Furnace Operator (Blast Furnace)
ろぜんこう
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Manufacturing job that charges raw materials such as iron ore and coke into a blast furnace and performs melting and pig iron production. Monitors and adjusts furnace interior temperature and pressure to ensure safe and efficient operation.
Description
Furnace operators (blast furnace) weigh and charge raw materials such as iron ore and coke into blast furnaces at steelworks, producing pig iron through melting and reduction reactions. They measure furnace interior temperature, pressure, and gas composition, adjusting air volume and raw material feed amounts to optimize operations. They tap out molten pig iron and slag, and handle quality control and safety management. Work is performed in high-temperature, high-pressure environments, so wearing heat-resistant clothing and strictly following safety procedures is essential. Equipment inspections, routine maintenance, and troubleshooting during abnormalities are also key responsibilities.
Future Outlook
While automation and IoT adoption in the steel industry will mechanize some tasks, skilled operators will continue to be needed.
Personality Traits
Calm and composed / Physically strong / Strong sense of responsibility / Team-oriented
Work Style
Factory work / Hazardous materials handling / Indoor heavy labor / Shift work
Career Path
Furnace Operator Apprentice → Furnace Operator → Furnace Leader → Blast Furnace Engineer → Steel Engineer → Factory Manager
Required Skills
Blast Furnace Operation / Mechanical Equipment Maintenance and Inspection / Raw Material Weighing and Charging / Safety Management / Temperature and Pressure Monitoring and Control
Recommended Skills
Crane Operation / Equipment Maintenance / Forklift Operation / Metallurgy / Quality Control
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Attention to detail is required to not miss minute changes in furnace temperature or pressure. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Frequent handling of heavy raw materials and long hours of standing work. |
| Problem Solving | Quick and accurate responses are required when abnormalities occur. |
| Stress Tolerance | Necessary to endure continuous work in high-temperature and noisy environments, as well as emergency responses. |
| Collaboration & Teamwork | Shift work and collaboration with multiple people are essential. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Procedures are predefined, and creative ideas are not particularly needed. |
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Few complex calculations; mainly involves reading instrument values. |
Related Jobs
- Foundry Worker
- Non-Ferrous Metal Smelter
- Steelmaker