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Kiln Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

CalPortland

Yard Laborer

Los Angeles, 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 · 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 · 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 ...

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 ...

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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 7, 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 is a kiln operator?

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 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.
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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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 39% Full Time, 57% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,927 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

Yard Laborer

CalPortland

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$23.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 8 days ago

CalPortland rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Job Summary
The Yard Laborer is responsible for maintaining the ready-mix plant and performing other general duties as needed. All duties are to be performed while exhibiting and championing safe work and environmental compliance practices for the incumbent as well as co-workers.
Benefits
At CalPortland, we're proud to offer a comprehensive, competitive benefits package that provides health and financial support to our most important resources: our employees. Your benefits are an important part of your overall compensation at CalPortland. That's why we give you a wide range of benefits to choose from. All regular full time employees may enroll in a variety of health and welfare plans including medical, dental and vision plans. Other benefits include life insurance, disability coverage, employee assistance program, and retirement program. The company also has a variety of voluntary benefits for employees to choose from.
Compensation
$23.50/ hr
Responsibilities
  • Responsible for the day-to-day plant clean-up and maintenance which includes: manual labor, heavy lifting, shoveling, lubrication of plant components and minor plant adjustments
  • Perform other tasks associated with the production of concrete products as assigned
  • Load, unload and move material as directed
  • Work with team members to maximize productivity and efficiency
  • Perform daily plant and equipment inspections
  • Operate and/or assists workers engaged in operating machinery and equipment used in the production process
  • Work with plant management to identify problems and potential problems that need to be addressed
  • Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental legislation, regulations, and company policies and procedures
  • Report any unsafe condition, accidents or incidents to supervisor immediately
  • Perform other duties as required/assigned

Education
High school diploma/GED
Requirements/Qualifications
  • Ability to work safely and properly follow all company policies
  • Understand the knowledge of hazards associated with areas of responsibility
  • Ability to be self-directed, with minimal supervision
  • Must be able to use proper Personal Protective Equipment as required
  • Physical requirements:
    • Sit, stand, stoop, and bend for extended periods of time (up to 8 hours)
    • Climb on equipment, stairs, and ladder as high as 400 feet in elevation
    • Walk on all types of surfaces (uneven and/or slippery ground) and crawl under and into enclosed spaces
  • Ability to lift and/or move up to 75 pounds
  • Ability to see and hear safety indicators and warnings and will have exposure to all levels of noise, requiring hearing protection
  • Must work in all weather conditions: heat, cold, wet, dry and/or dusty conditions and near hot kiln process
  • Exposure to cement, clay, limestone and various chemicals; see MSDS for more details
  • Overtime is required as needed and may include Saturdays

Preferred:
  • Familiarity with MSHA regulations
  • Preferred knowledge of all types of equipment used in the manufacturing of cement

Conditions of Employment
Successful candidate must submit to post-offer pre-employment physical examination, drug/alcohol screen, and background check. Some positions require FMCSA regulated on-going drug and alcohol testing.
Location:

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