Shell Technician

Doncasters Group•Oxford, AL

About The Position

The Shell Technician conducts technical testing and evaluates ceramic materials and raw inputs to support quality assurance. The role recommends slurry adjustments, supports shell process audits and trials, and helps maintain efficient robotic dipping operations by troubleshooting robotic systems and FactoryTalk software. It also supports dewaxing and flash fire operations to ensure consistent processing, product quality, and compliance with engineering and customer specifications. The position requires commitment to quality, safety, and production standards. The technician follows engineering and customer specifications and production schedules, and contributes to reducing cycle times and eliminating non-value-added activities. The work takes place in a potentially dusty environment, with noise levels in some areas exceeding 85 dB, and may involve sparks. Required PPE includes an aluminized apron, spats, sleeves, high-temperature gloves, safety glasses, and a face shield, as required.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Experience working in a shell area or manufacturing environment.
Strong attention to detail and excellent hand-eye coordination.
Ability to identify and logically troubleshoot problems involving equipment, processes, and raw materials.
Self-motivated, trustworthy, and willing to learn through on-the-job training.
Ability to perform prolonged standing, repetitive tasks, close visual inspection and manipulation of wax clusters, and some heavy lifting, pushing, and pulling; ceramic trees handled may exceed 100 lbs.

Nice To Haves

Experience with shell dipping processes.
Familiarity with computers, human-machine interfaces (HMIs), or industrial control systems.

Responsibilities

Perform ceramic technical testing and recommend slurry adjustments to maintain process quality and consistency.
Conduct shell process audits to ensure compliance with established procedures and specifications.
Develop an understanding of shell area operations, including loading and etching, dipping, takedown, dewaxing, and flash fire.
Inspect wax clusters for defects and ensure quality standards are met before further processing.
Troubleshoot robotic dipping equipment and FactoryTalk systems to support reliable and efficient operations.
Complete data entry and analysis to monitor process performance and support continuous improvement.
Assist with shell trials, process evaluations, and implementation of improvements.
Support slurry preparation and mixing activities, maintaining an understanding of slurry formulas and process requirements.
Promote quality, productivity, 6S, cost reduction, and continuous improvement while maintaining a clean and orderly work area.
Carry out other duties as required to support the team and production objectives.
Follow engineering and customer specifications, adhere to production schedules, and contribute to reducing cycle times and eliminating non-value-added activities.
Follow company health and safety policies and wear required personal protective equipment.