ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Kettle Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Kettle Cuisine

Kitchen Machine Operator

Green Bay, WI · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Machine Kitchen Operators/ Kettle Operators are responsible to produce sauces in open kettles and carefully monitor every batch to deliver best quality products. Duties and Responsibilities Operate ...

Kettle Cuisine

Kitchen Machine Operator

Green Bay, WI · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

... Operator is responsible for preparing and producing sauces in open kettles and to monitor every ... Scoop/ fill products into kettle and place designated ingredients into kettle; monitor time and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsKettle Operator Jobs

Kettle Operator information

See salary details

$10

$16

$20

How much do kettle operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for kettle operator in the United States is $16.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $17.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a kettle worker?

A kettle worker operates and maintains large industrial kettles or tanks used in manufacturing processes, such as food production or chemical processing. They monitor temperature, pressure, and ingredient addition, often working with safety protocols and using control systems to ensure proper operation.

What is a kettle operator?

A kettle operator is responsible for operating and maintaining large industrial kettles or tanks used in manufacturing processes, such as food production or chemical processing. They monitor temperature, pressure, and ingredient addition, ensuring safety and efficiency. The role often requires knowledge of machinery, safety protocols, and sometimes certifications in industrial safety or equipment operation.

What are Kettle Operators?

Kettle Operators are workers responsible for operating large kettles or vats to cook, mix, or process food and other products according to recipes or production specifications. They measure and add ingredients, monitor temperature and consistency, and ensure safety and quality standards are met. Kettle Operators may work in food processing plants, chemical manufacturing, or other industries where precise heating and mixing are required. Their role is essential for producing consistent, high-quality products on a large scale.

What is the highest paying machine operator job?

Kettle operators are typically paid based on experience, location, and industry, with higher wages often found in manufacturing plants or facilities with specialized equipment. Advanced skills, certifications, and working in high-demand sectors can lead to higher pay for machine operators. Generally, roles involving complex machinery or hazardous environments tend to offer higher salaries.

What are some common challenges faced by Kettle Operators during production shifts?

Kettle Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining precise temperature controls to ensure product consistency and quality, as well as managing multiple batches under time constraints. They must also be vigilant in following safety procedures when handling hot equipment and cleaning agents. Additionally, effective communication with team members—including quality control and maintenance staff—is essential for troubleshooting issues and minimizing downtime. Adapting to varying product recipes and responding quickly to equipment malfunctions are important skills in this role.

What is the difference between Kettle Operator vs Boiler Operator?

AspectKettle OperatorBoiler Operator
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma and on-the-job trainingRequires a high school diploma and boiler operator license or certification
Work EnvironmentWorks in food processing, chemical, or manufacturing plants with kettles or large mixing vesselsWorks in power plants, manufacturing facilities, or industrial settings with boilers
Industry UsageCommon in food, beverage, and chemical industriesCommon in energy, power generation, and industrial manufacturing

The main difference between a Kettle Operator and a Boiler Operator lies in their specific equipment and industry focus. Kettle Operators handle large mixing vessels in food and chemical industries, while Boiler Operators manage steam-generating boilers in power and industrial plants. Both roles require technical knowledge, but Boiler Operators often need specialized licensing. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

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

To thrive as a Kettle Operator, you need knowledge of food safety regulations, basic mechanical aptitude, and experience in food or chemical processing environments, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial kettles, temperature control systems, and quality assurance protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong communication skills help ensure product consistency and safe operations. These competencies are crucial for maintaining production quality, preventing contamination, and supporting efficient workflow in manufacturing settings.

What jobs will be eliminated in the next 10 years?

Kettle operators, like many manufacturing roles, may face automation and technological advancements that reduce demand over the next decade. Jobs involving manual operation of equipment are increasingly replaced by automated systems and robotics, emphasizing the importance of skills in maintenance, programming, and technology management. Adaptability and technical training can help mitigate job displacement risks in this field.
More about Kettle Operator jobs
What states have the most Kettle Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Kettle Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Kettle Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Kettle Operator jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Kettle Operator jobs? For Kettle Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Kettle Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Kettle Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 83% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Contract, 2% Nights, and 2% Summer. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,815 per year, or $16.3 per hour.
Kettle Operator

Kettle Operator

Ajinomoto Foods North America

Portland, OR

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Position Summary

Ajinomoto Foods North America is a leading frozen foods company, committed to providing nutritious and delicious meals globally. With a rich history of diverse ethnic brands, our brands have become household favorites all across America.  We are dedicated to contributing to a healthier lifestyle through nutritious and balanced Umami foods. With a commitment to excellence and innovation, all our products are cooked with our customers in mind, providing healthy and delicious meals for all.

We are currently looking to add a Kettle Operator to our AFNA Prep team. In this position you can expect to prepare and cook raw foods, oils, and sauces using a standard recipe that ensures consistent quality across all of our products. The Kettle Cook will follow all company policies with regards to Safety, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), Food Safety and Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) standards.

Schedule: Monday - Friday with occassional Saturdays. Starting at 6:00am. 8-9 hour shifts. 

Starting pay is $20.00/hr

If you choose to work with us, you will be an integral part of a team with a rich and diverse culture that learns, grows, and succeeds together. You will also have access to some amazing benefits such as: 

  • Medical, Dental, Vision insurance on DAY ONE
  • Company paid STD, LTD, and Life Insurance on DAY ONE
  • 80 hours of vacation and 40 hours of sick time per fiscal year
  • 401(k) Retirement Savings plan that includes company’s matching contributions up to 4.5%
  • Wellness reimbursement towards gym membership and/or exercise equipment
  • Referral bonuses totaling $750 when an employee refers someone to work with our company
  • Quarterly sales of product to employees

Position Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Proper setup and breakdown of the cooking equipment at the beginning and end of the shift to ensure safe and efficient working order.
  • Ability to consistently follow recipes accurately and without any deviations. Scale ingredients according to recipes with accurate math skills.
  • Add ingredients/product into the machine, regularly lifting up to 50 lbs. 
  • Complete production paperwork and food safety HACCP checks and documentation in English. 
  • Responsible for inspecting and recognizing defective product and notifying leads/supervisors when making appropriate adjustments.
  • Maintain Production and Quality reports in an accurate and timely manner.
  • Takes ownership of assigned cooking equipment.
  • Actively engages with other members of the company to continuously strive to improve processes, create efficiencies and reduce costs.
  • Perform safe operation of various machinery during normal operation and/or during troubleshooting. 
  • Understands and adheres to the Company Allergen Management Policy and other company policies pertaining to the Kettle Operations.
  • Assist with other sections of the department as needed. 

Position Qualifications
  • Must be able to:
    • lift up to 50 lbs consistently throughout the shift
    • stay focused on the task at hand
    • work around high cooking temperatures
    • follow written and verbal instructions accurately
  • Previous cooking or batch making experience is a plus
  • Food manufacturing experience a plus
  • Lean or Kaizen or 5S knowledge a plus
  • #INDPOR
Qualifications:
  • Must be able to:
    • lift up to 50 lbs consistently throughout the shift
    • stay focused on the task at hand
    • work around high cooking temperatures
    • follow written and verbal instructions accurately
  • Previous cooking or batch making experience is a plus
  • Food manufacturing experience a plus
  • Lean or Kaizen or 5S knowledge a plus
  • #INDPOR
Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

Apply