Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Hot Rolling Technician

🎯 Role Definition

As a Hot Rolling Technician, you are the backbone of our steel production process. You will transform raw steel slabs into precision-engineered products, directly impacting the quality and success of our finished goods. This role requires a blend of technical expertise, vigilant attention to detail, and a steadfast commitment to safety and operational excellence within a fast-paced, heavy industrial environment. You will be a key player in a team dedicated to efficiency, quality, and continuous improvement in one of the most critical sectors of modern industry.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Mill Helper or Utility Person
Production Associate (Heavy Industry)
Mechanical Maintenance Apprentice

Advancement To:

Lead Rolling Technician or Shift Lead
Rolling Mill Supervisor
Operations or Production Manager

Lateral Moves:

Quality Control (QC) Inspector
Maintenance Technician (Mechanical or Electrical)

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Safely and efficiently operate and monitor complex hot rolling mill equipment, including reheat furnaces, roughing stands, finishing mills, and downcoilers, to process steel slabs into finished coils or plates.
Interpret and execute detailed production schedules, ensuring adherence to specifications for steel grade, width, thickness, and temperature profiles.
Perform precise adjustments to mill controls, including speed, pressure, and roll gaps, using Human-Machine Interface (HMI) systems to maintain product quality and dimensional accuracy.
Conduct in-process quality inspections and measurements using micrometers, calipers, pyrometers, and other gauges to verify that products meet strict customer and industry standards.
Monitor all equipment gauges, dials, and control panels to detect any deviations from standard operating conditions and take immediate corrective action to prevent process interruptions or defects.
Operate overhead cranes, forklifts, and other heavy mobile equipment to safely transport steel slabs, coils, and necessary production materials throughout the mill.
Execute and document roll changes, guide set-ups, and other tooling adjustments between production runs to prepare the mill for different product specifications.
Actively participate in the implementation of the facility’s Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) program to ensure machinery is properly isolated and de-energized before performing any maintenance or setup tasks.
Troubleshoot operational and mechanical issues in real-time, diagnosing problems with mill stands, hydraulic systems, lubrication systems, and conveyors to minimize downtime.
Maintain detailed and accurate operational logs, including production data, quality checks, downtime reports, and maintenance activities, using computerized systems.
Collaborate closely with maintenance teams during planned shutdowns and unplanned outages to assist in repairs, replacements, and preventative maintenance activities.
Ensure the continuous flow of steel through the rolling process, coordinating with operators at preceding and succeeding stages (e.g., caster, finishing lines) to optimize overall plant efficiency.

Secondary Functions

Champion and consistently adhere to all company safety policies, procedures, and housekeeping standards to maintain a safe and clean working environment.
Participate actively in continuous improvement initiatives, suggesting process modifications to enhance safety, quality, productivity, and cost-effectiveness.
Assist in the training and mentoring of new or less experienced technicians, sharing knowledge of best practices and safe operating procedures.
Perform routine preventative maintenance tasks, such as lubrication, inspection of wear parts, and cleaning of equipment, as directed.
Monitor and manage the inventory of essential operating supplies, such as rolls, guides, and lubricants, communicating needs to supervisors for reordering.
Support the metallurgical team by collecting product samples for laboratory analysis and providing feedback on material behavior during the rolling process.
Respond effectively to emergency situations, such as cobbles (steel jams), equipment failures, or fires, by following established emergency action plans.
Engage in daily team meetings and pre-shift safety briefings to review production goals, discuss potential hazards, and align on the day's objectives.
Contribute to root cause analysis investigations for any safety incidents, quality deviations, or significant equipment failures.
Maintain a high level of awareness regarding the environmental impact of operations and comply with all environmental regulations and company policies.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Hot Rolling Mill Operations: In-depth knowledge of the entire hot rolling process from furnace to coiler.
HMI (Human-Machine Interface): Proficiency in operating and monitoring complex industrial control systems.
Precision Measuring Tools: Skilled in the use of micrometers, calipers, and gauges for quality assurance.
Overhead Crane Operation: Certified or experienced in safely operating bridge and gantry cranes for heavy lifts.
Lockout/Tagout (LOTO): Thorough understanding and practical application of energy isolation safety procedures.
Mechanical Aptitude: Strong ability to understand, troubleshoot, and assist with the repair of mechanical systems, hydraulics, and pneumatics.
Blueprint/Schematic Reading: Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and work orders.
Basic Computer Skills: Competency in using computer systems for data entry and reporting.

Soft Skills

Safety-First Mindset: An unwavering commitment to personal and team safety in a hazardous environment.
Problem-Solving: The ability to quickly diagnose issues under pressure and implement effective solutions.
Attention to Detail: Meticulous in monitoring equipment and product quality to prevent errors and defects.
Teamwork and Collaboration: Excellent interpersonal skills to work effectively with operators, maintenance, and supervisors.
Communication Skills: Ability to clearly and concisely communicate technical information and operational status.
Adaptability: Flexibility to work in a dynamic, 24/7 manufacturing environment, including rotating shifts, weekends, and holidays.
Resilience: Ability to remain calm and focused during high-stress situations like equipment breakdowns or production emergencies.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED equivalent.

Preferred Education:

Associate's Degree or Technical Certificate in a relevant field.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Industrial Technology
Manufacturing Engineering Technology
Mechanical Engineering Technology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 2-5+ years of hands-on experience in a heavy industrial, steel, or manufacturing environment.

Preferred: Direct experience operating or maintaining equipment in a hot rolling, cold rolling, or similar primary metals production facility is highly desirable.