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Kiln Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Step into the role of a Dry Kiln Operator , you'll be responsible for operating and maintaining the kilns that dry our lumber to the right moisture content. You'll monitor the drying process, adjust ...

Step into the role of a Dry Kiln Operator , you'll be responsible for operating and maintaining the kilns that dry our lumber to the right moisture content. You'll monitor the drying process, adjust ...

Step into the role of a Dry Kiln Operator , you'll be responsible for operating and maintaining the kilns that dry our lumber to the right moisture content. You'll monitor the drying process, adjust ...

Kiln Operator Night Shift

Oxford, PA · On-site

$19.50 - $23/hr

Kiln Operator Job Status: Hourly Work Schedule: As Assigned Reports to: Kiln Coordinator Positions Supervised: None Travel Required: None Job Summary: The Kiln Operator is responsible for the overall ...

Six months of experience as a Kiln Operator I AND a valid Ohio EPA Water Supply I certification.\r\n License Requirements Must possess a valid driver's license, at time of appointment, and maintain ...

Kiln Operator II

Dayton, OH · On-site

$26.78/hr

Responsibilities Acts as the lead person responsible for the total operation of a lime kiln and directly supervises the work of the Kiln Operator I on an assigned shift. Must exercise considerable ...

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. Primary Objective Monitors movement of ...

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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 May 31, 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 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 are kiln operators?

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 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.

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 are popular job titles related to Kiln Operator jobs? For Kiln Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Kiln Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 8% As Needed, 7% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 81% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $35,390 per year, or $17 per hour.
Dry Kiln Operator

Other

Posted 10 days ago


Canfor rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Posting ID:     29261 Position Type:   Regular     City:   El Dorado, AR, United States  Location:   Iron Mountain Sawmill  

The hourly wage and bonus opportunities will vary based on position and shift.

The Opportunity:

Step into the role of a Dry Kiln Operator, you'll be responsible for operating and maintaining the kilns that dry our lumber to the right moisture content. You'll monitor the drying process, adjust controls as needed, and ensure everything runs smoothly. If you're someone who enjoys working with machinery, is attentive to detail, and takes pride in producing top-quality lumber this opportunity at our Iron Mountain sawmill in El Dorado, AR,  might just be your calling! Join us and discover a pathway for career advancement where your hard work is not only recognized but rewarded.

This role is a full-time permanent position working Monday-Friday.

What you will do as a Dry Kiln Operator:

    • Set up, operate, and monitor the dry kilns to ensure that lumber is dried to the correct specifications.
    • Regularly check the moisture levels in the lumber to ensure it meets the desired standards.
    • Perform routine maintenance on the kilns to keep them running efficiently and address any issues as they arise.
    • Adjust the kiln's temperature and humidity levels to optimize drying time and quality.
    • Maintain accurate logs of drying cycles, moisture content, and any adjustments made during the process.
    • Inspect lumber before and after drying to ensure it meets company and industry standards.
    • Follow all safety protocols and ensure that the kiln area is always kept safe and clean.
    • Safely and efficiently operate the forklift to move lumber and other materials around.

 

Experience and skills that will help you stand out:

    • Previous experience working as a Dry Kiln Operator or in a similar role in a sawmill or wood products facility is a plus.
    • Good understanding of kiln operation and drying processes, along with strong mechanical aptitude.
    • Ability to monitor the drying process closely and adjust as needed to ensure top-quality results.
    • Comfortable working in a physically demanding environment, including standing for long periods, lifting heavy objects, and working in hot and humid conditions.
    • Experience operating forklifts, with specific experience on heavy-duty forklifts, preferably in a sawmill or industrial setting.

We believe that inclusion and diversity are essential to driving productivity, creativity, innovation, and maintaining a competitive edge. Our recruitment process is designed to be fair and equitable, focusing on qualifications and experience.

At Canfor, diversity meansunderstanding, recognizing, and valuingthe differences that make each person unique. We see inclusion and diversity as essential to our productivity, creativity, innovation, and competitive advantage. Therefore, we strive for afair and equitable recruitment process where hiring decisions are based on each applicant's qualifications and experience.


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