ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Kiln Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Dal-Tile

Machine Operator - D Shifts (Night)

Muskogee, OK · On-site

$16.97 - $17.97/hr

As the Kiln Operator we need someone to monitor movement of tile through the kiln firing process for the production of the ceramic tile manufacturing process. D Shift Schedule: * Wednesday: 12:00 AM ...

Weyerhaeuser Company

Kiln Forklift Operator

Dierks, AR

$22.53/hr

The Dierks, AR lumber manufacturing facility is looking for skilled Continuous Drying Kiln Operator/Forklift Operator with a thorough and comprehensive knowledge of large forklift operation and the ...

Weyerhauser Co

Kiln Forklift Operator

Dierks, AR · On-site

$22.53/hr

The Dierks, AR lumber manufacturing facility is looking for skilled Continuous Drying Kiln Operator/Forklift Operator with a thorough and comprehensive knowledge of large forklift operation and the ...

Weyerhaeuser Company

Kiln Forklift Operator

Dierks, AR

$22.53/hr

The Dierks, AR lumber manufacturing facility is looking for skilled Continuous Drying Kiln Operator/Forklift Operator with a thorough and comprehensive knowledge of large forklift operation and the ...

Baillie Lumber Co.

Boiler / Dry Kiln Helper

Holland, NY · On-site

$18.25 - $19/hr

This is an entry level position that consists of assisting our boiler/kiln operators with operating and tending to our boiler to dry lumber, providing plant security, and fire watch. The Boiler/Dry ...

Collins

Kiln Apprentice (swing shift)

Chester, CA · On-site

$23.64/hr

The Kiln Apprentice learns to operate and maintain the dry kilns with the goal of developing the skills to become a Kiln Operator. Duties/Responsibilities*: * Comply with safety standards at all ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsManufacturing JobsKiln Operator Jobs

KILN Operator information

See salary details

$11

$17

$21

How much do kiln operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 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.

More about KILN Operator jobs

What cities are hiring for Kiln Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Kiln Operator job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Kiln Operator jobs?

The most popular types of Kiln Operator jobs are:

Who are the top companies hiring for Kiln Operator jobs?

The top employers for Kiln Operator jobs are:

What states have the most Kiln Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Kiln Operator jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Kiln Operator jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Kiln Operator jobs are:

What are popular job titles related to Kiln Operator jobs?

For Kiln Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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.

Kiln Forklift Operator - Day (Laclede)

Idaho Forest

Laclede, ID • On-site

$26.83/hr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:
  • Comprehend and perform all duties in accordance with rules, regulations and JSAs.

  • Follow safety protocols and report hazards to ensure a safe work environment.

  • Operate and oversee the functioning of kilns to ensure that temperature and drying schedules are met.

  • Monitor kiln schedules to ensure that materials are processed correctly.

  • Complete regular moisture readings to ensure they meet moisture targets.

  • Assist with the performance of maintenance and troubleshooting of kiln equipment, ensuring all systems are working efficiently.

  • Maintain detailed records of kiln temperatures, times, and other pertinent data. Report issues or anomalies to supervisors.

  • Safety Compliance: Follow safety guidelines to minimize risks related to high temperatures and hazardous materials.

  • Coordinate with Production Teams: Work closely with other departments such as production, maintenance, and quality control to meet production targets and resolve issues.

Wage starting at $26.83. Shift is 4am-4pm Thursday through Saturday and every other Wednesday.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Certification: Forklift certification.

  • Attention to Detail: Ability to monitor and adjust processes to ensure quality and efficiency.

  • Safety Awareness: Knowledge of safety protocols and best practices for working with high-temperature machinery.

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

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Valid driver's license.

  • High School Diploma or equivalent.

  • Understanding of kiln operation, temperature control, and materials processing.

  • Mechanical Skills: Ability to troubleshoot and perform basic repairs on kiln equipment.

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.
NOTE
This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate qualified individuals with known disabilities. To perform this job successfully, the employee(s) will possess all the skills, aptitudes, experience, education, abilities, and any other necessary attributes to perform each duty to IFG's expectations. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, and every employee's employment remains at-will.
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.

Apply