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Smelter Operator Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Recycling Smelter Operator

Muncie, IN ยท On-site

$23.58/hr

Smelter Operators Wanted Element Resources is currently recruiting for Smelter Operators at our facility in Muncie, Indiana! Starting Pay Rate over $23.58 per hour! One of Muncie's long-standing ...

Recycling Smelter Operator

Muncie, IN ยท On-site

$23.58/hr

Overview Element Resources is currently recruiting for Smelter Operators at our facility in Muncie, Indiana! Starting Pay Rate over $23.58 per hour! One of Muncie's long-standing companies is hiring!

Recycling Smelter Operator

Muncie, IN ยท On-site

$23.58/hr

Overview Element Resources is currently recruiting for Smelter Operators at our facility in Muncie, Indiana! Starting Pay Rate over $23.58 per hour! One of Muncie's long-standing companies is hiring!

Smelter General Mechanic

Newburgh, IN ยท On-site

$22.50 - $29.50/hr

Operator cranes and other power-driven equipment * Revise, update, and work from blueprints, sketches, charts, and manuals * Order parts and materials * Record failure analysis/root causes. * Conduct ...

Operator cranes and other power-driven equipment * Revise, update, and work from blueprints, sketches, charts, and manuals * Order parts and materials * Record failure analysis/root causes. * Conduct ...

$22.75 - $29.75/hr

Operator cranes and other power-driven equipment * Revise, update, and work from blueprints, sketches, charts, and manuals * Order parts and materials * Record failure analysis/root causes. * Conduct ...

Smelter Operator information

See Indiana salary details

$13

$18

$25

How much do smelter operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for smelter operator in Indiana is $18.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $19.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Smelter Operator vs Furnace Operator?

AspectSmelter OperatorFurnace Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety training, sometimes certifications in metallurgyHigh school diploma, safety training, sometimes certifications in industrial operations
Work EnvironmentIndustrial smelting facilities, metal production plantsManufacturing plants, metal or chemical processing facilities
Employer & IndustryMining, metal refining, mineral processingManufacturing, metal fabrication, chemical industries

The main difference between a Smelter Operator and a Furnace Operator lies in their specific work environments and focus. Smelter Operators primarily work in metal refining facilities overseeing smelting processes, while Furnace Operators work in various manufacturing settings managing different types of industrial furnaces. Both roles require safety training and similar certifications, but their industry applications and daily tasks differ slightly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Smelter Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Smelter Operator, you need a solid understanding of metallurgical processes, equipment operation, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with control systems, furnace operation, and monitoring tools is essential for daily tasks. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help operators maintain safety and production efficiency. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safe operations, minimizing downtime, and achieving production targets in hazardous industrial environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Smelter Operators and how can they be addressed?

Smelter Operators often face challenges such as maintaining consistent process temperatures, handling the physical demands of the role, and ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols in a high-risk environment. Effective communication with team members and supervisors is essential to quickly identify and resolve operational issues. Operators can address these challenges by staying current with safety training, using proper protective equipment, and actively participating in regular equipment maintenance. Developing strong teamwork skills and a keen attention to detail can also contribute to a smoother workflow and a safer workplace.

What are Smelter Operators?

Smelter Operators are skilled workers responsible for controlling and monitoring furnaces and other equipment used to melt and refine metals from their ores. They ensure the smelting process runs safely and efficiently, adjust temperature and chemical levels, and troubleshoot any issues that arise. Smelter Operators also keep detailed records of production data and follow strict safety protocols to protect themselves and the environment from hazardous materials.
What are popular job titles related to Smelter Operator jobs in Indiana? For Smelter Operator jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Smelter Operator jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Smelter Operator jobs in Indiana are:
Infographic showing various Smelter Operator job openings in Indiana as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,611 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

Recycling Smelter Operator

Element Resources

Muncie, IN โ€ข On-site

$23.58/hr

Other

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Smelter Operators Wanted

Element Resources is currently recruiting for Smelter Operators at our facility in Muncie, Indiana! Starting Pay Rate over $23.58 per hour!

One of Muncie's long-standing companies is hiring! Element is one of the leading Battery Recycling facilities in the country and has been a mainstay in the Muncie community for over 30 years. Did you know that batteries are the most recycled product in the world with a more than 99 percent recycling rate? Element provides an essential supply of recycled products to America's battery manufacturers to produce high quality, top performing batteries to power cars, trucks and forklifts, which are vital to keeping our country's supply chain running. A Recycling Smelter Operator generally is responsible to operate a piece of equipment or perform tasks at the direction of the supervisor. The Operator also may work with a senior operator to carry out operations in an operating system or unit; the operator may be asked to perform as part of a team. The operator is also responsible for performing work in a safe and environmentally responsible manner. Work may be performed in Blast Furnace, Refinery, or Breaker departments. Apply online or text recyclingjobs to 678-506-7168 to begin your pre-screening process!

Responsibilities

The duties assigned to an Operator may vary with the area assigned. Specific duties are described in operating instructions for each area or piece of equipment. Duties will include, but not be limited to, the following:

  • Load and operate high-speed blenders
  • Operate blending/milling equipment
  • Operate smelters and spray dryer, record temperature at specified intervals
  • Empty smelter.
  • Package material for shipments, including weight and quantities
  • Operate a fork and/or lift truck
  • Perform any other tasks as assigned by a supervisor.
  • Train other Operators when assigned to do so by supervisor.
  • Work with minimal supervision
  • Work in a safe and environmentally sound manner
  • Clean and lubricate all equipment
  • Maintain good housekeeping
  • May be required to relieve other Operations
  • Any other miscellaneous duties
Qualifications
  • Able to operate equipment basic power and hand tools and possibly some heavy equipment such as a forklift, man-lift, loader, dozer, etc.
  • Able to understand and follow both verbal and visual instructions regarding plant safety and operations.
  • Comprehend and apply basic math skills e.g. addition, subtraction, etc.
  • Able to satisfy a Pulmonary Function Test within OSHA standards and wear a respirator
  • Regular attendance is a requirement for this position.
  • Must be able to lift, bend, reach and twist with loads for periods of time. Throughout the day, actual lifting may be from 15 to 50 lbs. and up to 100 lbs. on an infrequent basis.
  • High School and or technical/vocational training preferred

PREFERRED:

  • Recycling, smelting, metallurgical processing plant experience, or other relevant industrial experience
  • Working knowledge of pumps, flow processes, e.g. throughput, valves, and electrical and understanding units of measurement e.g. psi, flow rate, gpm, amps, etc.

Element Resources encourages candidates with Military training and/or experience to apply.

EEO Statement

Element Resources is an equal opportunity employer where an applicant's qualifications are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other basis prohibited by law.

About Statement

Element Resources (elementrellc.com) is one of the largest battery recycling companies in the United States. Recycling recovers 99% of all lead received at our recycling centers. Every year we recycle millions of pounds of lead and recover and neutralize millions of gallons of sulfuric acid. Our robust, highly controlled recycling process is a critical part of our commitment to environmental sustainability.