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Big Iron Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Yitaltg

Operations Manager

Orland Park, IL · On-site

$130 - $140/hr

Whether it's selling the world's-best big iron, rolling up your sleeves and servicing our industry-leading construction and material handling product brands or being a difference maker behind the ...

Lodge Cast Iron

Packer

South Pittsburg, TN · On-site

$17/hr

As a team, we believe cast iron is for everyone. We're dedicated to manufacturing American-made ... Employee Discount at Lodge Factory Store and Big Bad Breakfast * Safety, Holiday, and Celebration ...

Lodge Cast Iron

Packer

South Pittsburg, TN · On-site

$17/hr

As a team, we believe cast iron is for everyone. We're dedicated to manufacturing American-made ... Employee Discount at Lodge Factory Store and Big Bad Breakfast * Safety, Holiday, and Celebration ...

L3HHCM20

Lead, Software Engineering

Clifton, NJ · On-site

Support software deployment into both edge/embedded environments and larger-scale compute infrastructures, including Big Iron processing environments as required by mission architecture. * Create and ...

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Big Iron information

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$15

$26

$39

How much do big iron jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for big iron in the United States is $26.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.36 and $29.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a big iron?

'Big Iron' refers to large, powerful mainframe computers and the professionals who work with them. Big Iron jobs typically involve managing, maintaining, or developing software for mainframe systems used by large organizations for critical operations. Roles may include mainframe systems administrators, COBOL programmers, and data center engineers. These jobs require specialized knowledge of mainframe operating systems, programming languages, and high-availability computing environments. Big Iron professionals play a key role in ensuring reliability, security, and performance of enterprise IT infrastructure.

What are some common challenges faced when maintaining and operating big iron (mainframe) systems in modern IT environments?

Maintaining and operating Big Iron, or mainframe systems, often involves integrating legacy infrastructure with newer technologies, which can be challenging due to compatibility and security concerns. Mainframe specialists may also face the task of ensuring high availability and performance while supporting complex, mission-critical applications. Additionally, the workforce for mainframe expertise is aging, so collaborating with cross-functional teams and mentoring less experienced staff is common. Staying current with ongoing updates and compliance requirements is essential for success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mainframe systems engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mainframe Systems Engineer, you need expertise in mainframe operating systems (such as IBM z/OS), strong problem-solving skills, and a background in computer science or related fields. Familiarity with tools like JCL, RACF, IBM DB2, and monitoring software is essential, along with relevant certifications like IBM Certified System Programmer. Attention to detail, strong analytical abilities, and effective communication set top professionals apart in this role. These skills are crucial for maintaining the reliability, security, and efficiency of critical enterprise computing environments.

What is the difference between Big Iron vs Heavy Equipment Operator?

AspectBig IronHeavy Equipment Operator
Required CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), certifications for heavy machineryOSHA training, CDL often preferred
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, transportationConstruction sites, excavation, roadwork
Employer & Industry UsageMining companies, construction firms, transportationConstruction companies, infrastructure projects
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Big Iron typically refers to large trucks or heavy-duty machinery used in industries like mining and transportation, often requiring a CDL. Heavy Equipment Operators specifically operate machinery such as bulldozers, excavators, and loaders on construction sites. While both roles involve heavy machinery, Big Iron emphasizes large vehicles used for hauling and transport, whereas Heavy Equipment Operators focus on operating construction equipment. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right opportunities in the heavy machinery industry.

More about Big Iron jobs

What cities are hiring for Big Iron jobs?

Cities with the most Big Iron job openings:

What states have the most Big Iron jobs?

States with the most job openings for Big Iron jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Big Iron jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Big Iron jobs are:

Big Iron jobs near you
Infographic showing various Big Iron job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,689 per year, or $26.8 per hour.

Melt Technician - 3rd shift

Lodge Cast Iron

South Pittsburg, TN

$21.25 - $28.35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Operate electric induction furnaces to melt pig iron, steel, returns, and alloys while monitoring temperature and chemistry.

  • Perform equipment maintenance, including repairs and replacements of furnace linings, ladles, and related equipment.

