Annealing operator
やきなましこう
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Specialist who heats and holds metal parts or steel materials to a specified temperature, performs slow cooling to remove internal stresses, and improves mechanical properties.
Description
The annealing operator loads metal materials into a furnace, heats them to a specified temperature to remove internal stresses and homogenize the structure. Manages temperature, holding time, and atmosphere (gas or vacuum), and appropriately softens the metal through slow cooling or air cooling. Operations are performed using batch furnaces or continuous furnaces, utilizing furnace control panels or automatic control devices. Quality is checked with instruments such as hardness testers, and important tasks also include creating process records, cleaning and maintaining the furnace, and wearing safety equipment.
Future Outlook
Demand is flat to declining due to the overseas relocation of manufacturing and advances in automation. However, heat treatment engineers with high skills and expertise are stably in demand. With the adoption of IoT/smart factories, the value of engineers with data analysis skills increases.
Personality Traits
Cautious / High safety awareness / Meticulous / Strong sense of responsibility
Work Style
Factory work / Indoor manufacturing / Night shifts available / Shift work / Uniform and protective gear required
Career Path
Junior heat treatment worker → Heat treatment engineer → Heat treatment process leader → Production technology engineer → Factory manager
Required Skills
Atmosphere control / Crane and forklift operation / Furnace operation / Metallography / Operation of measuring instruments / Quality control
Recommended Skills
Material testing / Microscope observation / Optimization of heat treatment conditions / PLC basic knowledge / Quality control
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because subtle adjustments in temperature and time management directly affect quality. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Due to high-temperature work in front of the furnace and handling of heavy metal parts. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | The work follows prescribed procedures, so creativity is not particularly required. |
Aliases
- Annealing worker
Related Jobs
- Heat treatment engineer
- Manufacturing operator
- Metal finisher
- Quenching worker