Ceramic Tile Machine Operator (Kiln / Glazing / Quality)
Overview
Join our cutting-edge Italian ceramic tile manufacturing facility in the Knoxville area, nestled in the beautiful Smoky Mountains. We operate an advanced, high-tech smart factory with robotics, high-definition kilns, glaze lines, and surface inspection machinery. We’re urgently hiring up to 10 machine operators, including Kiln Operators, Glazing Line Operators, and Selection Technicians. If you have experience in ceramics, tiles, kiln firing, glazing chemistry, or quality inspection, we want to hear from you!
Benefits
- $18-$28 / hr depending on experience
- $1,000 retention bonus after 90 days
- $2,500 relocation stipend
- Industry leading benefits with full medical, dental, vision, 401(k) with match
- Opportunities for raises
Roles
- Kiln Operators
- Glazing Line Operators
- Selection Technicians (Quality)
- 2nd Shift (6pm - 6am) x 3.5 days (40+ hours per week)
Enjoy working in scenic Tennessee with access to nearby hiking, rivers, and mountain life? This is an opportunity to join a fast growing industry leader, grow your career, and relocate to a beautiful area!
**Any candidate earning over $20/hr to start must take a simple Maintenance Test**
Responsibilities (Will Vary Based on Role)
Kiln Operator Responsibilities:
- Operate high-temperature kilns to fire ceramic tile according to temperature and timing specs.
- Perform size and control adjustments to ensure consistent product dimensions and finish.
- Monitor firing schedules, inspect tiles post-kiln for defects, and maintain firing logs.
Glazing Line Operator Responsibilities:
- Operate glaze application equipment to coat tile with correct finish, thickness, and texture.
- Monitor glaze density and viscosity; perform test samples and make real-time adjustments.
- Troubleshoot glaze line machinery and keep records of output and appearance checks.
Selection Line Technician Responsibilities:
- Operate tile sorting and surface inspection machinery to ensure finished quality.
- Program and run packaging lines for boxing, labeling, and palletizing based on SKUs.
- Identify defects (chips, cracks, glaze errors) and escalate repeat issues to QC.
Across all roles, you may:
- Operate forklifts or pallet jacks to move materials.
- Complete production reports and quality checklists.
- Maintain a clean, safe, and organized workstation.
- Perform basic machine maintenance and support changeovers.
Requirements
Preferred Qualifications:
- Operating or maintaining ceramic kilns, glazing lines, or surface inspection machines.
- Experience with tile production, glaze chemistry, or quality control inspection.
- Forklift certification or material handling experience.
Qualifications
- High school diploma or GED required.
- 3+ years of experience in manufacturing or machine operation preferred - especially in tile, flooring, or ceramics.
- Comfortable working with automated equipment, touchscreens, and mechanical systems.
- Able to lift 60 lbs and work on your feet in a hot, industrial environment.
- Self-motivated, safety-conscious, and reliable.
Benefits
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance