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Kiln Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Communicate site operating targets and results and solicit feedback on causes for gaps relative to ... Technical knowledge of heat and material balance, kiln equipment, and refractories a positive

Communicate site operating targets and results and solicit feedback on causes for gaps relative to ... Technical knowledge of heat and material balance, kiln equipment, and refractories a positive

Production Supervisor

Gary, IN · On-site

$70 - $90/hr

... site operating targets and results and solicit feedback on causes for gaps relative to sales ... kiln or reheat furnace experience, a plus; willing and able to work rotating shifts in a 24/7/365 ...

Kiln Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$17

$21

How much do kiln operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for kiln operator in Chicago, IL is $17.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $18.85 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Kiln Operator jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Kiln Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:

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

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

What job categories do people searching Kiln Operator jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Kiln Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Kiln Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,486 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Production Supervisor

Carmeuse

Gary, IN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 22 days ago


Carmeuse rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 41 rated mining


Job description


The Production supervisor oversees the plant production activities; directly supervise the activities of the front-line production employees charged with the performance and verification of production activities throughout the lime plant to support continuous improvement of the site manufacturing operations to enable manufacturing of lime products at the lowest sustainable cost and quality.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Responsible for providing leadership to ensure all company safety rules and agency regulations are observed by all employees. This includes providing a safe workplace, planning the necessary resources in manpower and budgeting to accomplish site safety goals

  • Communicate site operating targets and results and solicit feedback on causes for gaps relative to sales, production, training and maintenance targets

  • Manage employee, environmental and public relation concerns; as assigned

  • Support regulatory compliance with environmental regulations for the lime facility

  • Provide day-to-day supervision of hourly employees ensuring effective job performance and task completion

  • Execute work plans and daily activities

  • Participate in required meetings, investigations, and other activities associated with site leadership; as appropriate

  • Provides task training to employees to ensure technical competence of employees is maintained

  • Supervise and ensure conformance to the company safety and environmental programs

  • Identify and initiate actions to prevent the occurrence of any nonconformities relating to product or process

  • Oversee the loading of raw materials into the operation as well as shipments and distribution of finished goods and materials

  • Ensure appropriate records and data are input into SAP and other management applications; as required

  • Actively assess work environment to remove potential safety and environmental risks

  • Comply with union collective bargaining agreement and company policies and ensure supervisory actions do not violate them

BASIC REQUIREMENTS:
  • Qualified candidates will have an associate's degree in a technical discipline or technical certificate; or related experience

  • Minimum of 7 years related experience of direct production supervisory experience in a heavy manufacturing environment with focus on quality, safety, environmental matters, process & people; industry background in manufacturing related to mining, paper mills, steel plants, refractory, heavy equipment fabrication, stone processing, cement plants, etc., highly preferred

  • Strong material management skills; must be results driven & a self-starter

  • Positive & proactive attitude with ability to address issues and implement solutions as required; easily understands & follow directions

  • Detail & process oriented with strong problem resolution abilities; basic understanding of SPC charts and Pareto analysis; rotary kiln or reheat furnace experience, a plus; willing and able to work rotating shifts in a 24/7/365 facility

Knowledge
  • Technical knowledge of heat and material balance, kiln equipment, and refractories a positive

  • Possesses strong analytical thinking skills to provide a logical, in-depth analysis of a problem or situation

  • Demonstrates strong problem solving and decision-making skills

  • Extensive knowledge and background of continuous manufacturing and production processes, knowledge and experience working contemporary concepts of continuous improvement and Lean Manufacturing

Skills
  • Demonstrated ability to assess organizational and people issues, provide coaching and mentoring, and deliver solutions that improve facility performance; Demonstrated ability to take initiative, strong organization and prioritization skills;

  • Demonstrates the ability to apply appropriate conflict management strategies to ensure conflicts are resolved to the benefit of all parties.

  • Establishes and maintains highly productive working relationships across the organization with all groups within the region and the company; demonstrating respect for conflicting points of view, listens to others, and builds strong working relationships.

  • Demonstrates excellent technical writing skills for producing SOP, reports, and other appropriate communications.

  • Knows appropriate negotiating tactics and is able to negotiate win/win agreements without compromising principles.

  • Demonstrates the ability to manage maintenance projects using project management methodology and techniques.

  • Uses quality management skills toensure all procedures and work activities conform to work specifications and standards.

  • Demonstrates the ability to work autonomously with an emphasis on being results oriented

  • Demonstrate strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills

  • Possess strong organizing skills and able to multi-task

  • Possess excellent problem solving and decision-making ability

  • Possess good computer skills; Microsoft office suite and SAP

  • Possess solid management skills with strong communication and interpersonal skills

  • Demonstrated experience in dealing with Provincial and Federal regulatory agencies and how they impact the safety and environmental aspects of the business

  • Demonstrated ability to work in a team environment and adapts to fast-paced changing environments

Benefits Package Includes:
  • Group medical/pharmacy insurance options
  • Dental insurance & Vision insurance
  • A 401k account with company matching contribution
  • Annual Incentive Program
  • A robust Wellness program with financial rewards
  • Company-paid life insurance and short-term and long-term disability insurance
  • Optional Insurance to provide additional coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) at no additional cost
  • Employee Referral Program with bonus

ABOUT US
READY TO JOIN A ROCK-SOLID FAMILY?
Carmeuse started out as a small family-run business in Belgium. Today it's a leading global producer of lime, high calcium limestone and dolomitic stone. Its products are essential to energy producers, environmental services, construction and manufacturing. With over 90 production facilities spread across almost every continent, and over 4,500 employees working at Carmeuse every day, the company's most treasured resources are its people.
Carmeuse is dedicated to maintaining a workplace that fosters equal opportunity and creates a diverse and inclusive work environment. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, sexual orientation or gender identity. If you require particular assistance with any part of the application or hiring process due to a disability, you can submit your request by sending an email to hrsupport@carmeuse.com. This option is reserved for people requiring adaptation due to a disability. The information received will be processed by Carmeuse and then directed to a local recruiter who will provide assistance to ensure the proper consideration of the application or hiring process.
About Us
READY TO JOIN A ROCK-SOLID FAMILY?
Carmeuse started out as a small family-run business in Belgium.
Today it's a leading global producer of lime, high calcium limestone and dolomitic stone. Its products are essential to energy producers, environmental services, construction and manufacturing.
With over 90 production facilities spread across almost every continent, and over 4,500 employees working at Carmeuse every day, the company's most treasured resources are its people.
Carmeuse is dedicated to maintaining a workplace that fosters equal opportunity and creates a diverse and inclusive work environment. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, sexual orientation or gender identity.
About the Team
You will be part of Carmeuse North America, a Rock-Star team of 2500 workers and employees bringing with them their own culture and specific needs. The North American headquarters is located in Pittsburgh, PA and has over three dozen production facilities across the U.S. and Canada.

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