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Kiln Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Baillie Lumber

Boiler / Dry Kiln Helper

Holland, NY

$18.25 - $19/hr

This is an entry level position that consists of assisting our boiler/kiln operators with operating and tending to our boiler to dry lumber, providing plant security, and fire watch. The Boiler/Dry ...

Weyerhaeuser Company

Kiln Forklift Operator

Idabel, OK · On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

Weyerhaeuser's Idabel, OK lumber manufacturing facility is seeking a skilled Continuous Drying Kiln Operator/Forklift Operator with a thorough and comprehensive knowledge of large forklift operation ...

Weyerhauser Co

Kiln Forklift Operator

Idabel, OK · On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

Weyerhaeuser's Idabel, OK lumber manufacturing facility is seeking a skilled Continuous Drying Kiln Operator/Forklift Operator with a thorough and comprehensive knowledge of large forklift operation ...

Baillie Lumber Co.

Boiler / Dry Kiln Helper

Holland, NY · On-site

$18.25 - $19/hr

This is an entry level position that consists of assisting our boiler/kiln operators with operating and tending to our boiler to dry lumber, providing plant security, and fire watch. The Boiler/Dry ...

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How much do kiln operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for kiln operator in the United States is $17.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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Kiln Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Kiln Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 8% As Needed, 7% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 81% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $35,390 per year, or $17 per hour.
BOILER/KILN OPERATOR - BEMIDJI, MN

BOILER/KILN OPERATOR - BEMIDJI, MN

PotlatchDeltic

Bemidji, MN • On-site

$39.08/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 hours ago

PotlatchDeltic rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 18 rated forestry and logging companies

Job description

Operate boiler systems to achieve safe and environmentally sound steam production to meet plant heat and drying needs. Operate kilns to maximize lumber grade quality, ALS certification standards, and meet mill production needs.
The hourly rate of pay for this position is $39.0784.
Key Activities/Tasks:
  • Apply lumber drying concepts and work with boiler/kiln and mill teams to improve drying results and meet quality goals.
    • Monitoring and communicating with forklift, planer, and coordinators on drying issues and results.
    • Utilize kiln control systems to consistently achieve drying goals and improve results.
    • Enter results in various spreadsheets and monitor drying results and trends against goals.
    • Troubleshoot kiln and boiler operating problems.
    • Comply with best practices as specified in the Improve ® system for achieving kiln excellence.
  • Enter all in-process lumber inventory daily and at month end into the kiln report.
  • Manually clean grates and cycle and dump ash as necessary.
  • Maintain auxiliary backup equipment.
  • Do preventive maintenance and work on related equipment daily and weekly. Utilize Maintenance Management System (AX) and write work orders as needed.
  • Monitor, record, and respond to boiler operations relative to MPCA operating permits, and operating and maintenance plans for pollution prevention.
  • Operate forklift and front-end loader to load kilns, clean ash, and load fuel.
  • Maintain good housekeeping habits.
  • Monitor fuel storage bin.
  • Inspect all fire protection systems; follow procedures as outlined on the Boiler Fire System Checklist.
  • Learn proper usage of all chemicals including appropriate PPE requirements and what to do in case of a spill or emergency.
  • Learn and have a basic understanding of the fire suppression system.
  • Maintain 5S/Total Productive Maintenance standards.
  • Assist in planning and executing semi-annual shutdowns.

Requirements:
  • MUST POSSESS a Minnesota Class 1B boiler operator license or above.
  • Ability to work independently and solely make important operating decisions directly affecting product quality and boiler operations.
  • Ability to learn and apply lumber drying concepts.
  • Ability to operate equipment safely including various types of mobile equipment (i.e. forklift, front-end loader).
  • Strong mechanical aptitude.

  • Basic knowledge of electrical systems and components.
  • Ability to coordinate, prioritize, and control multiple tasks.
  • Ability to work a 12-hour rotating shift schedule.
  • Capable of working in a boiler/sawmill environment with exposure to heat, noise, moving equipment, dust, and various weather conditions (heat, humidity, snow, and extreme cold).
  • Capable of climbing stairs and ladders, bending on a regular basis; lifting of up to 60 pounds occasionally.
  • Must be responsible, dependable, and very safety conscious.

We offer a comprehensive benefit package that includes medical, dental, vision, 401(k), life and disability insurance, paid time off, and additional voluntary benefits.
Rayonier is an EEO/Veteran/Disabled Employer.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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