  • Manage the transfer of molten iron from furnaces to transfer ladles and ensure work area safety and cleanliness.

Lodge Cast Iron rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Melt Technician – Now Starting at $21.25/Hour
Location: South Pittsburg, TN
About Lodge Cast Iron
We got our start over 125 years ago when Joseph Lodge founded the Blacklock Foundry in South Pittsburg, TN. His scrappy, hardworking spirit continues to lead us today. As a team, we believe cast iron is for everyone. We’re dedicated to manufacturing American-made cookware that we’re proud to use in our very own homes and excited to bring to kitchens, backyards, and campfires around the world. Day in and day out, we work together to stay safe, have fun, and be better than we were the day before.
What Fires Us Up?
By now, you may have caught on to the fact that we’re serious about spreading the joys of cast iron. And while we’re always on the lookout for ways to innovate, we believe in the adage: If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. That’s why we stand by a simple recipe of just iron and oil (no forever chemicals, since forever!). It’s also why we’re passionate about keeping our campus in our hometown of South Pittsburg, Tennessee, providing great jobs to our community. As we bring our cookware to the next generation of cast iron chefs, we’re looking for people to help us stay true to our roots every step of the way. Does that sound like something you can get behind?
A Day in the Life of a Melt Technician
The Melt Technician is responsible for controlling the process from furnace charging through the transfer of molten iron to the pouring ladle. In this role, you will melt pig iron, steel, returns, and alloys in electric induction furnaces while ensuring the temperature and chemistry of the metal meet production and quality requirements. You will also perform equipment maintenance, support safe operations, and help maintain a clean and organized work environment.
Responsibilities
  • Operate overhead cranes to load scrap into storage hoppers.
  • Utilize automated charge make-up systems to weigh desired charge blends.
  • Utilize automated alloy systems to determine and weigh alloy additions.
  • Charge and operate electric induction furnaces throughout the full melt cycle.
  • Obtain molten bath temperatures and monitor melt conditions.
  • Remove slag from molten baths.
  • Obtain iron samples for QA spectrometer testing.
  • Pour molten iron from furnaces into transfer ladles.
  • Perform repairs to furnaces, shakers, magnets, and related equipment to support production.
  • Remove and replace furnace linings, including grouting, hose replacement, and spout repairs.
  • Perform furnace top-capping, sintering, and cold-start procedures.
  • Repair, reline, and fabricate ladles as needed.
  • Maintain work areas in accordance with housekeeping and safety standards.
  • Assist with additional duties as assigned.
Minimum Requirements
  • High school diploma or GED.
  • Successful completion of required math and utility assessments.
  • Ability to meet Melt Skills Evaluation requirements.
  • Working knowledge of PC and Windows-based software.
  • Basic math and mechanical skills.
  • Forklift certification or ability to obtain certification.
  • Ability to safely use common hand tools and production equipment.
  • Ability to lift up to 80 pounds.
  • Ability to stand, walk, bend, reach, grasp, stoop, push, and pull throughout the shift.
  • Ability to work safely around moving equipment, high temperatures, and industrial machinery.
  • Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, hearing protection, hard hats, face shields, respirators, gloves, and safety footwear.
Employee Benefits
  • Competitive Pay
  • Generous PTO and Sick Pay
  • Insurance Benefits (Medical, Dental, Vision, Prescription, Life, and Short-Term Disability)
  • On-Site Clinic and Fitness Center
  • 401K Match and Deferred Profit Sharing Program
  • Quarterly Profit Sharing
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Scholarship Opportunity and Tuition Reimbursement
  • $150 Boot Allowance
  • Employee Discount at Lodge Factory Store and Big Bad Breakfast
  • Safety, Holiday, and Celebration Dinners
  • Benefits may vary by role and eligibility.
Pre-Employment Requirements
Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check and drug screening, in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the Tennessee Drug-Free Workplace Act.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Lodge Manufacturing does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, national or ethnic origin, gender, religion, disability, age, political affiliation or belief, veteran status, or citizenship status (except in those special circumstances permitted or mandated by law).

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