Summary/Job Scope: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.
Key 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.
Note: This job description may not cover all duties and requirements and may include additional tasks as assigned by the Manager.
Qualifications:- 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.
Working conditions relating to physical effort for this role has been rated Moderate-Intermediate, within industrial manufacturing environment with exposure to heat, dust, and noise with regular presence in the plant and control room.
WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU?Being part of VCNA is being part of building famous landmarks such as Toronto's CN Tower, Roy Thompson Hall, Maple Leaf Gardens and the Darlington Nuclear Station and Ryerson Centre, St. Regis Chicago and 150 N. Riverside, Louis High-Speed Rail in Chicago and more
- Opportunities to collaborate with teams around the globe and growth opportunities in different areas
- 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
- Hybrid work model for certain positions
Salary Range: $82,114.11 - 123,1711.16
(offers will be based on qualifications, experience and education, which will determine where a candidate will fall in line with the above wage range)
