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Kiln Operator Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Kiln Operator (D Shift)

El Paso, TX · On-site

$16.15 - $17.75/hr

As the Kiln Operator we need someone to monitor movement of tile through the kiln firing process for the production of the ceramic tile manufacturing process. D-Shift: * Wednesday: 12:00AM-6:00AM.

As the Kiln Operator we need someone to monitor movement of tile through the kiln firing process for the production of the ceramic tile manufacturing process. Primary Objective Monitors movement of ...

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Kiln Operator information

See Texas salary details

$10

$15

$19

How much do kiln operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for kiln operator in Texas is $15.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $17.02 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 TX? For Kiln Operator jobs in TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Kiln Operator job openings in Texas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 35% As Needed, 54% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $32,972 per year, or $15.9 per hour.
Kiln Operator (D Shift)

Kiln Operator (D Shift)

Dal-Tile

El Paso, TX • On-site

$16.15 - $17.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Daltile rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 58 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

133rd of 535 rated manufacturers


Job description

Dal-Tile is currently seeking a Kiln Operator to join our MFG TEAM! As the Kiln Operator we need someone to monitor movement of tile through the kiln firing process for the production of the ceramic tile manufacturing process. 

D-Shift: 
  • Wednesday: 12:00AM-6:00AM.
  • Thursday - Saturday:6:00PM-6:00AM

Primary Objective:
  • Monitors movement of tile through the kiln firing process.  

Major Function and Scope:
  • Monitors tile entering and exiting the kiln to ensure process is operating efficiently.   
  • Inspects tile for defects. 
  • Records temperature of kiln every hour during shift. 
  • Collects tile samples for lab. 
  • Monitors equipment or processes and reports problems to supervisor. 
  • Follows ISO operating procedures and control plan. 
  • Helps maintain a team environment by cooperating and communicating with team. 
  • Ability to maintain a clean work station, conform to all safety and health requirements, and must be able to be at work station at shift change.
  • Keeps area safe, clean and organized. 
  • Complete all required training, including ergonomic, safety, health and environmental. 
  • Identify and adjust workstation arrangement, work practices, and workflow to reduce risk factors 
  • Report issues to supervisor/manager when unable to control risk factor/s. 
  • Report symptoms of injury/illness and concerns when first noted. 
  • Participate in incident investigation. 
  • Other duties as required.  

Experience and Knowledge Required:
  • High school diploma or equivalent experience.  

Competencies:
  • Good oral and written communications skills.  
  • Good record keeping skills. 
  • Good listening skills. 
  • Accurate measurement capability.  
  • Ability to understand and speak basic English. 

Other Pertinent 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 sit, climb or balance.  The associate may lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.  Specific vision abilities required by this position includes close vision, 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 is occasionally exposed to fumes or airborne particles.  The associate may be exposed to a wide range of temperatures.  The noise level is usually loud.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. 

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