What are the responsibilities and job description for the Furnace Engineer position at Libbey?
OVERVIEW
The Furnace Engineer is responsible for the long-term global batch and furnace operations of Libbey’s glass plants. Responsibilities include making sure that the furnaces are melting glass safely, and the production stops align with Libbey’s long range plan. The Furnace Engineer helps with the design of the furnaces and supports on site furnace rebuild projects. This position will advise on design improvements for furnace life and energy reduction.
Our desired candidate is a collaborative team player with a CI mindset and the ability to effectively manage multiple projects, work with little or no technical guidance, and possess strong problem-solving skills and excellent communication skills.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- FURNACE LIFE:
- Development and execution of a strategy for the long(est) life of the glass furnaces in line with Libbey’s Long Range Strategic Plan.
- Responsible for all yearly furnace inspections/audits within Libbey global including the report out
- Responsible for the tracking and report out of the safety factor of Libbey’s glass furnaces throughout the year
- Ensure, together with the leadership of Global Engineering, that the furnace rebuilds keep in line with Libbey's strategic plan
- Organize and support the plants, concerning maintenance matters of furnace and furnace equipment
- ENERGY:
- Track the energy consumption of all Libbey furnaces and reports outs.
- Advise the internal furnace design group, at rebuilds to implement further energy reduction measures
- CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT, PROCESS CONTROL & TRAINING:
- Identify, develop and train people for Libbey’s global batch and furnace Center of Excellence to maintain knowledge and competencies.
- Provide support and advice to the plants, on the best possible way to operate the furnace processes, by implementing operating procedures and introducing best ways to work, to ensure long furnace life and acceptable glass quality for lowest cost of ownership
- Develop, implement, and maintain policies, procedures, standard work, and associated training plans for the plants/ teams / Center of Excellence.
- Conduct yearly the Glass Leak training course to the teams in the plants.
- DESIGN & REBUILDS:
- Develop/design furnace assemblies, layouts, details, steel design and as-builts using AutoCAD and 3D
- Assist with mechanical systems such as stirrers, batch chargers, batch conveyors, batch house revisions
- Assist occasionally with refractory inspections.
- Provide accurate and complete documentation including scopes of work, specifications, BOMs and bid packages for various projects
- Provide job site supervision during furnace/forehearth construction and hot repairs
REQUIREMENTS & QUALIFICATIONS
- Degree in Materials Science, Ceramic Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or other related Engineering degree
- Minimum 10 years of related work in batch and furnace operations at different locations.
- 5 years of experience managing technical teams, including proven experience coaching and directing technical people in various roles within a project-driven organization.
- Comprehensive knowledge of the glass melting process, glass chemistry and refractories.
- Occasional, required domestic and international travel for project work, training, or other business-related purposes, up to 30%
- Off hours can vary outside what would be considered normal business hours depending on project needs and geographic location (Asia/Americas).
- Capable of staying abreast of innovative technologies and industry trends for raw materials and furnace melting processes.
- Excellent communication and presentation (verbal and written) skills with the ability to relate well to associates throughout all levels of the organization including presentations.
- Ability to lead and influence all levels and across the organization and drive continuous improvement and technology advancement.
- Must demonstrate the ability to work in a manufacturing production environment exposed to heat, noise, heights and required to wear protective and safety equipment at all times
- Ability to delegate, assign, and oversee tasks within the department and across project teams.
- Ability to inspire others to create a CI mindset in Libbey’s B&F organization.
- Ability to develop formal performance and development goals, measure/track results
- Safety in the batch houses, glass melting processes, in the factories and office environment.
- Consistently exhibit Libbey Values in all interactions.
- Work with plant teams to drive towards common goals/objectives.
- Work closely with associates from other departments and cross-functional project teams.
- Works with other companies including suppliers, customers, and contractors.
