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Furnace Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Furnace Operator Location: Detroit, MI Shift: 1st Shift Pay: $18.00/hr. Job Summary We're seeking a dependable and safety-focused Furnace Operator to join our manufacturing team. In this role, you'll ...

Furnace Operator Annealing

Utica, MI

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

The Annealing Furnace Operator is responsible for operation of the Annealing Furnace, which is used to increase ductility and reduce the hardness of raw coiled steel. This key role must ensure safe ...

Furnace Operator Annealing

Utica, MI · On-site

$17.50 - $19/hr

The Annealing Furnace Operator is responsible for operation of the Annealing Furnace, which is used to increase ductility and reduce the hardness of raw coiled steel. This key role must ensure safe ...

Furnace Operator Annealing

Utica, MI · On-site

$17.50 - $19/hr

The Annealing Furnace Operator is responsible for operation of the Annealing Furnace, which is used to increase ductility and reduce the hardness of raw coiled steel. This key role must ensure safe ...

Furnace Operator

Plymouth, MI · On-site

$16.25 - $20/hr

Furnace Operator We are looking for a Furnace Operator (6pm - 6am rotational shift) for our Plymouth, MI facility. In this role you will Meet or exceed safety, quality and production goals. Safely ...

Furnace Operator

Plymouth, MI · On-site

$16.25 - $20/hr

Furnace Operator We are looking for a Furnace Operator for our Plymouth, Michigan facility. In this role you will meet or exceeds safety, quality and production goals. Safely prepare, melt, and ...

Furnace Operator

Troy, MI · On-site

$16.25 - $20/hr

Furnace Operator We are looking for a Furnace Operator for our Troy, MI facility. In this role you will safely prepare, melt, and atomize metal powder following job instructions. This will include ...

Furnace Operator

Troy, MI · On-site

$16.25 - $20/hr

Furnace Operator We are looking for a Furnace Operator for our Troy, MI facility. In this role you will safely prepare, melt, and atomize metal powder following job instructions. This will include ...

Furnace Operator

Plymouth, MI · On-site

$16.25 - $20/hr

We are looking for a Furnace Operator (6pm - 6am rotational shift) for our Plymouth, MI facility. In this role you will Meet or exceed safety, quality and production goals. Safely prepare, melt, and ...

Furnace Operator

Plymouth, MI

$16.25 - $20/hr

We are looking for a Furnace Operator (6pm 6am rotational shift) for our Plymouth, MI facility. In this role you will Meet or exceed safety, quality and production goals. Safely prepare, melt, and ...

Furnace Operator

Plymouth, MI

$16.25 - $20/hr

We are looking for a Furnace Operator (6pm - 6am rotational shift) for our Plymouth, MI facility. In this role you will Meet or exceed safety, quality and production goals. Safely prepare, melt, and ...

The Furnace Operator is responsible for operating the batch furnaces and supervising the Batch Rackers. The operator must also burn shims and complete paperwork for the batch department. The operator ...

The Heat Treat Furnace Operator is responsible for operation and maintenance of the heat treat furnace, which is used to harden and temper the steel fasteners manufactured by MNP. This key role must ...

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Furnace Operator information

See Michigan salary details

$11

$16

$23

How much do furnace operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for furnace operator in Michigan is $16.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $17.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a furnace operator?

Furnace operators are skilled workers responsible for controlling and monitoring industrial furnaces used in manufacturing processes. They load materials, set temperature controls, and ensure the furnace operates safely and efficiently. Their duties may include adjusting settings, recording data, performing routine maintenance, and following safety procedures to prevent accidents. Furnace operators are essential in industries such as metalworking, glassmaking, and ceramics, where precise heating is required.

What does a furnace operator do?

A furnace operator controls a gas, coal, electric, oil, or other type of furnace in preparation to melt metal, usually at a foundry or refinery. Your duties include operating the machine on a daily basis and performing sample tests to verify that the equipment is functional. Your responsibilities may include making detailed analyses of the materials you melt, ensuring that every melting operation is performed to specifications, and conducting maintenance and safety checks on all equipment. The career requires excellent mechanical skills and the ability to use measurement tools such as calipers, gauges, and scales.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a furnace operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Furnace Operator, you need a solid understanding of industrial furnace operations, materials handling, and safety procedures, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with control systems, temperature monitoring equipment, and potentially certifications in OSHA safety standards are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help operators respond quickly to issues and maintain safe environments. These skills are crucial for ensuring product quality, preventing accidents, and maximizing operational efficiency in industrial settings.

