SME - Heat Treatment

About SKF

SKF started its operations in India in 1923. Today, SKF provides industry leading automotive and industrial engineered solutions through its five technology-centric platforms: bearings and units, seals, mechatronics, lubrication solutions and services. Over the years the company has evolved from being a pioneer ball bearing manufacturing company to a knowledge-driven engineering company helping customers achieve sustainable and competitive business excellence.

SKF's solutions provide sustainable ways for companies across the automotive and industrial sectors to achieve breakthroughs in friction reduction, energy efficiency, and equipment longevity and reliability. With a strong commitment to research-based innovation, SKF India offers customized value-added solutions that integrate all its five technology platforms.

To know more, please visit: www.skf.com/in

About Operations India business:

SKF has a pan India footprint consisting of 4 manufacturing facilities, 7 Distribution Centers, a supplier network of over450 and an employee base of about 300 dedicated professionals. To support the manufacturing strategy, SKF focuses on developing and implementing new technology to increase reliability and flexibility, reduce costs and improve environmental performance.

SKF Purpose Statement

Together, we re-imagine rotation for a better tomorrow.

By creating intelligent and clean solutions for people and the planet

JOB DESCRIPTION

Position Title:  SME – Heat Treatment (Process Expert)

Reports To:       General Manager Manufacturing Engineering and Quality

Role Type:         Individual Contributor

Location:           Ahmedabad Manufacturing Plant

Purpose of the Role:

To provide subject matter expertise in heat treatment processes, supporting the factory expansion project through the design, installation, and commissioning of new heat treatment equipment. The role ensures process readiness, recipe development, and continuous improvement in safety, quality, and productivity of heat treatment operations.

Responsibilities:

• Design process steps and select equipment for new heat treatment processes and products.
• Develop heat treatment recipes for new products and process types.
• Prepare inspection protocols for heat-treated components.
• Troubleshoot process deviations and implement corrective actions.
• Drive process improvements in safety, quality, cost, and productivity.
• Train and mentor plant teams on heat treatment processes and best practices.
• Validate furnaces post-repair and during new installations.
• Ensure operational excellence of Endo gas systems.
• Apply knowledge of furnace and tooling design to support process development.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams during machine installation and commissioning.

Metrics:

• Successful commissioning and validation of heat treatment equipment.
• Number of new heat treatment recipes developed and implemented.
• Reduction in process deviations and quality issues.
• Improvement in productivity and energy efficiency.
• Training hours delivered to plant personnel.
• Implementation of CO₂ reduction and sustainability initiatives.

Competencies:

Technical:

• Process Knowledge: Expertise in HT process design, recipe development, inspection protocols, troubleshooting, furnace validation, and Endo gas systems.
• Technology Focus: Awareness of emerging HT technologies, CO₂ reduction innovations, metallurgical thermodynamics, advanced NDT techniques, and forging/steel manufacturing basics.
• Statistical Knowledge: Proficient in statistical process control tools and understanding of PPM.
• Project Management: Experience in managing equipment installation, validation, and documentation for new processes.
• Structured Problem Solving: Skilled in 5 Why, A3 methodology, and Six Sigma Green Belt certified.
• Industry 4.0: Understanding of SCADA systems, HMI functions, and AI applications in heat treatment.
• SPS (SKF Production System): Application of lean principles, 5S, and resetting excellence.

Behavioral:

• Patience: Maintains composure and persistence in complex technical environments.
• Curiosity: Demonstrates a strong drive to explore new technologies and improve processes.
• Collaboration: Works effectively with cross-functional teams and supports knowledge sharing.
• Communication: Communicates clearly and effectively across technical and non-technical teams.
• Accountability: Takes ownership of process outcomes and drives continuous improvement.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and lead cross-functional initiatives.
• Adaptability and a continuous improvement mindset.

Candidate Profile:

• Education: B.Tech/ M.Tech in Mechanical / Metallurgy / Production.
• Experience: 8–12 years of experience in heat treatment operations, with hands-on involvement in furnace design, commissioning, and process optimization.
• Location: Ahmedabad manufacturing plant; active involvement in factory expansion projects is essential.

If interested, please share your updated profile @ supriya.joshi@skf.com