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Ladle Operator Jobs in Decatur, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Ladle Operator information

See Decatur, IL salary details

$11

$23

$34

How much do ladle operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for ladle operator in Decatur, IL is $23.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.81 and $29.13 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.

What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Ladle Operator jobs? Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Ladle Operator job openings:
Ladle Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ladle Operator job openings in Decatur, IL 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 $49,341 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Iron Pourer

voestalpine Railway Systems Nortrak LLC

Decatur, IL • On-site

$22.50 - $23.35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description




Join Our Team at voestalpine Railway Systems Nortrak!

Embark on a rewarding career journey with voestalpine Railway Systems Nortrak, North America's premier designer and manufacturer of special trackwork. With a legacy spanning 160 years, we lead the industry in shaping the future of rail solutions. As part of the voestalpine Railway Systems global network, we are committed to delivering quality products and services, including rails, turnouts, fastening systems, signaling technologies, and monitoring solutions. Operating with a presence across Canada, the US, and Mexico, we prioritize the well-being of our people, global mobility, and sustainability and innovation.

Our people are the foundation of our success. Skilled, motivated, and results-driven individuals shape our culture demonstrating our core values of Respect, Responsibility, Curiosity, Courage, Passion, and Diversity each day. This commitment is more than shared values; it extends to shared responsibilities for safety and quality, showing genuine care for one another's growth and development, a commitment to our customers, and fostering strong relationships within the Nortrak Team and with our customers.

We are currently looking for an Iron Pourer to join our team in Decatur, Illinois.

PURPOSE OF POSITION

Reporting to the Department Supervisor, the Iron Pourer is responsible to deliver or pour iron, ladle rebuild and run manganese on the molding line.

Task and Responsibilities:

  • Receive iron into pouring ladle from treatment ladle.
  • Add alloys to pouring ladle during transfer.
  • Move ladle to disa line to pour.
  • Pour iron into disa molds until full.
  • Be able to pour iron neatly but at a pace necessary to keep up with disa cycle times.
  • Pig iron after fade-out time.
  • Maintain pour spout and throat openings.
  • Keep ladle clean from slag build-up.
  • Empty, replace and repair starter blocks
  • Maintains clean and safe work area.
  • Adhere to Nortrak’s Environmental, Safety and Quality Procedures, Practices and Policies.

Job Requirements (e.g., education, experience, skills and desired competencies)

  • High School graduate or GED preferred.
  • Experience in Forklift and Crane operations is an asset.
  • Ability to read work orders and blueprints preferred.
  • Experience with measuring tools preferred.
  • Basic mathematical calculation experience in adding and subtracting whole numbers, fractions and decimals.

Physical Demands:

  • Frequent standing, walking, stooping, kneeling, crouching, climbing, and pushing, pulling, or lifting objects for the duration of your required schedule shift.
  • Use hands and arms to operate tools, handle materials, and reach for the duration of your required scheduled shift.
  • Regularly lift and carry 30–35 pounds; occasionally lift up to 50 pounds.
  • Required vision abilities include close, distance, color, peripheral vision, depth perception, and focus adjustment.
  • Hearing abilities necessary to perform job tasks safely and effectively.

Working Location:

  • Decatur, Illinois.

Salary:

  • $22.50/hr - $23.35/hr

Benefits:

  • A supportive, family oriented Nortrak Blue culture
  • We provide an environment where Health and Safety is our #1 priority
  • Career development opportunities and competitive pay progression
  • Competitive medical, dental & vision benefits
  • Company paid life and disability insurance
  • Paid holidays and vacation
  • Retirement plan with matching contributions
  • Tuition Assistance Program
  • Wellness Program
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Employee Recognition Programs

If you think you have the necessary qualifications and drive to excel in our team, we invite you to apply now and join us at voestalpine Railway Systems Nortrak. Apply today!

voestalpine Railway Systems Nortrak (“Nortrak”) is a subsidiary of voestalpine AG (www.voestalpine.com) one of Europe’s premier steel producers with over 50,000 employees worldwide. Nortrak is closely affiliated with voestalpine’s Railway Systems group which operates in 21 countries across the globe to provide cutting edge system-based solutions to railroads and transits. Our website is https://www.voestalpine.com/nortrak/en/

voestalpine Railway Systems Nortrak is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, and any other federal, state, or locally protected classifications.






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