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.
SOC: 51-4051.00
Common Job Titles
Central Melt Specialist
Furnace Operator
Melter
Vacuum Melter
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key 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
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
