Ceramic Engineer
Location : Lenoir City, TN (Relocation Assistance Provided)
Compensation : Based on experience + 10% bonus potential
Schedule : Full-time, onsite
Why This Role Stands Out
- Full-time, salaried position with long-term stability
- Relocation assistance offered for the right candidate
- Strong support and hands-on training during the transition period - current engineer is nearing retirement
- Well-established manufacturer with advanced technology and a strong customer base
- Direct impact on product quality, process control, and oven performance
- Solid team, well-maintained equipment, and supportive leadership
- Work in a technically advanced facility focused on continuous improvement
What You'll Take On
We're looking for a skilled and hands-on Ceramic Engineer to join our team at a leading manufacturing facility in Tennessee. The current thermal processing expert is planning for retirement, and we're hiring someone now to train and take full ownership of the ovens department. This role is focused on firing processes; monitoring, adjusting, and optimizing how products are processed through large industrial ovens.
Key responsibilities include :
Oversee and optimize firing operations in high-temperature ovens (kilns) to meet quality and production targetsAdjust temperature profiles, burner controls, and oven curves based on product specsAnalyze data to improve throughput, minimize waste, and maintain consistent product outputDevelop standard operating procedures and ensure safe operating practices are followedTrain operators and technicians on thermal processing procedures and troubleshooting methodsLead continuous improvement projects to enhance oven performance and reduce downtimeCoordinate oven maintenance, rebuilds, and upgrades alongside the maintenance teamAct as the point person for all technical issues related to thermal processingUse ERP / CMMS systems to manage data, track performance, and plan maintenance schedulesWhat You'll Bring
Required : Minimum 3 years of experience working with ceramic materials in a manufacturing settingPreferred : BS in Ceramic Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related technical fieldStrong working knowledge of industrial ovens or kilns (e.g., Sacmi equipment or similar systems)Solid mechanical aptitude-comfortable with combustion systems, burners, fans, and controlsSkilled at using process data (e.g., temperature curves, firing durations) to make improvementsExperience writing SOPs and training staff in a production environmentConfident troubleshooting high-temperature processes and solving complex issuesComfortable working in a production plant with hands-on responsibilitiesPersonality Fit
Enjoys solving tough technical problems and being in the thick of daily operationsCalm under pressure and quick to take initiativeAble to train and lead others while still rolling up their sleevesValues accountability, clear communication, and collaborationReady to step into a key technical leadership role and grow with the teamIf you're a ceramic processing expert ready to take ownership of a vital department and play a key role in a growing, stable manufacturing environment-this could be your next move. Apply now to get the conversation started.
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