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Kiln Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Frequently to stock glass; wrap glass; loading and unloading kiln shelves; · operating cold working equipment (sand blasters; grinders; polishers; dremel; tile saw) pallet · jacks; forklift; kilns ...

New

Maintain contact with kiln operators and quality control to ensure material quality is met * Climb into and around mobile and plant equipment to make necessary adjustments * Participate in general ...

Laborer

Tehachapi, CA

$17 - $21.25/hr

Kiln Maintenance: Assist with kiln relining tasks, including hauling, hoisting, or passing bricks ... Departmental Support: Assist departmental control room operators and perform other assigned duties.

Maintenance Technician

Frazier Park, CA · On-site

$25.42 - $35.59/hr

Maintain contact with kiln operators and quality control to ensure material quality is met * Climb into and around mobile and plant equipment to make necessary adjustments * Participate in general ...

Must work in all weather conditions: heat, cold, wet, dry, and/or dusty conditions and near hot kiln * Experience operating loaders, man lifts, and forklifts * Experience operating equipment outside ...

Must work in all weather conditions: heat, cold, wet, dry, and/or dusty conditions and near hot kiln * Experience operating loaders, man lifts, and forklifts * Experience operating equipment outside ...

Must work in all weather conditions: heat, cold, wet, dry, and/or dusty conditions and near hot kiln * Experience operating loaders, man lifts, and forklifts * Experience operating equipment outside ...

Luber

Oro Grande, CA · On-site

$35.47 - $37.47/hr

Reports any operating irregularities in equipment to the Maintenance Supervisor * Makes minor ... kiln process * Exposure to cement, clay, limestone, and various chemicals; see MSDS for more ...

Yard Laborer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$23.50/hr

Operate and/or assists workers engaged in operating machinery and equipment used in the production ... Must work in all weather conditions: heat, cold, wet, dry and/or dusty conditions and near hot kiln ...

Operate and/or assists workers engaged in operating machinery and equipment used in the production ... Must work in all weather conditions: heat, cold, wet, dry and/or dusty conditions and near hot kiln ...

Yard Laborer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$23.50/hr

Operate and/or assists workers engaged in operating machinery and equipment used in the production ... Must work in all weather conditions: heat, cold, wet, dry and/or dusty conditions and near hot kiln ...

... kiln moisture monitoring, and small fruit sorting of blueberries, cranberries, olives, coffee ... Support other operating companies as needed based on business requirements Travel: * Up to 50 ...

... kiln moisture monitoring, and small fruit sorting of blueberries, cranberries, olives, coffee ... Support other operating companies as needed based on business requirements Travel: * Up to 50 ...

Technical Support Engineer

Woodland, CA · On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

... kiln moisture monitoring, and small fruit sorting of blueberries, cranberries, olives, coffee ... Support other operating companies as needed based on business requirements Travel: * Up to 50 ...

TECHNICIAN QUALITY CONTROL

Ontario, CA · On-site

$18.75 - $24/hr

Mix Design Oversight: Assist with product mix design and understand the impact of changes on kiln ... Frequent walking, lifting (up to 50 lbs.), standing, and operating equipment. Ability to ...

TECHNICIAN QUALITY CONTROL

Ontario, CA

$18.75 - $24/hr

Mix Design Oversight: Assist with product mix design and understand the impact of changes on kiln ... Frequent walking, lifting (up to 50 lbs.), standing, and operating equipment. Ability to ...

Kiln Operator information

See California salary details

$11

$16

$20

How much do kiln operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for kiln operator in California is $16.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.91 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 jobs pay $700 a day?

Kiln operators typically do not earn $700 a day; their wages are usually lower and depend on experience and location. High-paying jobs that can reach or exceed $700 daily often include specialized roles such as certain construction managers, project managers, or skilled trades with overtime or premium pay. These roles often require specific certifications, experience, and sometimes working long or irregular hours.

What is the highest paid equipment operator?

Among equipment operators, crane operators and heavy equipment operators tend to have the highest salaries, often earning over $60,000 annually depending on experience, location, and certifications. Kiln operators typically earn less than these roles, with salaries varying based on industry and complexity of the equipment operated.

What is a kiln operator?

A kiln operator is responsible for controlling and monitoring industrial kilns used in manufacturing processes such as ceramics, cement, or metallurgy. They ensure proper temperature, pressure, and timing to produce quality products, often using control panels and safety procedures. The role typically requires technical skills, attention to detail, and adherence to safety standards.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

Kiln operators typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are usually associated with executive roles, specialized medical professionals, or successful entrepreneurs. High-paying jobs often require advanced skills, extensive experience, or ownership of a business. Most kiln operators earn a median salary well below this threshold, with top earners making significantly less.

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 job categories do people searching Kiln Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Kiln Operator jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Kiln Operator jobs in CA? For Kiln Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Kiln Operator job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,927 per year, or $16.8 per hour.
Art Retail Sales & Studio Technician

Art Retail Sales & Studio Technician

Bullseye Glass Co.

