Kettle Operator

Job Description

Job Description

Position Summary

The Kettle Operator will be responsible for safely operating and managing the hot-asphalt kettle equipment used in built-up roofing (BUR), modified bitumen, and other roofing systems. This role ensures that the kettle and related equipment are properly prepared, maintained, and operated to deliver the correct material temperatures and flow to the roofing crew, while maintaining site safety and quality standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up and prepare the kettle unit each day: check propane/other fuel supply, reheating system, piping/hose integrity, burner operation, and safety devices.

• Heat roofing asphalt or bitumen materials to specified temperature ranges, monitor gauges and controls, maintain consistent flow.

• Mix/add-in any necessary modifiers or materials per job specification (if applicable).

• Monitor and maintain proper kettle temperature and material viscosity to ensure optimal application by the crew.

• Coordinate with the roofing crew lead to schedule kettle set-up, relocation (if mobile unit), and breakdown.

• Perform routine inspections of hoses, reels, safety valves, burn plates, and ensure safe operation at the job site.

• Move, position and secure the kettle unit and hoses on the roof or job site, including anchoring/as needed.

• Maintain logs/records of temperature, batch times, fuel usage, material batch identity (if applicable).

• Clean kettle unit and hoses after job completion, drain and purge systems, dispose of waste asphalt/bitumen in accordance with regulations.

• Assist with general labor tasks when not operating kettle (e.g., material staging, helping roofing crew) if required.

• Adhere to all safety and regulatory requirements: fall protection, roof working-at-heights procedures, flame/propane safety, fire-watch protocols, PPE usage.

• Report equipment malfunctions or safety issues immediately; coordinate with maintenance or supervisor for repairs.

• Travel between job sites as needed, maintain punctuality and reliability.

Qualifications

Required:

• Proven experience (e.g., 1-2 years) in operating asphalt/bitumen kettles or similar hot-mopping/roofing equipment.

• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to job sites.

• Comfortable working at heights and on rooftops; physically able to lift heavy items (e.g., material bags, hoses), climb ladders and move around sloped surfaces.

• Strong mechanical aptitude: able to inspect, maintain, and troubleshoot kettle equipment and fuel systems.

• Ability to monitor gauges, controls, and maintain operational parameters.

• Good communication skills and ability to coordinate with roofing crews and supervisors.

• Awareness of safety procedures (propane/burner operation, falls, fire safety).

Preferred:

• Certification in working at heights / fall protection.

• Experience with built-up roofing (4-ply systems), modified bitumen, hot-mop installations.

• Prior experience in roofing material handling and crew operations.

• Fire-watch or propane safety training/certificate.

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

• Working on rooftops in varying weather conditions (heat, cold, wind).

• Standing, kneeling, climbing ladders, walking on sloped surfaces.

• Lifting up to [e.g., 50 lbs+] of material or hoses.

• Exposure to hot asphalt/bitumen, burners, open flame, propane tanks.

• Travel between sites, possibly early start times and overtime.

• Use of PPE (gloves, goggles, flame‐resistant clothing, hard hat, fall harness).

Performance Metrics

• Accurate and timely kettle set-up and breakdown.

• Consistent maintenance of target temperatures/viscosity.

• Minimal downtime due to equipment issues.

• Zero (or minimal) safety incidents related to kettle operation.

• Clean, safe, and compliant job site boiler/kettle system.

At North American Roofers, Inc., we are committed to delivering exceptional roofing solutions tailored to our clients' needs. Our team is dedicated to quality, integrity, and long-term relationships. As we continue to grow, we are seeking a motivated and skilled Office Manager to join our team and manage the day-to-day operations of our roofing projects.

Company Description

At North American Roofers, Inc., we are committed to delivering exceptional roofing solutions tailored to our clients' needs. Our team is dedicated to quality, integrity, and long-term relationships. As we continue to grow, we are seeking a motivated and skilled Office Manager to join our team and manage the day-to-day operations of our roofing projects.