Metallurgist (Non-Ferrous Metal Smelting)
やきんこう（ひてつきんぞくせいれん）
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A job that manufactures high-purity metal ingots by melting, reducing, and electrolytically decomposing raw materials of non-ferrous metals (such as aluminum, copper, lead, and zinc).
Description
Non-ferrous metal smelting metallurgists use electric furnaces and melting furnaces to extract non-ferrous metals from ores or scrap, and manufacture high-purity metal ingots through processes such as melt reduction and electrolytic refining. The work requires management of furnace temperature and pressure, chemical composition analysis, and monitoring/control of process parameters, while operating in compliance with safety and environmental regulations. Much of the work takes place in high-temperature and high-pressure environments, and production lines are operated under a team shift system.
Future Outlook
While advances in automation and labor reduction will require operators to acquire advanced technical skills, demand is expected to continue or expand due to metal recycling and responses to environmental regulations.
Personality Traits
Attentive / Good team player / High concentration / Patient / Strong sense of responsibility
Work Style
Factory work / Indoor high-temperature work / Shift work / Team shift system
Career Path
Operator → Shift leader / Group leader → Process manager / Line manager → Process engineer → Plant manager
Required Skills
Compliance with safety and environmental regulations / High-temperature furnace operation / Process parameter monitoring and adjustment / Skills in chemical composition analysis (spectrophotometer, etc.) / Smelting process knowledge
Recommended Skills
Data analysis / Process automatic control system operation / Process improvement / Troubleshooting
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because precise temperature control and chemical composition management directly impact quality and safety. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Because it involves long hours of standing work and heavy labor. |
| Stress Tolerance | Because stress tolerance is required in high-temperature environments and for responses to emergencies. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Because there is a lot of work following standard operating procedures, opportunities for creative thinking are limited. |
Related Qualifications
- Boiler Technician
- Crane Operator
- Forklift Operator
- Hazardous Materials Handler (Type B, Class 4)
- Slinging Skills Training
Aliases
- Non-ferrous metal plant operator
- Non-ferrous metal smelter
Related Jobs
- Blast furnace worker
- Plant engineer
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