1

Smelter Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Our modern aluminum smelter will require trained and skilled operators. Position Summary : This position is for a role in the maintenance department at Howmet Aerospace's Barberton Aluminum Remelt ...

The smelter processes copper concentrate primarily from our company's Arizona copper mines and is ... Develop and implement training programs for boiler operators and maintenance personnel. This ...

Smelter experience, with the ability to understand the safety, production, and coordination demands of an aluminum operating environment. * A strong safety mindset and the ability to use human ...

Chief Boiler Engineer

Claypool, AZ · On-site

$120K - $167K/yr

The smelter processes copper concentrate primarily from our company's Arizona copper mines and is ... Develop and implement training programs for boiler operators and maintenance personnel. This ...

Our modern aluminum smelter will require trained and skilled operators. Position Summary : This position is for a role in the maintenance department at Howmet Aerospace's Barberton Aluminum Remelt ...

Showing results 41-60

Smelter Operator information

See salary details

$14

$19

$26

How much do smelter operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for smelter operator in the United States is $19.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $20.91 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 does a smelter operator do?

A smelter operator is responsible for controlling and monitoring equipment used to extract metals from ore through the smelting process. They operate furnaces, ensure safety protocols, and perform routine maintenance to keep the operation running efficiently. Knowledge of industrial machinery, safety standards, and sometimes certifications in hazardous materials are important for this role.

How much does a smelter operator make?

A smelter operator typically earns between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the smelting processes. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators with certifications can earn higher wages. Overtime and shift differentials can also increase total compensation.

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 is a smelter operator?

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.
More about Smelter Operator jobs

What cities are hiring for Smelter Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Smelter Operator job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Smelter Operator jobs?

The top employers for Smelter Operator jobs are:

What states have the most Smelter Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Smelter Operator jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Smelter Operator jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Smelter Operator jobs are:

Infographic showing various Smelter Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,576 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Maintenance Technician (Cast House)

Howmet Aerospace

Barberton, OH

$37.50 - $45.36/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Howmet Aerospace rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 161 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

48th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Maintenance Technician - Cast House

  • Day Crew (7AM-7PM) -12 Hour Crewing
  • Night Crew (7PM-7AM) -12 Hour Crewing
  • Starting Rate: $37.50/hour+ based on experience

Are you an energetic and dependable employee that takes pride in your craft? Would you like to be a part of a dynamic and growing manufacturing business in Barberton, OH? Our organization is dedicated to rapid, profitable growth through continuous capital investment, operational excellence, and career development. Howmet is a company that promotes and develops from within with worldwide opportunities and we're looking for someone like you to join our team as a Full-Time Maintenance Technician (Day & Night Crew Available, 7AM-7PM; 7PM-7AM) in a cast house production environment. If you are interested in taking the next steps in your career, we encourage you to apply!

Company Benefits: We offer eligible employees a comprehensive benefits package designed to assist employees and their families with financial security, health, and well-being. In addition to competitive pay, we off a variety of benefit programs.

  • Medical, Life, Dental and Vision Plans
  • 401(k) Program with a Company Match
  • Performance Pay based on company results
  • Paid vacation accrual
  • 10 annual paid holidays
  • Employee discount programs
  • Starting at $37.50-$45.36/hr with an additional $1.00/hr shift differential for night crew

WHAT IS A CAST HOUSE?

The Cast House is a structure that holds an aluminum smelter. Howmet Aerospace's smelters are among the safest in the world. Our modern aluminum smelter will require trained and skilled operators.

Position Summary:  This position is for a role in the maintenance department at Howmet Aerospace’s Barberton Aluminum Remelt Foundry, known as the Howmet Barberton Cast House. The plant operates a state-of-the-art and highly automated continuous horizontal aluminum casting operation on a nonstop (24/7/365) schedule. This is a fast paced and safety critical operation.

The position is tasked with the daily maintenance requirements for maintaining the equipment and cast lines operational, which includes championing the safety of all crew members, maintaining the integrity of equipment and other facility upkeep tasks with an emphasis on machine repair.

The maintenance technician is tasked with supporting all aspects of the maintenance organization, performing preventative maintenance on equipment throughout the lifecycle of the casting process, troubleshooting malfunctioning equipment and performing repairs, and participating in reviews and special projects aimed at increasing equipment reliability.
 
Essential Duties:

  • Repairs, maintains and troubleshoots continuous process machinery performing mechanical and electrical repairs on equipment such as motors, pneumatic systems, conveyor systems, hydraulic systems, water systems, production machines and equipment in accordance with diagrams, specifications and operator’s manuals.
  • Dismantles devices and machines to gain access to and remove defective parts using hoists, hand tools, power tools, and cranes
  • Performing necessary maintenance work, such as replacing pumps, motors, chains ,spokets, cables, repair or replace drives, troubleshoot PLC logic, fabricate and mount guards, troubleshoot and adjust hydraulics.
  • Maintains personal safety equipment and promotes BCC Safety Regulations
  • Completes required PM’s and associated paperwork (CMMS System) Akron

Basic Qualifications

  • High School Diploma or GED (from an accredited institution)
  • Minimum of two years' experience performing mechanical OR electrical maintenance in a manufacturing environment
  • Knowledge and experience reading electrical and hydraulic drawings/schematics

Preferred Qualifications

  • Knowledge and experience working with combustion systems
  • Demonstrated knowledge and competencies relating to employee, equipment and product safety
  • Experience with equipment troubleshooting
  • Knowledge of mechanical and electrical repairing of machines, machine parts and maintenance practices
  • Experience with performing preventative maintenance on equipment
  • Five years experience performing mechanical and electrical maintenance in a manufacturing environment or foundry

Working Conditions:

  • Full time. Occasional weekend over-time work required.

Physical Demands:

  • Lifting :  Moderately Heavy - Lift on an occasional basis a maximum of 40 pounds
  • Standing:  Constantly (greater than 80% of workday)
  • Walking:  Constantly (greater than 80% of workday)
  • Bending and Twisting:  Constantly (greater than 80% of workday)
  • Temperature Extremes (percent of time working in non-climate controlled, production environment):  Constantly (greater than 80% of workday)
  • Noise (percent of time working in noisy, production environment):  Constantly (greater than 80% of workday)

This description is a general statement of duties and responsibilities performed on a regular and continuous basis.  This description is not intended to be all inclusive and other related duties may be assigned.  

  • Employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. 

What Howmet Aerospace employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Howmet Aerospace logo

About Howmet Aerospace

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE: HWM), headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a leading global provider of advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries. The Company's sales for 2021 approximated $5 billion. The Company's primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems, titanium structural parts and forged wheels. With nearly 1,150 granted and pending patents, the Company's differentiated technologies promote more fuel efficiency for aircraft and commercial transportation. Howmet is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Pittsburgh, PA, US

Year founded

1888