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Kiln Operator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

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Kiln Operator information

See Illinois salary details

$11

$16

$20

How much do kiln operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for kiln operator in Illinois is $16.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $17.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

More about Kiln Operator jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Kiln Operator jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Kiln Operator jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Kiln Operator jobs in Illinois?

For Kiln Operator jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Kiln Operator jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Kiln Operator jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Kiln Operator jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Kiln Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Kiln Operator jobs in IL?

For Kiln Operator jobs in IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Kiln Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Kiln Operator job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,294 per year, or $16.5 per hour.

HIGHWAY MAINTAINER - SNOW REMOVAL OPERATOR-DISTRICT 9

Murphysboro, IL • On-site

State of Illinois
Public Administration • 11 - 50 employees

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 75 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 50 rated states

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by parents

Learn more about State of Illinoisexternal

$27.79/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Retirement

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Job Requisition ID: 58273 
Opening Date: 08/24/2026

Closing Date: 09/04/2026
​Agency: Department of Transportation
Class Title: HIGHWAY MAINTAINER - 18639 
Salary: $27.79 Hourly
Job Type: Hourly
Category: Part Time TEMPORARY ON-CALL
County: Alexander; Franklin; Hardin; Jackson; Jefferson; Johnson; Massac; Perry; Saline; Union; White; Williamson
Number of Vacancies: 50
Bargaining Unit Code: Non Bargaining Unit  

Position Locations: 

Cairo Team Section - 12863 Patierdale Rd, Cairo, IL 62914 (Alexander Co.)

West City Team Section - 107 N. Browning St, Benton, IL 62812 (Franklin Co)

Elizabethtown Team Section - 15 Jacks Point Ln, Elizabethtown, IL 62931 (Hardin Co)

Murphysboro Team Section - 15305 Hwy 127, Murphysboro, IL 62966 (Jackson Co)

Mt Vernon Team Section - 1 Fountain Place, Mt. Vernon, IL 62864 (Jefferson Co)

Vienna Team Section - 1395 US Route 45 N, Vienna, IL 62995 (Johnson Co)

Belgrade Team Section - 2813 Hwy 145, Metropolis, IL 62960 (Massac Co)

Pinckneyville Team Section - 3750 State Rte 13/127, Pinckneyville, IL 62274 (Perry Co)

Harrisburg Team Section - 1700 S. Feazel St, Harrisburg, IL 62946 (Saline Co)

Anna Team Section - 215 N Lime Kiln Rd, Anna, IL 62906 (Union Co)

Enfield Team Section - 611 First St, Enfield, IL 62835 (White Co)

Marion Team Section - 705 Robinson St, Marion, IL 62959 (Williamson Co)

All applicants who want to be considered for this position MUST apply electronically through the illinois.jobs2web.com website. State of Illinois employees should click the link near the top left to apply through the SuccessFactors employee career portal.

Applications submitted via email or any paper manner (mail, fax, hand delivery) will not be considered.

Why Work for Illinois?

Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you’re helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you’re part of something bigger—something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home.

No matter what state career you’re looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule—flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.

Position Overview

The Illinois Department of Transportation is seeking to hire temporary Snow Removal Operators for the 2026/2027 Snow and Ice Season. The Snow Removal Operators (hourly snowbird) performs a variety of tasks related to the maintenance, repair and upkeep of roads, bridges and other related structures and features. 

Essential Functions
  • Operates CDL Class A or B licensed vehicles.
  • Assists in emergency snow and ice control.
  • Assists in servicing, washing, and making minor repairs of equipment such as trucks, tractors, snowplows, salt spreaders, compressors, graders and other light highway equipment.
  • Performs routine housekeeping duties and other tasks associated with the general care of the headquarters grounds.
  • Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of those enumerated above.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Requires knowledge, skill and mental development equivalent to the completion of four years of high school.
  • For seasonal employees only, possession of a Class B CDL with appropriate endorsements, to include X or N and no airbrake restrictions, is acceptable for a period of two years. At the beginning of the third year from the initial hire date, a seasonal employee must possess a Class A CDL with appropriate endorsements, to include X or N and no airbrake restrictions.
  • Requires one year driving experience immediately preceding appointment free of incidents which could result in license suspension or revocation.
Conditions of Employment
  • Requires successful completion of a pre-employment background investigation, a pre-employment physical examination, a pre-employment drug and alcohol screening as well as on-going random drug and alcohol screenings.
  • Requires the ability to perform arduous labor outdoors in a variety of adverse conditions including, but not limited to, hot, cold, wet, windy, muddy, confined spaces, active construction sites, climbing steep terrain, roadways open to traffic and wading in water while dealing with adverse environmental conditions such as poisonous plants, animals, insects, rodents and snakes.
  • Requires the ability to understand and carry out oral and written instructions while maintaining productive working relationships.
  • This position is considered medium work as defined by the US Dept. of Labor (20 CFR 404.1567(c)). Medium work involves lifting no more than 50 pounds at a time with frequent lifting or carrying of objects weighing up to 25 pounds.
  • Operations employees are subject to call at any hour of the day or night on any day of the year in order to respond to emergencies outside of normal work hours. As a result, negotiated rate employees are required to work reasonable amounts of overtime when necessary. Any bargaining unit employee who may be required to engage in a call out shall respond to the call as quickly as practicable but in no situation can the response time exceed 45 minutes.
  • The conditions of employment listed here are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listed in the job description.

About the Agency

The IDOT team works diligently to provide safe, cost-effective transportation for Illinois in ways that enhance quality of life, promote economic prosperity and protect our environment. We are problem solvers and leaders, constantly searching for innovations and improvements in support of our commitment to providing the best multimodal transportation system for Illinois.

Our team fosters a culture of inclusivity. We value diversity and hold ourselves to the highest ethical standards as we work together for a common purpose. Team members frequently collaborate with colleagues and others outside the department to best meet customer needs. 

We invite qualified applicants to apply to become part of our team. We are confident that you will take pride in serving Illinois and its residents and visitors.

Work Hours:  As needed, Non-Permanent, Non-Benefit / On-call (October 16 – April 15, dates are dependent on weather)

Agency Contact: District 9 Personnel at: DOT.D9WinterApplications@illinois.gov or 618/351-5205

Posting Group: Public Safety; Transportation 

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

Use the “Apply” button at the top right or bottom right of this posting to begin the application process.

If you are not already signed in, you will be prompted to do so. 

State employees should sign in to the career portal for State of Illinois employees – a link is available at the top left of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon. 

Non-State employees should log in on the using the “View Profile” link in the top right of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon.  If you have never before signed in, you will be prompted to create an account.

If you have questions about how to apply, please see the following resources:

State employees: Log in to the career portal for State employees and review the Internal Candidate Application Job Aid

Non-State employees: on Illinois.jobs2web.com – click “Application Procedures” in the footer of every page of the website.

Seasonal and temporary workers should use a personal e-mail address when applying for jobs.

The main form of communication will be through email. Please check your “junk mail”, “spam”, or “other” folder for communication(s) regarding any submitted application(s). You may receive emails from the following addresses:

  • donotreply@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com
  • systems@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com
State of Illinois logo

About State of Illinois

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Illinois is not a traditional company, but rather a governmental entity encompassing diverse agencies and departments that serve the constituents of Illinois. Based in Illinois, United States, this governmental body communicates with its citizens through the official website illinois.gov. The website is a one-stop resource for Illinois residents to access information about the state's services, including education, healthcare, transportation, and public safety, among others.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Springfield, IL, US

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