Job Description

The Board Operator is responsible for safely operating and monitoring the Direct Reduction Iron (DRI) process through the plant's distributed control system (DCS). This role monitors process conditions, adjusts operating parameters, troubleshoots process deviations, and coordinates with field operators, maintenance personnel, and other departments to maintain safe, efficient, and reliable production. The Board Operator plays a critical role in achieving production, quality, environmental, and safety objectives while ensuring compliance with all company policies and procedures.

Tasks & Responsibilities:

• Demonstrate a commitment to safety and environmental performance by complying with all company policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
• Monitor and control plant operations through the Distributed Control System (DCS) and other automation systems.
• Analyze operating data, process trends, alarms, and equipment conditions to optimize plant performance.
• Adjust process parameters to maintain safe, stable, and efficient operation while achieving production and quality targets.
• Coordinate activities with field operators to verify conditions, troubleshoot issues, and implement operating changes.
• Respond to process upsets and abnormal operating conditions to minimize operational impact and maintain safe plant operation.
• Communicate operating conditions, process changes, and equipment issues to operations, maintenance, and leadership teams.
• Support startup, shutdown, and process transition activities in accordance with established procedures.
• Monitor key performance indicators and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, reliability, and productivity.
• Maintain accurate operating logs, shift reports, and production records.
• Assist with equipment isolation, permitting, and verification activities as required.
• Participate in operational investigations, root cause analysis efforts, and corrective action implementation.
• Support operator training and knowledge-sharing activities.
• Maintain housekeeping standards and contribute to a positive team environment.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; technical education or post-secondary training preferred.
• Minimum three years of industrial process operations, control room, panel operator, or board operator experience preferred.
• Experience in DRI, HBI, steel manufacturing, mining, chemical processing, power generation, refining, or other heavy industrial environments preferred.
• Basic understanding of process control systems, automated equipment, and industrial operations.
• Ability to interpret operating procedures, process data, trends, diagrams, and technical documentation.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work rotating shifts, weekends, holidays, and overtime as required.
• Must be able to work effectively in a team-based environment and make sound decisions under pressure.
• Must be able to walk long distances, climb stairs and ladders, work at elevated heights, and perform duties in industrial environments that may include heat, humidity, dust, noise, and varying weather conditions.
• Must be able to wear all required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Must possess or be able to obtain and maintain a TWIC card.
• Must have reliable transportation to and from work.