What are some common challenges furnace operators face when working with high-temperature equipment?

Furnace Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining precise temperature controls, ensuring safety protocols are strictly followed, and troubleshooting equipment malfunctions under pressure. Working with high-temperature equipment requires constant attention to detail and quick decision-making to prevent accidents or product defects. Operators also need to coordinate closely with maintenance teams and production supervisors to address issues promptly and minimize downtime, making strong communication skills essential in this role.

What is the difference between Furnace Operator vs Boiler Operator?

AspectFurnace OperatorBoiler Operator
CertificationsTypically requires HVAC or furnace-specific certificationsRequires boiler operation licenses or certifications
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, power plantsPower plants, heating plants, industrial facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesOperate and monitor furnaces for heat productionOperate and maintain boilers for steam or hot water
Industry UsageManufacturing, energy, and processing industriesPower generation, heating, and industrial sectors

While both Furnace Operators and Boiler Operators work in industrial settings managing heat-producing equipment, Furnace Operators focus on operating furnaces for heat generation, whereas Boiler Operators manage boilers for steam or hot water production. Certifications, work environments, and industry usage overlap, but their specific responsibilities differ based on the equipment they handle.

Is being a furnace operator hard?

Furnace operators are responsible for controlling and monitoring industrial heating equipment, which requires attention to safety protocols, technical skills, and the ability to work in potentially hazardous environments. The job can be physically demanding and often involves shift work, but with proper training and experience, it becomes manageable. Safety procedures and technical knowledge are essential components of the role.

What are popular job titles related to Furnace Operator jobs in Michigan?

For Furnace Operator jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Furnace Operator jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Furnace Operator jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Furnace Operator jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Furnace Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Furnace Operator jobs in MI?

For Furnace Operator jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Furnace Operator job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,710 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

Furnace Operator

Grand Rapids, MI

$21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Join Our Team as a Furnace Operator. 
Job Title: Furnace Operator 
Location: Grand Rapids
Pay Rate: $21/hour
Shift: 3rd Shift: 8:00 PM – 3:30 AM

Start Date: Immediate openings available.
A Furnace Operator is responsible for operating and monitoring industrial melting furnaces used in metal casting operations. This position ensures that metals are melted to the proper specifications while maintaining quality, safety, and production standards in a fast paced manufacturing environment. 

Responsibilities
  • Receive and confer work instructions from Supervisor to coordinate production schedules
  • Load specified proportions of scrap metal and pig iron into furnace
  • Weigh out specified materials for furnace charges, and load charges into melting furnace
  • Operate furnaces to specifications
  • Skim slag from surface of molten metal
  • Transfer molten metal from furnace to ladle
  • Monitor and document pouring and metal types and take periodic sample to ensure conformance to specifications
  • Maintain high standards in equipment and housekeeping
  • Understand and comply with ISO 9001 quality procedures and work instructions
  • Understand and comply with company's safe work practices, policies, and procedures

Qualifications:
-Previous foundry, manufacturing or furnace operation experience preferred.
-Ability to lift 50lbs repeatedly.
-High school diploma or GED preferred.
-Previous manufacturing or foundry experience is a plus but not required.
-Ability to work in high-temperature and noisy environments.
-Strong attention to safety and quality standards.
-Reliable attendance and a strong work ethic.
-Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Benefits: Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance upon hire

Why Join Us?

Competitive weekly pay
Opportunities for full-time employment and career advancement
Supportive work environment committed to your success
Comprehensive benefits to support your health and well-being

Ready to Take the Next Step?
Apply today by visiting ITS Staffing, selecting the Grand Rapids office, and submitting your application. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to start a rewarding career in manufacturing!

Contact:
For more information, call Melinda Luscomb @ 616-600-7953

Integrity Trade Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome all qualified candidates, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

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