Job Title: Powder Milling Technician
Department: Powder Processing
Reports To:Powder Lead
Position Summary:
The Powder Milling Technician is responsible for operating and maintaining ceramic powder processing equipment to produce high-quality materials used in manufacturing operations. This role includes weighing, milling, sieving, drying, and classifying ceramic powders according to precise specifications. The technician ensures consistent product quality through adherence to process parameters, cleanliness standards, and safety regulations. The ideal candidate demonstrates strong attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, and a commitment to producing high-purity ceramic materials for downstream processes.
Key Responsibilities:
- Material Preparation and Milling:
- Weigh and measure raw ceramic materials according to batch formulas and process instructions.
- Operate ball mills and other powder milling equipment to achieve desired particle size and distribution.
- Monitor and record milling parameters such as speed, time, and media type to ensure process consistency.
- Handle powder loading, unloading, and transfer between equipment while minimizing contamination and material loss.
- Screening, Sieving, and Classification:
- Perform sieving and classification of milled powders to achieve target size ranges and uniformity.
- Inspect powders visually and through sampling to verify quality, flowability, and homogeneity.
- Maintain documentation for all batches, including lot numbers, weights, and inspection results.
- Identify and segregate nonconforming materials and report quality deviations to supervision or quality personnel.
- Equipment Operation and Maintenance:
- Clean, inspect, and maintain milling equipment, screens, and tools to prevent cross-contamination between batches.
- Perform basic maintenance, lubrication, and calibration checks as scheduled.
- Assist maintenance personnel in troubleshooting or repairing milling systems as needed.
- Ensure all tools, fixtures, and process areas are properly organized and maintained.
- Quality and Process Control:
- Follow established operating procedures (SOPs) and maintain strict adherence to quality standards.
- Collect and label powder samples for quality control testing.
- Record process data accurately in production logs and batch records.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives to optimize milling performance and reduce waste.
- Safety and Compliance:
- Follow all safety regulations and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) including respirators, gloves, and eye protection.
- Operate dust collection systems properly to maintain clean air and safe work conditions.
- Handle ceramic powders safely to minimize airborne dust and contamination.
- Participate in safety meetings and report potential hazards or incidents promptly.
Qualifications:
- High school diploma or equivalent required; technical training in manufacturing or materials processing preferred.
- Prior experience in ceramics manufacturing, powder processing, or milling operations preferred.
- Basic understanding of mechanical systems and process controls.
- Ability to read and follow batch sheets, work instructions, and safety procedures.
- Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
- Basic math and measurement abilities for weighing and recording materials.
- Comfortable working with fine powders and in controlled environments.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to stand, walk, and perform manual tasks for extended periods.
- Frequent lifting of materials and containers up to 50 lbs.
- Manual handling of powder containers, milling media, and equipment components.
- Work in moderate noise and dust conditions (PPE provided).
Work Environment:
- Manufacturing and milling environment with exposure to raw materials, moving machinery, and fine powders.
- Frequent interaction with production, quality control, and maintenance teams.
- Requires adherence to strict cleanliness, contamination control, and safety standards.
- May require overtime or flexible scheduling to support production needs
