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Kiln Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

AtWork - Sweetwater

Forklift Operator

Sweetwater, TN · On-site

$13.75 - $16.25/hr

Forklift Operator Position Summary: Responsible to empty hoppers (scrap and trash) throughout all ... Anytime Kiln goes down must assist at Kiln exit. Fills in on production lines as necessary.

Sazerac Company

General Labor

Medon, TN · On-site

$18/hr

... kiln areas by assisting with material handling, inventory movement, equipment support, and site upkeep. This hands-on role is ideal for someone who enjoys working outdoors, operating in a team ...

Sazerac Company

General Labor

Medon, TN · On-site

$18/hr

... kiln areas by assisting with material handling, inventory movement, equipment support, and site upkeep. This hands-on role is ideal for someone who enjoys working outdoors, operating in a team ...

CoorsTek

Engineering Technician II

Oak Ridge, TN

Be knowledgeable at operating CNC mills, Lathes, Grinders and all types of production equipment. Assists and/or perform in any and all areas as assigned such as Forming, Grinding, Kiln firing. Write ...

CoorsTek, Inc.

Engineering Technician II

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

... at operating CNC mills, Lathes, Grinders and all types of production equipment. • Assists and/or perform in any and all areas as assigned such as Forming, Grinding, Kiln firing. • Write CNC ...

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Kiln Operator information

See Tennessee salary details

$10

$15

$19

How much do kiln operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for kiln operator in Tennessee is $15.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.62 and $16.59 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.
More about Kiln Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Kiln Operator jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Kiln Operator jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Kiln Operator jobs in Tennessee? For Kiln Operator jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Kiln Operator jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Kiln Operator jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Kiln Operator jobs in TN? For Kiln Operator jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Kiln Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Kiln Operator job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, and 21% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,121 per year, or $15.4 per hour.

Kiln Operator 2nd shift

Wise Staffing Group

Baxter, TN

$17/hr

Other

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

LOCATION: Baxter, TN Hours: 6:00 pm- 6a.m $17/hour, 12 hour shift. Current hours: 7a-3p until plant is fully operational Mon-Friday. 6p-6a after operation Split 2,2,3 Shifts EFFECTIVE DATE:6/29/23 SUMMARY Major Functions & Scope: • Operates Forklifts to transport glaze to and from the glaze lines. • Follows operating procedures. • Keeps the area safe, clean and organized. • Performs other related duties as required. • Assist in Inventory control • Performs various tests to ensure quality standards are met. Experience: Previous manufacturing/production experience. Competencies: Basic math skills, organization skills, detail oriented, and safety conscious. Accurate measuring and record keeping skills. Other Job Information: While performing the duties of this job, the associate is regularly required to stand, use hands, and reach with hands and arms. The associate is required to walk, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The associate may be required to sometimes climb or balance. The associate may lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this position include peripheral vision and ability to adjust focus. While performing the duties of this job, the associate is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts. The associate may be exposed to a wide range of temperatures. The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or physical requirements. Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions



Qualifications
•
Previous manufacturing/production experience
•
Basic math skills, organization skills, detail oriented, and safety conscious
•
Accurate measuring and record keeping skills
•
The associate may be required to sometimes climb or balance
•
Specific vision abilities required by this position include peripheral vision and ability to adjust focus
Responsibilities
•
Current hours: 7a-3p until plant is fully operational Mon-Friday
•
Operates Forklifts to transport glaze to and from the glaze lines
•
Follows operating procedures
•
Keeps the area safe, clean and organized
•
Performs other related duties as required
•
Assist in Inventory control
•
Performs various tests to ensure quality standards are met
•
While performing the duties of this job, the associate is regularly required to stand, use hands, and reach with hands and arms
•
The associate is required to walk, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl
•
While performing the duties of this job, the associate is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts

Wise Staffing Group logo

About Wise Staffing Group

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Wise Staffing Group has become one of the largest staffing services in the Southeast. With 60 offices, Wise Staffing Group consists of Wise Staffing Services, Labor Source, Resource Management Group, and Wise Medical Staffing Inc. Since 1987, we have proven to be one of the most respected providers of innovative staffing solutions. Wise Staffing Group has developed and offers industry leading services that provide dependable, qualified workers. Each office sets and maintains the same high standards of operation and ongoing commitment to quality services. We consistently work toward superior performance in fulfilling our client’s needs.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Tupelo, MS, US

Year founded

1987

View All Wise Staffing Group Jobs