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Furnace Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Position Summary The Furnace Operator is responsible for checking & assessing the operational efficiency and mechanical functionality of the casting line and related equipment. This includes charging ...

Position Summary The Furnace Operator is responsible for checking & assessing the operational efficiency and mechanical functionality of the casting line and related equipment. This includes charging ...

Furnace Operator - 2nd Shift

Elgin, IL · On-site

$17 - $20.75/hr

Start up and shut down the furnace, set up and operate the control panels & edge guide system. * Observe diagnosis and repair of minor problems. * Must be able to run equipment without direct ...

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The Heat Treat Operator is responsible for operating heat treat equipment, processing forged steel components according to customer specifications, maintaining accurate production records, and ...

One day you might be monitoring furnace temperatures, the next pouring castings, the next operating the shot blaster or automated saw, and the next preparing sand molds. You'll move throughout the ...

One day you might be monitoring furnace temperatures, the next pouring castings, the next operating the shot blaster or automated saw, and the next preparing sand molds. You'll move throughout the ...

Lovejoy, a company within the Timken family of brands, is hiring Multi Machine Operators. What ... Offload press and load/unload furnace. * Other related duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications

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Furnace Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$13

$19

$26

How much do furnace operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for furnace operator in Chicago, IL is $19.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.44 and $20.29 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 the most commonly searched types of Furnace Operator jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Furnace Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Furnace Operator jobs in Chicago, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Furnace Operator jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Furnace Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Furnace Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,030 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

Furnace Operator

PSW Group

Chicago Heights, IL • On-site

$23 - $27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Position Summary

The Furnace Operator is responsible for checking & assessing the operational efficiency and mechanical functionality of the casting line and related equipment. This includes charging the raw material provided by the warehouse. Pouring the Main and/or Small Furnace based on production requirements, while following all safety, quality, and operational protocols.

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Safety Accountability

Wears all required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

Follows all established safety procedures and plant protocols.

Understands and comply with safety standards (e.g., safety glasses, helmet, gloves, face shield, spats, etc.).

Reports all safety concerns, incidents, or potential hazards to a supervisor immediately.

________________________________________

Core Responsibilities

Monitors and operate the Casting Line and associated furnace equipment to ensure optimal performance. Must report any findings to supervisor & maintenance.

Charges and pours the Main or Small Furnace according to project specifications.

Operates equipment with attention to proper task execution and safety.

Understands inline process flow and adjusts speed as necessary to meet production targets. Will work with skimmers to adjust speeds to support production laborers in stacking efficiently.

Controls metal flow from the furnace to ensure optimal casting speed and quality.

Monitors and manages the cooling water system: Ensures proper operation by turning the cooling water on when casting begins and off when casting ends.

Engages the emergency stop (E-stop) in case of overflow or line failure and immediately alerts the team. Will receive training on the proper location and operation of the E-stop function.

Maintains cleanliness and organization of the casting line and surrounding areas.

Keeps aisles, stairways, and deck surfaces clear of debris and obstructions.

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Additional Job Requirements

  • Communicate effectively with fellow employees and supervisors.
  • Basic forklift operation skills preferred.
  • Must be physically capable of:
  • Working in hot conditions and near extreme heat sources.
  • Climbing steps regularly.
  • Operate Large Forklift with rotator & well walker pumps.
  • Operate Oxygen Lance.
  • Standing for extended periods.
  • Using and lifting furnace tools.
  • Lifting to 30 pounds plus.
  • Willingness to work in a foundry/manufacturing environment where temperature conditions vary.
  • You must comply with all safety protocols and always wear all required PPE.

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Disclaimer

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this role. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Management reserves the right to assign additional duties as necessary.

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Work Environment

This position primarily operates on the production floor with occasional time in an adjacent office or control area and training.

Exposure to hot, humid, and cold conditions based on weather and operational environment.

Frequent proximity to moving mechanical parts and heavy machinery.

Noise level variesquiet in office settings, loud in production and warehouse areas.

Must be able to frequently sit, stand, walk, and perform physical tasks consistent with manufacturing roles.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. May perform other duties as assigned.

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PEOPLE MATTER

Trialco is dedicated to fostering an open, inclusive, and trusting culture where every employee feels valued and respected. We treat all our employees fairly and with respect and dignity, regardless of their position or background. We recognize that a diverse employee community makes an invaluable contribution to the Company's goals and ideals, and we're committed to maintaining a welcoming environment for all.

Our open-door policy encourages all employees to share their thoughts, concerns, and suggestions with management. We aim to foster a culture of trust and transparency, where employees feel empowered to speak up and be heard at all levels. We actively listen to our employees and provide them with honest, responsible feedback.

The safety and well-being of our employees is of utmost importance to us, and we strive to provide the safest working conditions possible by maintaining the highest standards of safety in everything we do. From providing proper training to implementing safety protocols, we take every step necessary to ensure that our employees are protected from harm and can work safely and with peace of mind.

At Trialco, we believe that our people are our greatest asset, and we're dedicated to creating a workplace where they can thrive and grow.

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COMP & BENEFITS

Our employees are our most asset. We are committed to providing a comprehensive benefits package that helps our employees stay healthy, work-life balanced and have a sense of security. Our benefits package includes a competitive salary, discretionary bonus, the ability to participate in a 401k plan with a company match, medical, dental, vision, life, disability and other types of group and induvial coverages.

OUR VISION

Committed to providing the highest quality raw materials.

OUR MISSION

To support our customers in building their products and be their trusted partner in innovation and success by providing superior and sustainable lightweight metal solutions.

ABOUT TRIALCO

Trialco Aluminum, LLC is a versatile Primary and Secondary aluminum smelter located in the south suburbs of Chicago, IL. We specialize in producing clean, high-quality Primary and Secondary alloys for today's Die Castings, Sand and Permanent Mold Castings, Investment Castings, and other Specialty Casting Operations as well as Job Shops.

Trialco is committed to providing the highest quality raw materials to build your unique products and realize your most innovative ideas. Our products are widely used in the automotive, aerospace, communications, constructions, and electronics industries. By upholding the highest quality and environmental standards, we strive to provide consistent, superior, and sustainable lightweight solutions to meet, and exceed, our customers' needs more information, visit us at www.trialco.net.

Trialco is focused on the pursuit of innovation and excellence. By following our core values, we strongly believe we can continue to provide value to customers by setting the standard in magnesium recycling.

Trialco is an equal opportunity employer committed to workplace diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, gender identity, protected veterans' status, status as a disabled individual or any other protected group status or non-job characteristic as directed by law.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Parental leave
  • Professional development assistance
  • Referral program
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Vision insurance

Schedule:

  • 10 hour shift
  • 12 hour shift
  • 8 hour shift
  • Day shift
  • Monday to Friday
  • Night shift
  • Overtime
  • Weekends as needed

Experience:

  • Forklift: 3 years (Preferred)

Language:

  • Spanish (Preferred)
  • English (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

  • Chicago Heights, IL 60411 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

  • Chicago Heights, IL 60411: Relocate before starting work (Preferred)

Work Location: In person