Process Engineer
Gary, IN · On-site
Establishes best practice Kiln Operating Guidelines, Standard Operating Procedures, and Operating Parameters * * Creates and Communicates Daily Instruction Sheets in alignment with Kiln Operating ...
Process Engineer
Gary, IN · On-site
Establishes best practice Kiln Operating Guidelines, Standard Operating Procedures, and Operating Parameters * * Creates and Communicates Daily Instruction Sheets in alignment with Kiln Operating ...
Production Supervisor
Gary, IN · On-site
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
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
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
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
Kiln Operator information
See Chicago, IL salary details
$12.14 - $13.02
4% of jobs
$13.02 - $13.90
4% of jobs
$13.90 - $14.78
0% of jobs
$14.78 - $15.66
6% of jobs
$15.66 - $16.54
6% of jobs
$16.65 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$16.54 - $17.42
30% of jobs
$17.42 - $18.29
17% of jobs
$18.81 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$18.29 - $19.17
12% of jobs
$19.17 - $20.05
6% of jobs
$20.05 - $20.93
9% of jobs
$20.93 - $21.81
5% of jobs
$12
$17
$21
How much do kiln operator jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 31, 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?
| Aspect | Kiln Operator | Furnace Operator |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Typically requires high school diploma and on-the-job training | Similar credentials, often with additional certifications depending on industry |
| Work Environment | Operates large industrial kilns in manufacturing or cement plants | Works with various types of industrial furnaces in manufacturing or metal processing |
| Industry Usage | Common in cement, ceramics, and glass manufacturing | Found 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 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:
Process Engineer
Gary, IN • On-site
Carmeuse •
1 - 5K employees1,001 - 5,000 employees
7.3
Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
20th of 41 rated mining
People enjoy working here
Good employer
Paid breaks
Respectful managers
Good training
Full-time
Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement
Re-posted 23 days ago
Job description
- Tasks
Supports company initiatives involving safety, digitization, and sustainability.
Performs daily site safety walks and employee (safety) engagements
Identifies process barriers and bottlenecks, develops action plans, executes them, and assesses results.
Establishes best practice Kiln Operating Guidelines, Standard Operating Procedures, and Operating Parameters
Creates and Communicates Daily Instruction Sheets in alignment with Kiln Operating Guidelines and Operating Parameters
Provides technical support to production, maintenance, environmental, and quality.
Monitors reliability of the processes to define paybacks for improvements.
Perform inspections during major outages of refractory, instrumentation, and prepare shutdown reports.
Document problems related to the process or systems as seen or received from production. Reviews result with plant team to initiate, recommend, provide and/or implement solutions.
Conducts process and energy audits to identify opportunities for improvement.
Tracks and performs raw material analysis for the best use of the available fuels and stone conducting cost benefit calculations.
Monitors stone quality, size and gradation, and fuel quality analysis and their impact on product quality.
Trains operational personnel.
Drives environmental compliance testing.
Performs other duties as assigned.
the execution of all duties and activities.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Owns operations strategy of the plant, giving direction to production of how to operate the kilns to meet production KPI's.
Owns refractory strategy and budget for the plant and is accountable for its financial performance.
Managing the process capabilities of the rotary lime kiln, Pulverizer Mill, and other material handling systems on site.
Monitoring, tracking, and continuous improvement of the stone feed system, calcining process, lime quality, and accuracy of all inputs to production, stone, fuels, additives, post-production packaging, etc.
Building strong relationships with all groups within the site, region, and company to ensure seamless communication and productivity.
Production, operational efficiency of the kiln process, and oversight of employee capability and productivity regarding the kiln process.
Production consistency ensuring product quality and respecting environmental limits.
Ensuring a safe work environment in the execution of all duties and activities.
Qualified candidates will have a Bachelor of Science Degree in Chemical Engineering, Minerals Processing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related fields.
5+ years' experience in an Engineering role within maintenance or operations.
Experience in Root Cause Analysis and troubleshooting.
Industry background in manufacturing related to mining, paper mills, steel plants, refractory, heavy equipment fabrication, stone processing, cement plants, rotary kilns, etc. Lime or cement experience is preferred.
Qualified candidates will exhibit a positive and proactive attitude with high initiative and the ability to perform with minimal supervision.
Able and willing to spend most of the time in the plant with the operators, maintenance personnel, and contractors; and able to communicate production and process plans effectively.
Able to do limited travel to other sites and regions as needed.
Good technical aptitude and analytical skills.
Detail and process oriented with strong problem resolution abilities.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Must be able to support a continuous improvement environment as well as support change management initiatives.
Competitive wages aligned with education and experience
- 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
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.
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.
About Carmeuse Americas
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Company size
1,001 - 5,000 Employees
Headquarters location
Pittsburgh, PA, US
Year founded
1860
