The Brazer Operator is responsible for operating brazing equipment used to bond diamond segments to steel cores in the production of diamond cutting blades, bits and specialty tools. This role requires precision, attention to detail, and adherence to strict quality and safety standards to ensure finished products meet dimensional and structural specifications.
Responsibilities Include:
- Set up, operate, and monitor induction, furnace, or flame brazing equipment to bond diamond segments.
- Load and position steel cores and diamond segments into fixtures, jigs, or freehand for proper alignment prior to brazing
- Apply brazing alloys (silver solder, copper-based, or specialty alloys) at correct temperatures and in appropriate quantities
- Monitor heat cycles, dwell times, and cooling rates to ensure consistent metallurgical bonds
- Adjust equipment parameters (temperature, power, feed rate) based on product specifications and material type
- Inspect brazed assemblies for proper segment placement, bond integrity, voids, cracks, or misalignment using visual inspection and measuring instruments (calipers, micrometers)
- Perform pull or torque tests as required to verify bond strength
- Identify and segregate non-conforming product; document defects and report to supervisor
- Maintain first-article inspection records and in-process quality logs
- Meet established production rates while maintaining quality standards
- Complete production traveler documents, batch records, and operator logs accurately
- Communicate effectively with team leads, quality, and maintenance personnel regarding production status
- Perform routine maintenance, cleaning, and calibration of brazing equipment and fixtures
- Identify equipment malfunctions and coordinate repairs with maintenance personnel
- Change out fixtures, tooling, and heating coils/elements as required for different product runs
- Additional tasks as assigned by manager
COMPETENCY OR POSITION REQUIREMENTS
- Strong communication skills
- Time management skills
- Maintaining a safe driving record
- All Armor employees are also expected to demonstrate Armor’s core values of being:
- Customer Focused
- Passionate about Work
- Solution Oriented
- Driven by Integrity
EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE
- High school diploma or GED
- Minimum 1–2 years of experience operating brazing, welding, or other high-heat bonding equipment in a manufacturing environment
- Ability to read and interpret work orders, blueprints, and assembly drawings
- Basic math skills including measurement and unit conversion
EQUIPMENT USED
The Brazer Operator will work with a variety of brazing equipment including induction brazing machines, furnace brazing systems (conveyor/belt, vacuum, or atmosphere-controlled), flame/torch brazing stations, resistance brazing units, and automated or semi-automatic brazing cells, along with segment placement jigs, graphite molds, and custom blade core holding fixtures. Inspection and measurement tools used include digital calipers, micrometers, dial indicators, torque and pull-test equipment, optical comparators, and hardness testers to verify bond strength and dimensional accuracy. Additional shop equipment includes overhead hoists and material handling carts for blade core staging, industrial ovens for pre-heating and stress relief, ultrasonic cleaning systems for core degreasing, sandblasting equipment for surface preparation, and fume extraction and ventilation systems to maintain a safe working environment.
WORKING AND PHYSICAL CONDITIONS
This position works on the shipping dock, outside and in company vehicles. Ability to stand for extended periods (up to 8–10 hours per shift). Lift and carry up to 30–50 lbs regularly. Tolerance for working in environments with elevated heat, noise, and metal particulates. Manual dexterity for handling small components and precision fixtures.
