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Ladle Operator Jobs in Chelsea, OK (NOW HIRING)

Iron Pourer 3rd Shift

Pryor, OK · On-site

$1 - $29.61/hr

Able to tap a ladle, at the right amount, and kind of metal. The ability to perform the duties of crane operator, furnace operator or ladle repair are required as needed. This position may be ...

Able to tap a ladle, at the right amount, and kind of metal. The ability to perform the duties of crane operator, furnace operator or ladle repair are required as needed. This position may be ...

Able to tap a ladle, at the right amount, and kind of metal. The ability to perform the duties of crane operator, furnace operator or ladle repair are required as needed. This position may be ...

Ladle Operator information

See Chelsea, OK salary details

$10

$20

$29

How much do ladle operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for ladle operator in Chelsea, OK is $20.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $25.48 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.

Infographic showing various Ladle Operator job openings in Chelsea, OK as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,108 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Iron Pourer 3rd Shift

American Castings, LLC

Pryor, OK • On-site

$1 - $29.61/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

At AMERICAN Castings we specialize in gray and ductile iron castings. We are a member of the AMERICAN family of iron and steel manufacturers that together has a collective total of more than 500 years of manufacturing experience. The family originated with and was founded as AMERICAN Cast Iron Pipe Company in Birmingham, Alabama in 1905.We have a wide range of customers and serve diverse markets such as agriculture, construction, energy, mining, and waterworks with in-depth expertise in each field. Our proficiency in engineering and metallurgy, rigorous maintenance and reliability practices and being vigilant about continuous improvement and productivity initiatives helps keep our customers with us year after year and enables us to deliver a quality product at a competitive price.*SAFETY SENSITIVE POSITION*Perform all necessary tasks to pour molds in pouring floor and/or automatic molding lines from ladles. Operates power driven trolley and hoist to move ladles to holding furnace where molten metal is poured into the ladle. May weigh and ready alloys and add predetermined quantity of alloy at alloy addition station and take ladle to pouring line. Performs duties to pour into molds from ladles. Check melt for slag and other impurities and remove slag and impurities as necessary. Place pre-heater in ladle when not in use. Ability to maintain proper metal flow and continuity to produce quality castings is required. Visually check color of metal to judge pouring temperature and vary pouring techniques to conform with metal types and casting design to avoid strains, cold shuts, misruns, sand washes, and gas blows. Use and maintain chipping gun. Drive forklift to move pig molds and slag bins. Assist with maintaining records, reline furnace performing brick work, mix refractory materials, and repair and replacement of refractory. Assist with closing and clamping mold. Able to tap a ladle, at the right amount, and kind of metal. The ability to perform the duties of crane operator, furnace operator or ladle repair are required as needed. This position may be classified as a lead person which will perform job duties as assigned. Keep work area clean and orderly. Know safety rules that apply to the safety of others and to personal safety. Perform other work as instructed by supervisor.*A complete job description is available in Human Resources*