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Kiln Operator Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Production Manager

OR ยท On-site

... kiln refractories, grinding media, and grinding aid chemicals. Informs plant management of same. * Assists with the annual budgets, ensure compliance with operating, capital, and major maintenance ...

... kiln refractories, grinding media, and grinding aid chemicals. Informs plant management of same. * Assists with the annual budgets, ensure compliance with operating, capital, and major maintenance ...

Kiln Operator information

See Oregon salary details

$12

$17

$22

How much do kiln operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for kiln operator in Oregon is $17.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.02 and $19.33 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 are popular job titles related to Kiln Operator jobs in Oregon? For Kiln Operator jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Kiln Operator jobs in Oregon look for? The top searched job categories for Kiln Operator jobs in Oregon are:
What are popular job titles related to Kiln Operator jobs in OR? For Kiln Operator jobs in OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Production Manager

Production Manager

CRH

OR โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Production Manager
Americas Cement
Durkee, Oregon, United States
Job ID: 523209
Ash Grove family of companies is one of North America's leading cement manufacturers, with a legacy of innovation and excellence dating back to 1882. The company operates 12 world-class cement plants and a vast network of 41 terminals across the United States and Canada. Renowned for its forward-thinking approach, Ash Grove combines technical expertise, robust safety standards, and empowered talent to deliver high performance and better serve our customers. At Ash Grove, we stand together to reinvent the way our world is built.
To learn more about us go to www.ashgrove.com
At Ash Grove Cement, people are our first priority. We offer a complete benefits package to include:
  • Health Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Retirement Plan
  • Paid Time Off, Paid Holidays
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Disability Pay
  • Life Insurance
  • Growth Opportunities and more!

Summary:
The Production Manager coordinates efforts with management in the planning, organizing, and scheduling activities of the employees working in the production department to produce cost-effective clinker and cement, according to quality control specifications and plant production goals. This position coordinates production activities to ensure shipping, maintenance, and quarry activities are in sync with production schedules. The position exercises direct and indirect supervision of a medium group of employees involved in production operations.
What you'll be contributing:
  • Promote and follow all plant safety guidelines.
  • Promotes and ensures compliance and training in safety procedures. Monitors production operations to promote compliance with safety regulations.
  • Plans and schedules mill and kiln operations with maintenance, quality control, shipping, and production employees.
  • Ensures efficient operation and scheduling of quarry workforce by the quarry supervisor.
  • Establishes, assigns, and communicates job responsibilities and schedules for employees involved in the production process.
  • Supervises, evaluates, and inspects work/job performance of employees and contractors. Monitors and maintains records of attendance
  • Performs daily observation and inspection of operations. Coordinates plant clean-up activities.
  • Establishes, documents, and monitors employee training guidelines and benchmarks.
  • Participates and conducts regular safety meetings and training sessions.
  • Orders safety equipment needed for production employees and checks to make sure they are used properly.
  • Monitors control room operations and raw mill and finish mill-grinding operations closely.
  • Assists control room operators and shift supervisors in resolving operational problems that will ensure production and quality goals are achieved.
  • Ensures operators are trained properly and held accountable to utilize provided training resources.
  • Coordinates incoming shipments of alternative fuels including waste oil, tire-derived fuel (TDF), and other types of alternative fuels.
  • Directs shipping supervisor in coordinating railroad and trucking activities. Ensure shipments are efficiently processed.
  • Oversees and assists in the design and implementation of plant construction projects.
  • Handles the first stages of discipline problems and grievances. Assists plant management, as requested, in resolving union problems and grievances.
  • Communicates with vendors as necessary regarding new production equipment and supplies.
  • Provides information on an ongoing basis to the Plant Manager regarding current operations and manpower status. Submits reports as requested by plant management.
  • Monitors and controls inventories for raw materials, fuels, finished products, kiln refractories, grinding media, and grinding aid chemicals. Informs plant management of same.
  • Assists with the annual budgets, ensure compliance with operating, capital, and major maintenance budgets, and adjusts activities to maintain operations within the budget.
  • Maintains adequate inventory and supplies.
  • Additional duties as assigned by supervisor

To succeed in this position, you will need:
  • Ability to read, write and understand warning labels, instructions, signs, etc.
  • H.S. Diploma / GED Required
  • Minimum 4 years - Bachelor's degree in science, engineering, or related field.
  • Minimum 7 years of experience in a supervisory position in a production department of a cement or related industry plant facility.
  • Ability to make decisions and to exercise sound judgment in arriving at a conclusion
  • Proficient in English written, verbal communication, and listening skills.
  • Proficient in problem-solving skills
  • Ability to effectively perform, organize and prioritize work independently
  • Ability to lead/manage others
  • Knowledge of production operations involved in the cement manufacturing process and machines utilized in the production process.
  • Knowledge of air permit regulations and safety requirements.
  • Knowledge of Heat Transfer functions, calculations, mill systems, and grinding media.
  • Ability to calculate heat and mass balances as well as air and gas volumes.
  • Ability to work under general supervision with specified objectives and goals.
  • Ability to refer to supervisor for clarification or interpretation of plant and organization policies.

What's next for you?
We provide stability and advancement opportunities across North America. Use our tuition reimbursement program to help you meet your career goals.
The above duties and responsibilities are representative of the nature and level of work assigned and are not necessarily all-inclusive. The physical demands, working environment, and other conditions of employment listed in this document are representative of but are not intended to provide an exhaustive list of the requirements for positions in this classification. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
What CRH Offers You
  • Highly competitive base pay
  • Comprehensive medical, dental and disability benefits programs
  • Group retirement savings program
  • Health and wellness programs
  • An inclusive culture that values opportunity for growth, development, and internal promotion

About CRH
CRH has a long and proud heritage. We are a collection of hundreds of family businesses, regional companies and large enterprises that together form the CRH family. CRH operates in a decentralized, diversified structure that allows you to work in a small company environment while having the career opportunities of a large international organization.
If you're up for a rewarding challenge, we invite you to take the first step and apply today! Once you click apply now, you will be brought to our official employment application. Please complete your online profile and it will be sent to the hiring manager. Our system allows you to view and track your status 24 hours a day. Thank you for your interest!
Ash Grove Cement, a CRH Company, is an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer.
EOE/Vet/Disability
CRH is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, status as a protected veteran or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.
AI tools may be used in certain stages of the employment lifecycle, such as candidate review; however, all final employment decisions will be made by a person.

CRH logo

About CRH

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

CRH has a long and proud heritage as one of North America's largest corporations. We are a proud reflection of the hundreds of family businesses, local and regional companies and mid to large sized enterprises that together form the CRH family. CRH operates with a decentralized, diversified structure, letting you work in a small company environment while having the career opportunities of a large enterprise.

Industry

Construction materials wholesalers

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Dublin, Dublin, IE