CFChooseField
Production

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.

Visual summary of pay, outlook, skills, interests, and preparation for Furnace, Kiln, Oven, Drier, and Kettle Operators and Tenders
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Median pay

$47,010
Median annual pay for Furnace, Kiln, Oven, Drier, and Kettle Operators and Tenders.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024
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10-year growth

3%
Projected employment growth from 2024 to 2034.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024–2034 projections
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Annual openings

1,900
Projected annual openings, including growth and replacement demand.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024–2034 projections
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Employment

16,500
Estimated U.S. employment for Furnace, Kiln, Oven, Drier, and Kettle Operators and Tenders in 2024.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024
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Jobs added or lost

+500
Projected numeric employment change from 2024 to 2034.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024–2034 projections
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Entry preparation

High school diploma or equivalent
Typical additional preparation: Moderate-term on-the-job training.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024 profile
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O*NET occupation profile

What the work involves

Strongest O*NET signals first.

Essential skills

  1. 1Active Listening
  2. 2Critical Thinking
  3. 3Monitoring
  4. 4Reading Comprehension
  5. 5Speaking
  6. 6Writing

Knowledge areas

  1. 1Mechanical
  2. 2Production and Processing
  3. 3Public Safety and Security
  4. 4Computers and Electronics
  5. 5English Language
  6. 6Education and Training

Abilities

  1. 1Problem Sensitivity
  2. 2Control Precision
  3. 3Oral Comprehension
  4. 4Written Comprehension
  5. 5Arm-Hand Steadiness
  6. 6Near Vision

Career interests

  1. 1Realistic
  2. 2Conventional
  3. 3Investigative
  4. 4Social
  5. 5Enterprising
  6. 6Artistic

Work styles

  1. 1Cautiousness
  2. 2Dependability
  3. 3Attention to Detail
  4. 4Self-Control
  5. 5Stress Tolerance
  6. 6Achievement Orientation

Work activities

  1. 1Controlling Machines and Processes
  2. 2Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials
  3. 3Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events
  4. 4Handling and Moving Objects
  5. 5Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings
  6. 6Getting Information

Work context

  1. 1Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets
  2. 2Exposed to Sounds, Noise Levels that are Distracting or Uncomfortable
  3. 3Exposed to Very Hot or Cold Temperatures
  4. 4Exposed to Contaminants
  5. 5Health and Safety of Other Workers
  6. 6Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled

Representative tasks

  • Monitor equipment operation, gauges, and panel lights to detect deviations from standards.
  • 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.
  • Stop equipment and clear blockages or jams, using fingers, wire, or hand tools.

Software and tools

Microsoft Excel · hot technologyMicrosoft Word · hot technologyInventory tracking softwareMachine operation software

Sources

BLS provides national pay, employment, and projections. O*NET provides skills, interests, preparation, tasks, work context, and tools.

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