Kiln Coach

VCNA•Clarington, ON

6d•CA$82,114 - CA$1,231,711•Hybrid

About The Position

The Kiln Coach is responsible for optimizing kiln system performance through hands‑on coaching, technical guidance, and continuous improvement initiatives. This role focuses on developing kiln operators’ capabilities, improving process stability, maximizing production efficiency, maintaining product quality, and ensuring compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements. This role works closely with production operators, control room personnel, and maintenance teams to improve performance, reduce variability, and support continuous improvement initiatives.

Requirements

Diploma or degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Process Technology, or related field. Equivalent practical experience will be considered.
Minimum 5-10 years of experience in cement manufacturing processes such as mining, milling, kiln operation, process control, and predictive maintenance are desirable.
Strong hands‑on experience with rotary kiln systems, preheaters, coolers, and fuel systems.
Experience with Health, Safety & Environmental legislative/regulatory requirements.
Ability to interpret process data and make operational decisions.
Excellent coaching, communication, and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work flexible hours and provide on‑call support as required.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and troubleshooting skills.
Ability to work safely in an industrial environment, including working at heights, in confined spaces, and in dusty conditions.

Responsibilities

Provide daily technical support and coaching to control room operators (CROs and ACROs) to optimize kiln, cooler and preheater performance.
Monitor key kiln performance indicators (heat consumption, clinker quality, production rate, refractory life, emissions).
Identify process upsets and implement corrective actions to stabilize operations.
Support startups, shutdowns, and abnormal operating conditions.
Optimize fuel mix, feed chemistry, and operational parameters to reduce cost and emissions.
Coach and mentor kiln operators through on‑the‑job training, performance reviews, and feedback.
Develop and deliver structured training programs, SOPs, and best‑practice guidelines.
Promote a culture of operational discipline, continuous learning, and accountability.
Support succession planning and skill development within the kiln team.
Lead and support continuous improvement initiatives related to kiln operations, energy efficiency, and alternative fuels.
Participate in root cause analysis (RCA) for production losses, quality deviations, or equipment failures.
Collaborate with Maintenance, Quality, and Engineering teams to improve system reliability.
Champion health and safety compliance in accordance with the Ontario Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) and company policies.
Ensure kiln operations comply with environmental permits, emissions limits, and applicable Canadian regulations.
Participate in safety audits, hazard identification, and risk assessments.
Promote safe work practices and intervening when unsafe conditions or behaviors are observed.
Ensures the safety of themselves and all colleagues through enforcing safe work practices and providing motivation and effective communication.

Benefits

Training, professional development
Access to Employees Resource Groups (ERGs), including SheBuilds, which fosters mentorship, leadership development and community support
Tuition reimbursement/assistance
Competitive wages, vacation and holiday time
Medical, dental, vision, disability and life insurance
RRSP and DC (CAN) and 401K (U.S.)
Employee Assistance Program (EAP): confidential support for you and your family (CAN)
Educational scholarship program for dependents of regular salaried employees.
Fertility drug coverage
Paid Maternity Leave Top Up