Heat Treatment Operator

Heat treatment operators are responsible for the operations and maintenance of machines and furnaces that apply heat treatments to change the properties of metals used in the production process. These are then used in the manufacturing of vehicles, aircraft, trains, oil rigs and specialised items for the armed forces. Some are small components, such as gear wheels.

Heat treatment operators use a range of equipment, including atmospheric and vacuum furnaces. They may be involved in setting times and temperatures, and in using conveyor rollers, hoists or fork lift trucks to load the components ready for the furnaces.

Typically working around 37 to 40 hours a week, heat treatment operators normally work shifts to provide 24-hour cover. They spend most of the time on their feet and occasionally they may have to lift and carry components, although this is usually carried out with the help of lifting equipment. Extractor fans remove harmful fumes, but the job may still involve working with hot furnaces and corrosive chemicals nearby. Operators are expected to wear safety clothing, which may include overalls, safety shoes, hard hats, eye shields, earplugs and gloves. This is normally provided by the employer.

Salaries range from around £18,000 a year to £40,000.

Heat treatment operators should:

• have excellent attention to detail
• have mathematical and written skills to set equipment, complete forms and write reports
• be aware of health and safety issues, and take them seriously
• be good team workers who enjoy working in a technical environment
• be fit enough to cope with active physical work
• have a flexible attitude to doing a range of different jobs.

Working in various areas of the metals industry, they are also employed in the manufacturing, engineering, construction, aerospace, defence, automotive and petrochemical sectors. Jobs are still mainly in the areas traditionally connected with the steel industry, in particular the Midlands and Yorkshire. There are also opportunities in north-west and south-east England, parts of Scotland, and London and Belfast.

Entrants usually start by pursuing an Apprenticeship. Formal qualifications are not necessary, although GCSEs (A*-C) in English, maths, ICT and science may be useful. The Diplomas in engineering and manufacturing and product design may be relevant for this area of work.

Training is generally on the job and usually involves shadowing experienced members of staff under supervision. Employers provide training courses in relevant key skills, such as health and safety awareness, and emergency first aid.

Apprenticeships lead to an NVQ at Level 2, an Advanced Apprenticeship to an NVQ at Level 3 and often to technical certificates, such as a BTEC National Certificate or Diploma. Key Skills and industry awareness are also including in the training.

There may be opportunities for heat treatment operators to progress to technician or supervisory level.

Further details