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.

Median Annual Wage: $34,900

Education: High school diploma or equivalent (56%); Less than high school diploma (21%); Post-secondary certificate (16%)

Projected Growth: Decline (-3% or lower)

Related Job Titles: Control Room Operator; Oven Operator; Kiln Operator; Furnace Operator; Lime Kiln and Recausticizing Operator; Dry Kiln Operator; Evaporator Operator; Kiln Fireman; Dryer Feeder; Annealing Operator

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Source: O*NET OnLine information for Furnace, Kiln, Oven, Drier, and Kettle Operators and Tenders.

More Production Careers

  • Confer with supervisors or other equipment operators to report equipment malfunctions or to resolve production problems.
  • Press and adjust controls to activate, set, and regulate equipment according to specifications.
  • Record gauge readings, test results, and shift production in log books.
  • Read and interpret work orders and instructions to determine work assignments, process specifications, and production schedules.
  • Examine or test samples of processed substances, or collect samples for laboratory testing, to ensure conformance to specifications.
  • Transport materials and products to and from work areas, manually or using carts, handtrucks, or hoists.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Furnace, Kiln, Oven, Drier, and Kettle Operators and Tenders.

  • Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
  • Speaking - Talking to others to convey information effectively.
  • Monitoring - Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
  • Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
  • Operation and Control - Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
  • Active Listening - Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
  • Quality Control Analysis - Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
  • Writing - Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Furnace, Kiln, Oven, Drier, and Kettle Operators and Tenders.

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