Metal-Refining Furnace Operators and Tenders
Operate or tend furnaces, such as gas, oil, coal, electric-arc or electric induction, open-hearth, or oxygen furnaces, to melt and refine metal before casting or to produce specified types of steel.
Common Job Titles
- Central Melt Specialist
- Furnace Operator
- Melter
- Vacuum Melter
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- Hands-onOperate gas, oil, electric-arc, and induction furnaces in metal refining and steel production environments, following safety and operational protocols.Proficient
- KnowledgeAssess furnace operations and melting processes by monitoring gauges, pyrometers, and process indicators to ensure specification compliance.Proficient
- Hands-onHandle casting ladles, overhead cranes, and material transfer equipment when moving molten metal and refining materials under high-temperature conditions.Proficient
- KnowledgeApply production and processing knowledge to adjust furnace parameters, fuel ratios, and oxygen levels during melting and refining cycles.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate safety conditions and hazardous situations in high-temperature industrial settings, implementing protective measures and emergency protocols.Proficient
- KnowledgeAnalyze metal composition and quality characteristics using temperature readings, chemical analysis, and visual inspection to meet steel specifications.Developing
- Hands-onPerform equipment maintenance and minor repairs on furnaces and auxiliary systems following preventive maintenance schedules and troubleshooting mechanical failures.Developing
- MindsetParticipate in team coordination and communication activities with supervisors, coworkers, and shift personnel to ensure continuous production flow.Developing
- KnowledgeEstimate material quantities, heating times, and production yields using mathematical calculations and process control software to optimize furnace efficiency.Developing
- Hands-onExecute charging, tapping, and slag removal procedures using forklifts, conveyors, and manual tools while wearing protective equipment.Developing
- KnowledgeInterpret process data and instrumentation readings from digital meters, control computers, and monitoring systems to maintain optimal furnace conditions.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Metal-Refining Furnace Operators and Tenders (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
20,330
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $38,760. 25th percentile: U.S. $46,550. 50th percentile: U.S. $55,770. 75th percentile: U.S. $65,070. 90th percentile: U.S. $80,280. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $38,760 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $80,280 |
| Workers on average earn | $57,290 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Production and Processing4.0/5
- Mechanical3.7/5
- Public Safety and Security3.2/5
- Administration and Management3.2/5
- Education and Training3.0/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
Technology Skills
- Process control software
- Process safety management software
- Production tracking system software
Tools & Equipment
- Air gauges
- Anneal furnaces
- Argon purging systems
- Basic oxygen furnaces
- Blast furnaces
- Channel induction furnaces
- Chemical protection goggles
- Closed circuit television monitors