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Kiln Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Connect Staffing

Production Furnace Operator

Mira Loma, CA · On-site

$19.66/hr

Previous experience operating a furnace, heat treat equipment, kiln, or annealing equipment. * Background in wire, metal, cable, or industrial production environments. * Experience reading production ...

New

Arcosa LWB, LLC

Maintenance Technician

Frazier Park, CA

$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 ...

Bullseye Glass Co.

Be Seen First

Art Retail Sales & Studio Technician

South Pasadena, CA · On-site

$24.12/hr

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 ...

UNACEM North America

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.

Arcosa Lightweight

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 ...

CalPortland

Utility Specialist/Loader Operator

Napa, CA · On-site

$35 - $39/hr

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 ...

CalPortland

Utility Specialist/Loader Operator

Napa, CA · On-site

$35 - $39/hr

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 ...

CalPortland

Utility Specialist/Loader Operator

Napa, CA · On-site

$35 - $39/hr

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 ...

CalPortland

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 ...

CalPortland

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 ...

CalPortland

Yard Laborer

Torrance, CA

$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 ...

CalPortland

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 ...

Duravant

Technical Support Engineer

Woodland, CA

... 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 ...

WECO

Technical Support Engineer

Woodland, CA · On-site

... 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 ...

DURAVANT LLC

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 ...

CEMEX

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 ...

CEMEX

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 ...

All JobsKiln Operator JobsKiln Operator Jobs in California

Kiln Operator information

See California salary details

$11

$16

$20

How much do kiln operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 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.
More about Kiln Operator jobs
What are popular job titles related to Kiln Operator jobs in California? For Kiln Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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:
Kiln Operator jobs near you
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.

Production Furnace Operator

Connect Staffing

Mira Loma, CA • On-site

$19.66/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Connect Staffing is hiring a Furnace Operator for a wire manufacturing facility in Fontana, CA. This is a temp-to-hire overnight position paying $18.66–$20.66/hr, with training on first shift before transitioning to 3rd shift. In this role, you will operate and monitor industrial furnace equipment used in the wire manufacturing process, loading and unloading wire and production materials and maintaining temperature settings to meet quality standards. This position offers stable hours and long-term placement potential.


Pay: $18.66–$19.66/hr

Schedule: 2nd shift: Sunday–Saturday, 2pm–10:30pm (training on 1st shift)

Location: Fontana, CA

Job Type: Temp-to-Hire

Primary workplace language(s): English / Spanish

Work Environment: Manufacturing Plant / Factory


Responsibilities

  • Operate and monitor industrial furnace equipment according to production schedules and work instructions throughout the shift.
  • Load and unload wire and production materials into furnace areas safely.
  • Inspect finished material for quality and notify supervisors of any concerns.
  • Read and follow production work orders and manufacturing specification sheets.
  • Record production activity and complete required shift documentation.
  • Follow all PPE, safety, and lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures and report equipment or safety issues immediately.


Minimum Requirements

  • 6+ months of experience in manufacturing, production, machine operation, or an industrial environment.


Preferred Qualifications

  • Previous experience operating a furnace, heat treat equipment, kiln, or annealing equipment.
  • Background in wire, metal, cable, or industrial production environments.
  • Experience reading production work orders or manufacturing specification sheets.
  • Forklift or material handling experience.
  • Ability to communicate effectively in English and Spanish.
  • You may be a great fit if you've held any of these titles: Production Furnace Operator, Furnace Operator, Heat Treat Operator, Annealing Operator, Industrial Machine Operator, Manufacturing Operator, Metal Processing Operator, Wire Manufacturing Operator, Production Associate, Industrial Production Worker.


Pre-Employment Requirements

  • E-Verify / work authorization required.
  • Steel toe boots required (employee-provided).
  • Ability to stand, bend, lift, and move throughout the shift.
  • Ability to work in a hot industrial environment around furnace equipment.
  • Ability to communicate effectively in English and Spanish.


Benefits

  • Weekly pay.
  • Direct deposit / Paycard.
  • Health and dental benefits available.
  • Earn referral bonuses.
  • CalSavers retirement program available.


After you apply, please check your email for a short screening questionnaire from us. Candidates who complete it promptly will be reviewed faster.


See all our current openings at jobs.connectstaffing.com

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