; frequently bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, squat, twist, reach, climb stairs, and occasionally climb ladders/elevated platforms.
• Frequently lift, carry, push, and pull tools, materials, and equipment; lift up to 50 lbs. frequently and up to 100 lbs. occasionally with assistance.
• Safely work in confined spaces and elevated temperatures.
• Use hands/arms to operate valves, controls, trams, tools, and equipment.
• Visually inspect equipment, burners, brick, gauges, flames, and warning indicators; distinguish colors and hear alarms, machinery, radios, and verbal communication.
• Wear required PPE, including safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, hard hat, and steel-toe boots.

Work Environment

Industrial manufacturing environment with exposure to heat, dust, steam, noise, vibration, airborne particulates, and moving equipment. Work may include confined spaces and areas around kilns, dryers, conveyors, trams, and fans. PPE is required.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Ability to read and follow safety procedures, work instructions, operating instructions, and production documentation; basic mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills; ability to monitor temperatures and equipment, identify abnormal conditions, complete records, communicate effectively, work independently, and prioritize safety, quality, and efficiency.

Education & Experience

High School Diploma/GED, manufacturing or industrial experience, and basic mechanical aptitude preferred. Equivalent education, training, and experience may be considered.

Schedule

Day and night shifts available. Three 12-hour shifts and one 6-hour shift per week. Weekend, holiday, overtime, and varying schedules may be required based on production needs.

Safety Requirements

Must follow all company safety policies, complete required training, wear PPE, report unsafe conditions, injuries, equipment malfunctions, abnormal temperature trends, and production concerns, and participate in safety meetings.

Essential Functions, Accommodation & Disclaimer

Cherokee Brick & Tile Company provides reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the ADA. Employees must perform essential functions with or without accommodation and should contact Human Resources for assistance.

This description summarizes the general nature of the position and is not a complete list of duties or qualifications. Responsibilities may change as business needs require.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Cherokee Brick & Tile Company is an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.