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.
SOC: 51-9051.00
Common Job Titles
Dry Kiln Operator
Furnace Operator
Kiln Fireman
Kiln Operator
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key 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
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
