Utility Operator – Pot Line (Durban, South Africa)

About the role

The Utility Operator supports the Pot Line in an aluminium smelting plant, gaining on‑the‑job training to reach the required skill level. You will work closely with the Assistant Cell Operator and Cell Technician to ensure safe and efficient production of molten aluminium.

Key responsibilities

• Assist the PTM operator with safe anode changes, including shield removal, anode reference marking and voltage monitoring.
• Perform pot beam raising operations according to procedure and safety standards.
• Prepare tapping holes, skim crucibles, and conduct metal and bath sampling for quality control.
• Support miscellaneous cell activities such as housekeeping, material addition, pot skimming and redressing.
• Clean crucibles, siphon tips and pot breaker components; maintain pot shields and doors to limit HF emissions.
• Participate in PTM on‑the‑job training, attend anode effect events, and follow 5S housekeeping standards.
• Report hazards and contribute to a zero‑LTI safety goal.

Required profile

• Secondary School Certificate (minimum).
• Preferably one year of experience in heavy industry.
• Physical fitness and ability to work shift schedules in a potroom environment.
• Good English communication skills.
• Willingness to learn the aluminium smelting process and follow safety procedures.

Required skills

• Operation of Pot Tending Machines (PTM).
• Use of Anode Beam Raising Equipment.
• Handling of general potroom tools and equipment.
• Metal and bath sampling techniques.
• Crucible cleaning and anode handling procedures.
• Application of 5S housekeeping standards.