Heat Treating Equipment Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Set up, operate, or tend heating equipment, such as heat-treating furnaces, flame-hardening machines, induction machines, soaking pits, or vacuum equipment to temper, harden, anneal, or heat treat metal or plastic objects.
SOC: 51-4191.00
Common Job Titles
Furnace OperatorHeat Treat OperatorHeat Treat TechnicianHeat Treater
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Heat Treating Equipment Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
14,590
Wage Distribution by Percentile
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $35,260 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $64,290 |
| Workers on average earn | $49,030 |
+ 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 Processing3.9/5
- Mathematics3.3/5
- Education and Training2.9/5
- Administration and Management2.8/5
- Chemistry2.7/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
Microsoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft WordSAP software
Technology Skills
Enterprise resource planning ERP software
Tools & Equipment
Annealing furnacesAtmosphere furnacesAutomated salt bath furnacesBatch type hardening furnacesBridge cranesCarbonitriding equipmentChain hoistsClaw hammers