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Ladle Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Nucor

Ladle Crane Operator

Blytheville, AR · On-site

The Ladle Crane Operator is responsible for the safe operation of the cab operated cranes in the center isle of the melt shop. Basic responsibilities include but are not limited to moving both full ...

Nucor Steel Auburn

Ladle Crane Operator

Blytheville, AR · On-site

The Ladle Crane Operator is responsible for the safe operation of the cab operated cranes in the center isle of the melt shop. Basic responsibilities include but are not limited to moving both full ...

Nucor Corporation

Ladle Crane Operator

Blytheville, AR · On-site

The Ladle Crane Operator is responsible for the safe operation of the cab operated cranes in the center isle of the melt shop. Basic responsibilities include but are not limited to moving both full ...

Nucor

Ladle Crane Operator

Blytheville, AR · On-site

The Ladle Crane Operator is responsible for the safe operation of the cab operated cranes in the center isle of the melt shop. Basic responsibilities include but are not limited to moving both full ...

ArcelorMittal

Ladle Crane Operator

Calvert, AL · On-site

Operating a crane to transport liquid steel in a ladle to various locations as part of steelmaking operations * Maintain and monitor crane equipment to ensure proper and safe operation * Performing ...

ArcelorMittal

Ladle Crane Operator

Calvert, AL

Operating a crane to transport liquid steel in a ladle to various locations as part of steelmaking operations * Maintain and monitor crane equipment to ensure proper and safe operation * Performing ...

ArcelorMittal

Ladle Crane Operator

Calvert, AL · On-site

Operating a crane to transport liquid steel in a ladle to various locations as part of steelmaking operations * Maintain and monitor crane equipment to ensure proper and safe operation * Performing ...

ArcelorMittal

Operator - Ladle Wall

Calvert, AL · On-site

$19.75 - $23.75/hr

Assisting or operating equipment used in the turn around an maintenance of steel ladles. * Monitor position and condition of ladle during operations. * Collaborate with Furnace operator and shift ...

ArcelorMittal

Operator - Ladle Wall

Calvert, AL

$19.75 - $23.75/hr

Assisting or operating equipment used in the turn around an maintenance of steel ladles. * Monitor position and condition of ladle during operations. * Collaborate with Furnace operator and shift ...

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Ladle Operator information

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$12

$24

$35

How much do ladle operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for ladle operator in the United States is $24.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $30.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a ladle operator?

To thrive as a Ladle Operator, you need a solid understanding of metallurgy processes, basic math skills, and experience in heavy manufacturing, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with overhead cranes, ladle pouring systems, and safety protocols, as well as OSHA certifications, are commonly required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong communication help ensure safe and efficient operations. These skills are crucial for maintaining product quality and preventing workplace accidents in the demanding environment of metal production.

What are the typical challenges faced by a ladle operator and how can they be managed?

Ladle Operators often work in high-temperature environments and must remain vigilant to ensure safety and product quality. One common challenge is managing the precise pouring and transfer of molten metal, which requires careful attention to timing, equipment condition, and temperature control. Effective communication with team members, adherence to safety protocols, and regular equipment inspections help mitigate risks and ensure smooth operations. Staying organized and proactive about potential hazards can make the role both safer and more efficient.

What is a ladle operator?

Ladle Operators are skilled workers responsible for operating and controlling ladles—large containers used to transport and pour molten metal in foundries or steel mills. They ensure the safe transfer of molten materials from furnaces to molds or other containers, monitoring temperature and flow to maintain quality and safety standards. Ladle Operators must be attentive to safety protocols, as they work with extremely high temperatures and hazardous materials. Their role is critical in the production process, helping to create metal products efficiently and safely.

What is the difference between Ladle Operator vs Furnace Operator?

