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Furnace, Kiln, Oven, Drier, and Kettle Operators and Tenders

Also called: Dry Kiln Operator, Furnace Operator, Kiln Fireman, Kiln Operator

What they do:

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.

On the job, you would:
  • 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.
On the job, you'll need:

Engineering and Technology

  • mechanical

Manufactured or Agricultural Goods

  • manufacture and distribution of products

Safety and Government

  • public safety and security

Basic Skills

  • keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
  • listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions

Problem Solving

  • noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Verbal

  • listen and understand what people say
  • read and understand what is written

Hand and Finger Use

  • keep your arm or hand steady
  • hold or move items with your hands

Realistic

People interested in this work like activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions.

  • Attention to Detail
  • Dependability
  • Self Control
  • Initiative
  • Stress Tolerance
  • Cooperation

Spreadsheet software

  • Microsoft Excel

Word processing software

  • Microsoft Word

Inventory management software

  • Inventory tracking software

Job Outlook

The job outlook for this position is Below Average.

New job opportunities are less likely in the future.

Median Annual Salary: $44,530

Education

High school diploma/GED or no high school diploma/GED is usually needed.

Explore More

See other careers in the Manufacturing industry.