South Pasadena, CA • On-site

$24.12/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

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Job description

Do you crave colorful surroundings? Enjoy art, craft, and people, too?  Bullseye Glass Co., an international art glass manufacturer, seeks a full-time Sales & Studio Technician for its Resource Center in South Pasadena, CA.

Join a 50-year legacy of supplying the world with art glass that appears in museums, cathedrals, parks, courthouses, hospitals—even the US Capitol Dome. Locally owned and operated since 1974, Bullseye Glass Co. is a growing company that has always worked shoulder-to-shoulder with artists and architects, uniting creativity and industry, inspiration and perspiration, nationwide and worldwide.


Summary

The position requires a self-directed team player with an interest in sales, art, education and working with glass.  The individual should be able to anticipate needs in order to assist customers, the store manager and other sales & studio technicians.  The ability to problem solve and provide high quality customer service is essential.  Sales will be driven primarily through education via customer/student interaction, classes, and in-store demonstrations. 

 

Primary Responsibilities

 

Sales

 

·  Greet customers

·  Sell products and classes

·  Accurately operate Point of Sale System, manage financial transactions, and balance drawers

·  Direct customers to merchandise within the store

·  Recommend products and classes

·  Have a comprehensive understanding of product line and its use in kiln-forming

·  Help customers with questions, which may be related to quality of product, billing, pricing and user technical issues

·  Maintain an orderly appearance throughout the sales floor

·  Wrap sheet glass

 

 

Studio technician

·  Assist in daily store and studio functions

·  Assist customers in classes and Open Studio

·  Help keep the studio clean and equipment maintained

·  Load and unload kilns

·  Prime kiln shelves

·  Program kilns

·  Demonstrate to customers how to use studio equipment

Other Sales & Studio Technician Functions

·  Have a complete understanding of pricing & discount levels

·  Maximize store sales through outstanding customer service

·  Demonstrate in-store tools and techniques

·  Help create in store displays and educational samples

·  Help manage store inventory

·  Receive and stock inventory

·  Assist and attend in-store customer functions

·  Occasional attendance at events away from the store

Essential Qualifications

·  4-year degree preferably in Fine or Studio Art/equivalent experience

·  Knowledge of Mac and PC, Excel, Microsoft Word, Outlook, and presentation software

·  2 years of prior Retail Sales or Customer Service experience

·  Maintain an upbeat and friendly attitude

·  Ability to read, write and perform basic math; proficient in the English language.

·  Ability to multi-task

·  Ability to work in a small team

·  Teaching experience

·  Excellent organizational and communication skills

·  Ability to problem solve

·  Accuracy is critical for all phases of the job

·   Valid driver’s license

·   Knowledge of art history & aesthetics

·   Hands-on experience in the arts preferred

·   Ability to lift up to 40 lbs.

Physical requirements / Use of Senses

 

·   Standing/walking:  Frequently.  While working the retail floor and teaching classes.

·   Sitting: Seldom.

·   Lifting/carrying:  Frequently. Typical weight between 1 to 40 lbs. For lifting glass; ceramic molds;

·   kiln shelves; stocking of supplies, as well as assisting customers with merchandise.

·   Handling/grasping: Frequently to stock glass; wrap glass; loading and unloading kiln shelves;

·   operating cold working equipment (sand blasters; grinders; polishers; dremel; tile saw) pallet

·   jacks; forklift; kilns.

·   Speaking/hearing:  Frequently.  To speak with co-workers, students and customers. Follow

·   verbal instructions.

·   Finger dexterity:  Frequently.  To operate the POS system/Computer work/handling glass and

·   other supplies.

·   Near vision:  Frequently. For computer work; coldworking; teaching.

·   Far vision:  Frequently.

Mental requirements / Attributes

 

·   Interaction with others:  Frequently.  Communicates with co-workers, and customers in person

·   and over the phone.

·   Attention to detail:  Frequently.  Accuracy is critical for almost all phases of the job.

·   Critical judgment:  Frequently.  May need to identify problems or assess situations quickly.

·   Positive attitude:  Continually.  Essential while working in an environment with customers,

·   students and coworkers.

 

·  Operation of Equipment / Tools

 

·   Various tools:  Frequently.  To operate cold-working equipment, pallet jacks, drills, glass

·   wrapping equipment, kilns, glass cutting equipment.

Company Description

Our Mission
We collaborate with a community of artists around the globe to produce quality art glass and promote quality glass art.
Bullseye Glass Company is a manufacturer of colored glass for art and architecture with worldwide distribution and a strong commitment to research, education, and promoting glass art. We are based in Portland, Oregon.
Since 1974, we have collaborated with a community of artists worldwide and have been instrumental in developing many of the fundamental materials and methods at the core of contemporary kiln-glass. We're widely known as the first company in the world to formulate and manufacture glasses that are factory-tested for fusing compatibility. We're also recognized for key contributions to the kilnforming, kilncasting, flameworking, and coldworking methods used to create glass art.
Bullseye is a small company with worldwide influence.
Our factory in Portland, Oregon sets the standard for quality in colored glass for art and architecture.
Our research and education programs continually enrich and extend the reach of contemporary kiln-glass.
Bullseye Projects (formerly Bullseye Gallery) presents and promotes the work of innovative artists from around the globe.