AspectLadle OperatorFurnace Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety trainingHigh school diploma, safety training
Work EnvironmentSteel mills, foundries, metal plantsSteel mills, metal processing plants
Job ResponsibilitiesHandling and pouring molten metal from ladlesOperating furnaces to melt and refine metals
Industry UsageCommon in steel and metal manufacturingCommon in steel and metal manufacturing

Both Ladle Operators and Furnace Operators work in metal manufacturing environments, handling molten metals and operating specialized equipment. Ladle Operators focus on transferring and pouring molten metal using ladles, while Furnace Operators manage the melting process within furnaces. Understanding these roles helps in choosing the right career path in the metal industry.

More about Ladle Operator jobs
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What states have the most Ladle Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Ladle Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Ladle Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Ladle Operator jobs are:
Ladle Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ladle Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,869 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Ladle Operator

Commercial Metals Company

Martinsburg, WV • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 hours ago

Commercial Metals Company rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

295th of 538 rated manufacturers

Job description

it's what's inside that counts
There's more to CMC than our products and the buildings, structures, and roads they go into. At CMC, it's the people inside our recycling centers, fabrication plants, manufacturing facilities, steel mills and offices that make us who we are as a company. Our success comes from finding, retaining, and supporting the highest quality talent by offering:
  • Day 1 Benefits Coverage with low cost Medical, Vision, Dental
  • Day 1 Paid-time Off and Vacation
  • 4.5% Company Match 401(k) plan
  • $500 Annual Company-paid Lifestyle Benefit
  • Competitive Compensation and Bonuses
  • Company-paid Life and Disability Insurance
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan
  • Training and Advancement Opportunities

Why This Job
CMC provides an excellent opportunity to learn the steel, construction reinforcement and ground stabilization industries and to grow in your career. Whether you will spend your day brainstorming in an office cubicle, operating a crane, running manufacturing equipment or troubleshooting technical obstacles, at CMC, you'll get the training and support from your team that you need to excel in your role and reach your full potential.
What You'll Do
  • Assist maintenance personnel when requested/needed
  • Participate in the CMC Safety Programs and proactively uphold the CMC Safety Culture
  • Effectively communicate with others about possible production issues, concerns, and needs
  • Ensure equipment inspection reports are filled out each shift
  • Perform minor/routine maintenance or repairs as needed without the assistance of maintenance personnel
  • Responsible for continuous improvement such as suggesting improvements in work methods and procedures
  • Responsible for daily housekeeping duties including but not limited to immediate work area
  • Troubleshoot work related problems using job knowledge, experience, and by communicating with others
  • Understand start up, shutdown, and emergency procedures
  • Cleans ladles
  • Inspects slide gate system - hardware and refractories Changes parts as directed
  • Cleans and lubricates slide gate frames and housings, as required
  • Operate lancing torch to initiate metal flow from ladle or maintain slag-free point of entry into tundish
  • Prepares and uses prescribed bonding compounds

What You'll Need
  • Ability to work as a team player in a fast-paced environment, with excellent strong work ethic, attention to detail, and organizational skills
  • Ability to work with exposure to extremes in temperature, chemical, dust fumes and mists, uneven surfaces, loud noise, elevated work areas, and confined spaces
  • Basic computer skills
  • Dependability in attendance, work completion, and flexibility to meet business needs
  • Must be able to learn quickly and multitask
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs
  • Some overtime will be required
  • Work on a rotating shift which may include weekends and holidays

Your Education
  • High School Diploma or GED required

We are CMC, a Fortune 500® company at the leading edge of our industry. Our construction reinforcement and steel products have supported construction projects and structures around the world. The secret to our success? We've built our legacy by assembling a team of innovators and doers to tackle some of the most challenging construction reinforcement problems facing our world for more than 100 years - and we're just getting started.
If you're ready to join a team working to make our industry more sustainable, support the bridges, roadways, buildings and infrastructure that connects our communities, and do meaningful work, you're ready to join CMC. Apply today and start moving your career - and our world - forward. Let's build a better world!
CMC is committed to providing equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, physical or mental disability, national origin, citizenship, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, or other status protected by federal, state or local law.
From Fortune Magazine. © 2025 Fortune Media IP Limited. All rights reserved. Used under license.
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