Furnace, Kiln, Oven, Drier, and Kettle Operators and Tenders
Operate or tend heating equipment other than basic metal, plastic, or food processing equipment. Includes activities such as annealing glass, drying lumber, curing rubber, removing moisture from materials, or boiling soap.
Common Job Titles
- Dry Kiln Operator
- Furnace Operator
- Kiln Fireman
- Kiln Operator
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- Hands-onOperate industrial furnaces, kilns, ovens, and drying equipment in production environments, monitoring temperature, pressure, and process parameters.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate equipment performance and product quality against processing standards during heating cycles, using digital thermometers, moisture meters, and measurement instruments.Proficient
- Hands-onCoordinate material handling operations using hoists, forklifts, and conveyor systems to load and unload materials safely while maintaining production schedules.Proficient
- MindsetAdvocate workplace safety protocols and public safety standards when operating high-temperature equipment in industrial settings.Proficient
- KnowledgeAnalyze process variables and equipment readings to identify deviations from specifications and adjust heating parameters.Developing
- Hands-onPerform routine inspections of heating equipment, mechanical components, and safety systems following established maintenance protocols under general supervision.Developing
- KnowledgeApply production and processing knowledge to material treatment operations including annealing, curing, drying, and moisture removal processes.Developing
- KnowledgeInterpret work orders, technical specifications, and process documentation to determine appropriate heating cycles and quality control parameters.Developing
- Hands-onCalibrate temperature controls, moisture meters, and measurement instruments using digital calipers, hygrometers, and optical pyrometers to ensure accuracy.Developing
- KnowledgeExplain equipment operation procedures and safety requirements when training new operators and coordinating with production team members.Developing
- MindsetEngage in continuous process improvement and equipment optimization by documenting operational issues and participating in problem-solving activities.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Furnace, Kiln, Oven, Drier, and Kettle Operators and Tenders (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
16,160
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $35,010. 25th percentile: U.S. $39,250. 50th percentile: U.S. $47,010. 75th percentile: U.S. $57,840. 90th percentile: U.S. $66,190. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $35,010 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $66,190 |
| Workers on average earn | $49,250 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Mechanical3.5/5
- Production and Processing3.2/5
- Public Safety and Security3.1/5
- Computers and Electronics3.0/5
- English Language2.8/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Word
Technology Skills
- Inventory tracking software
- Machine operation software
Tools & Equipment
- Basket strainers
- Cleaning scrapers
- Continuous baking furnaces
- Conveyor belts
- Curing ovens
- Dielectric power loss moisture meters
- Digital bench scales
- Digital calipers