Signal Worker (Ironmaking, Steelmaking)
しんごうこう（せいてつ、せいこう）
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A profession that monitors and controls the temperature and pressure of steel manufacturing equipment such as blast furnaces and converters to safely and efficiently advance the ironmaking and steelmaking processes.
Description
Signal workers measure temperature, pressure, flow rates, etc., in ironmaking and steelmaking equipment such as blast furnaces and converters, and operate signal devices to control processes such as gas blowing, raw material charging, and slag removal. They constantly monitor values from various sensors and measuring instruments, and if there are deviations, they immediately adjust and report them, striving for safety management and quality maintenance. Work is on a shift system, requiring teamwork and coordination with responsible persons in each process. Knowledge of equipment maintenance and process improvement is also required.
Future Outlook
In the steel industry, automation and digitalization are advancing, and demand for control technicians remains stable. Personnel with advanced monitoring and control skills will continue to be in demand.
Personality Traits
Attentive / Calm and composed / Strong sense of responsibility
Work Style
Career Path
Signal Worker Apprentice → Signal Worker → Shift Leader (Group Leader) → Equipment Maintenance Engineer → Factory Management Position
Required Skills
Chemical Analysis / Furnace Operation and Control Management / Gas Blowing Operation / Safety Management / Temperature and Pressure Measurement
Recommended Skills
Equipment Maintenance Technology / Mechanical Maintenance Technology / PLC and Automatic Control / Quality Management (ISO9001)
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Adaptability | Need to respond quickly to raw material characteristics and equipment conditions. |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because even small changes cannot be overlooked. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Due to the need for long hours of standing work and heavy labor. |
| Stress Tolerance | Due to frequent work in high-temperature environments and tense operations. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Centered on routine tasks with little need for creative thinking. |
Related Qualifications
- Boiler Technician
- Hazardous Materials Handler (Class B, Type 4)
- Oxygen Deficiency and Hydrogen Sulfide Hazard Supervisor
Related Jobs
- Blast Furnace Worker
- Non-Ferrous Metal Smelter
- Steelmaker