Production Operations

Job Description: Spray Tundish Technician

Location: Cleveland Cliffs Middletown Ohio

Position Summary

The Spray Tundish Technician is responsible for preparing, maintaining, and applying refractory spray materials to tundishes used in continuous steel casting operations. This role ensures proper lining thickness, surface quality, and equipment reliability to support safe, efficient steel production. The technician will work inside an active steel mill and must follow strict safety protocols, quality standards, and production schedules.

Key Responsibilities

Tundish Preparation & Spraying

• Perform refractory spray lining of tundishes using mechanized or manual spray equipment.
• Ensure proper surface preparation prior to spraying (cleaning, drying, preheating as required).
• Apply spray mix to required thickness and quality specifications.
• Inspect finished linings for cracks, adhesion issues, and structural integrity.
• Document spray parameters, material usage, and completion of each tundish.

Equipment Operation & Maintenance

• Operate tundish spray machines, pumps, mixers, and related tools.
• Conduct routine checks and basic maintenance on spray equipment (hoses, nozzles, pumps, etc.).
• Report equipment malfunctions and assist with troubleshooting.
• Maintain all tools, PPE, and work areas in safe operating condition.

Safety & Compliance

• Follow all steel mill safety protocols, including PPE, lockout/tagout, fall protection, and hot‑work rules.
• Maintain awareness of hazards related to high heat, molten metal, refractory dust, heavy equipment, and confined spaces.
• Participate in safety meetings, audits, and required training.

Collaboration & Communication

• Coordinate with casting operations, maintenance teams, and refractory supervisors.
• Communicate tundish readiness status and any quality concerns.
• Work effectively within a shift team under demanding production timelines.

Qualifications

Required

• High school diploma or equivalent (GED)
• Ability to operate industrial equipment safely.
• Mechanical aptitude and ability to perform basic equipment maintenance.
• Willingness to work in high‑temperature areas around molten steel processes.
• Ability to lift 50+ lbs and perform physically demanding tasks.

Preferred

• Prior experience in tundish spray operations, refractory installation, or steel melt shop work.
• Forklift or mobile equipment certification.
• Knowledge of refractory materials and steelmaking processes.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong attention to detail and quality.
• Ability to follow precise instructions and production schedules.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Mechanical troubleshooting skills.
• Strong safety awareness and discipline.

Work Environment

• Steel mill environment with exposure to heat, dust, noise, chemicals, and heavy machinery.
• Requires use of PPE including heat‑resistant gear, respirators, face shields, and safety boots.
• Shift work, weekends, overtime, and on‑call rotation may be required based on production demands.

Physical Requirements

• Standing, bending, kneeling, and climbing for extended periods.
• Ability to handle hoses, spray equipment, and refractory materials.
• Work in tight or elevated spaces as necessary.