1

Kettle Operator Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

The Kettle Operator inspects materials prior to galvanizing, safely operates overhead cranes and equipment, monitors kettle and pre-treat settings and dips the product in the kettle. Essential Duties:

The Kettle Operator inspects materials prior to galvanizing, safely operates overhead cranes and equipment, monitors kettle and pre-treat settings and dips the product in the kettle. Essential Duties:

This position is in Cargills protein and salt business, where we provide wholesome, high-quality food products to a wide range of customers, from foodservice operators and grocery stores to ...

Machine Operator 1st Shift

Dallas, TX · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

... operator's manual. • Check printer for proper code date. • Set ... Kettle screen to automatic mode. • Responsible for dry pick up. Brake down at end of shift ...

Machine Operator 1st Shift

Dallas, TX

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

... operator's manual. • Check printer for proper code date. • Set ... Kettle screen to automatic mode. • Responsible for dry pick up. Brake down at end of shift ...

Machine Operator - GAW 2nd Shift

Houston, TX · On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Not a climate controlled environment As a Merchants Metals Galvanized Line Wire Operator you will ... zinc kettle, adding zinc ingots, and replacing charcoal and flux • Operate an industrial fork ...

Utility 1 | Dinner Line 3 | Days

Austin, TX

$16.50 - $20.25/hr

Our portfolio includes the iconic Campbell's brand, as well as Cape Cod, Chunky, Goldfish, Kettle Brand, Lance, Late July, Pacific Foods, Pepperidge Farm, Prego, Pace, Rao's Homemade, Snack Factory ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Kettle Operator information

See Texas salary details

$9

$15

$18

How much do kettle operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for kettle operator in Texas is $15.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.09 and $16.59 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.
What are popular job titles related to Kettle Operator jobs in Texas? For Kettle Operator jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Kettle Operator jobs in Texas look for? The top searched job categories for Kettle Operator jobs in Texas are:
What are popular job titles related to Kettle Operator jobs in TX? For Kettle Operator jobs in TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Kettle Operator job openings in Texas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $31,503 per year, or $15.1 per hour.
Kettle Operator I - Nights

Kettle Operator I - Nights

Sabre Industries

Conroe, TX • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


Sabre Industries rating

5.6

Company rating: 5.6 out of 10

Based on 54 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

520th of 535 rated manufacturers


Job description

At Sabre Industries, we connect and power America's communities with world-class utility and telecom solutions. We reliably build a better world together; one customer, one team, and one community at a time.

Our teams live out the organization's core values of integrity, commitment, innovation, and connection. That's how we continuously exceed our high standards of enterprise excellence-by creating a space for our engaged employees to thrive.

With consistent hiring opportunities nationwide and countless career levels, chances are the next big step on your career path starts here. We work with our employees to create customized career paths and development in all facets of the organization. People will always be our greatest asset and we place emphasis on enhancing the lives of our employees.

Scope of Responsibilities:

This position works at the kettle or pre-treat area and performs the actual galvanizing process where steel is initially prepped in the pre-treat area and then galvanized in the kettle. The Kettle Operator inspects materials prior to galvanizing, safely operates overhead cranes and equipment, monitors kettle and pre-treat settings and dips the product in the kettle.

Essential Duties:

  • Ensure all galvanized products meet Sabre quality requirements and promote efficiency and uptime
  • Operate overhead crane to maneuver heavy steel products hanging from large racks
  • Inspect all lifting equipment prior to use (forklifts, cranes, etc)
  • Ensure ash is swept from kettle on a continual basis. Ensure ash is free of zinc and store ash in barrels for later use
  • Add zinc and other alloys to the kettle and pre-treat in order to maintain proper levels and proper quality of product. May require operating forklifts
  • Dross kettle (remove sludge) on a pre-determined schedule according to Sabre guidelines
  • Maintain safe and efficient kettle temperatures and kettle zinc levels at all times.
  • Read work orders or receive oral instructions to determine work assignments or material or equipment needs
  • Adhere to established housekeeping standards
  • Additional duties as assigned by Supervisor and/or Management

Position Requirements:

  • Experience using cranes required
  • Experience using forklift highly desired
  • Prior Galvanizing and/or Manufacturing experience highly preferred
  • Ability to communicate in English required
  • High School Diploma or GED Equivalent preferred
  • Regular and timely attendance is required

Physical Requirements:

  • Heavy work. Exerting up to 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 75 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 50 pounds of force constantly to move objects
  • Must be able to perform physical activities that require considerable use of arms and legs and moving entire body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, tugging, stooping, bending, twisting, crawling and handling of materials
  • Position requires manual dexterity, ability to pick/pinch and work with fingers, repetitive motions of wrists/hands/finger, arm-hand steadiness and a safety-minded individual
  • Effectively and safely utilizes ladders, manlifts, forklifts, overhead cranes, etc. Ascend or descend ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps, poles and the like, using feet and legs and/or hands and arms.
  • Must be able to work in an open environment for long shifts (including weekends) exposed to extreme temperatures, standing entire shift
  • Must have the ability to concentrate on tasks for long periods of time and be able to observe and receive information from all relevant sources
  • The worker is required to have visual acuity to make general observations of facilities or structures

At Sabre Industries, we invest in your future with a competitive benefits program. As a full-time employee, you are eligible for:

  • Medical, Dental & Vision coverage
  • 401(k) with Company Match
  • Continuing Education & Tuition Reimbursement
  • Life and Disability Coverage
  • Paid Time Off & Paid Holidays
  • Health and Wellness Resources
  • Employee Discounts

Sabre Industries is an Equal Opportunity Employer: M/F/Vets/Disabled/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity


What Sabre Industries employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom