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Kiln Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Idaho Forest

Boiler-Kiln Operator (Chilco)

Athol, ID · On-site

POSITION SUMMARY The Boiler/Kiln Operator maintains a wood fueled boiler to produce lumber with specified moisture content by kiln drying. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Responsibilities include but are not ...

AHF LLC

Operator, Kiln, 2nd shift

Crossville, TN

Kiln Operator, 2nd Shift. BENEFITS: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K AHF Products has a job opportunity for a Kiln Operator to be located in Crossville, TN. This position is responsible for the ...

AHF

Operator, Kiln, 2nd shift

Crossville, TN · On-site

Kiln Operator, 2nd Shift. BENEFITS: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K AHF Products has a job opportunity for a Kiln Operator to be located in Crossville, TN. This position is responsible for the ...

AHF LLC

Operator, Kiln, 2nd shift

Crossville, TN

Kiln Operator, 2nd Shift. BENEFITS: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K AHF Products has a job opportunity for a Kiln Operator to be located in Crossville, TN. This position is responsible for the ...

Cherokee Brick

Kiln Fireman

Macon, GA · On-site

Job Summary The Kiln Fireman is responsible for operating, monitoring, and adjusting tunnel kilns to ensure brick products are properly dried and fired according to production and quality standards.

Wise Staffing Group

Kiln Operator

Baxter, TN

Follows operating procedures * Keeps the area safe, clean and organized * Performs other related duties as required * Assist in Inventory control * Performs various tests to ensure quality standards ...

RHI Magnesita

Rotary Kiln Foreman

York, PA · On-site

The role oversees operator PM verification, cost tracking, emissions and dust-control monitoring, supply management, and adherence to work order priorities while optimizing kiln performance through ...

General Shale

Kiln Fireman

Stanton, KY · On-site

Kiln Fireman Stanton, KY General Shale Brick, a leading brand of General Shale, Inc., is seeking a Kiln Fireman to join our manufacturing facility in Stanton, Kentucky. This hands-on role is ideal ...

General Shale Brick

Kiln Fireman

Stanton, KY · On-site

Kiln Fireman Stanton, KY General Shale Brick, a leading brand of General Shale, Inc., is seeking a Kiln Fireman to join our manufacturing facility in Stanton, Kentucky. This hands-on role is ideal ...

General Shale Brick, Inc

Kiln Fireman

Stanton, KY · On-site

Kiln Fireman Stanton, KY General Shale Brick is seeking a Kiln Fireman to join our manufacturing facility in Stanton, Kentucky. This hands-on role is ideal for a motivated individual who thrives in a ...

General Shale Brick, Inc

Kiln Fireman

Stanton, KY · On-site

Kiln Fireman Stanton, KY General Shale Brick, a leading brand of General Shale, Inc., is seeking a Kiln Fireman to join our manufacturing facility in Stanton, Kentucky. This hands-on role is ideal ...

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KILN Operator information

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$11

$17

$21

How much do kiln operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for kiln operator in the United States is $17.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a kiln operator?

Kiln operators are skilled workers responsible for managing and controlling kilns, which are high-temperature ovens used in industries such as ceramics, cement, glass, and manufacturing. They monitor temperature, pressure, and humidity levels, adjust controls to ensure proper processing, and perform routine maintenance on the kiln equipment. Kiln operators also keep detailed records of production data and ensure safety protocols are followed to prevent accidents or equipment malfunctions. Their role is crucial in ensuring the quality and consistency of products that require thermal processing.

What does a kiln operator do?

The responsibilities of a kiln operator or kiln fireman revolve around setting up and controlling a furnace or oven to dry, bake, or burn materials. Your duties in this career depend on your employer and your industry. You usually calibrate the kiln and operate it during the firing, baking, or drying process. You are often also responsible for taking steps to slow-cool the items. As a kiln operator, you may work with lumber drier kilns or in a funeral home or other facility to operate the equipment used to cremate bodies.

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

To thrive as a Kiln Operator, you need a good understanding of kiln operation, temperature control, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with kiln control systems, temperature monitoring tools, and materials handling equipment is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are important soft skills for this role. These skills ensure efficient production, product quality, and a safe working environment in kiln operations.

What are some common challenges faced by kiln operators and how can they be managed?

Kiln Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining optimal kiln temperatures, preventing equipment malfunctions, and ensuring consistent product quality. Managing these challenges requires strong attention to detail, regular monitoring of kiln controls, and prompt troubleshooting when irregularities occur. Effective communication with maintenance and production teams is also essential for timely repairs and process adjustments, helping to minimize downtime and maintain safety standards.

What is the difference between Kiln Operator vs Furnace Operator?

AspectKiln OperatorFurnace Operator
CredentialsTypically requires high school diploma and on-the-job trainingSimilar credentials, often with additional certifications depending on industry
Work EnvironmentOperates large industrial kilns in manufacturing or cement plantsWorks with various types of industrial furnaces in manufacturing or metal processing
Industry UsageCommon in cement, ceramics, and glass manufacturingFound in metal, chemical, and power generation industries

While both roles involve operating high-temperature equipment, Kiln Operators focus on managing large kilns for materials like cement or ceramics, whereas Furnace Operators handle different types of industrial furnaces for metal or chemical processing. Both require similar skills and certifications, but their specific environments and materials differ.

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KILN Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Kiln Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,390 per year, or $17 per hour.

Boiler-Kiln Operator (Chilco)

Idaho Forest

Athol, ID • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY
The Boiler/Kiln Operator maintains a wood fueled boiler to produce lumber with specified moisture content by kiln drying.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:
  • Comprehend and perform all duties in accordance with rules, regulations and JSAs.
  • Operate boiler by maintaining required pressure and steam flow.
  • Monitor fuel in silo and be able to keep it at certain levels.
  • Dry lumber of all sorts using computer to control kiln.
  • Operate forklift to load and unload kilns, change kilns, and dump hopper.
  • Monitor kilns throughout shift and make adjustments as needed.
  • Cover sawmill/planer drivers when necessary.
  • Help with new hire training and cross training of existing team members.
  • Perform consistent work at acceptable production levels.
  • Other duties as needed.
  • The Boiler-Kiln Operator is a work-up step position. Work-up steps/Apprentice levels available.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Forklift Certification
  • Skills:
    • Ability to communicate effectively.
    • Ability to work in a team environment.

  • Ability to pass a hair follicle drug test, post-offer pre-employment physical, and background check.

  • Valid driver's license.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Previous boiler/kiln experience.
  • High school diploma or GED.
  • Boiler license.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS- Production
Ability to sit and/or stand for shift, reach with hands and arms, stoop, squat, bend at the waist, kneel, walk varying distance, and climb stairs.
  • Bend at waist - frequent
  • Twist upper body - frequent
  • Stoop - occasional
  • Lift above waist height - frequent depending on machine center
  • Lift over 50 lbs. - frequent depending on machine center
  • Repetitive use of hands - constant
  • Stand/walk - constant
  • Sit - occasional
  • Vision - near and far correctable; depth perception
  • Hearing - preferred for awareness of surrounding machinery, mobile equipment, emergencies

WORK ENVIRONMENT
Must be able to tolerate all weather elements, loud conditions, airborne particles (sawdust).
Idaho Forest Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals on the basis of race/ethnicity, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, genetic information, family medical history, or any other status protected by law.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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