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Torch Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SA Recycling

Torch Cutter

Macon, GA · On-site

As a Burner/Torch Operator you must be able to work outside in all weather conditions while wearing the appropriate safety and weather protection gear. No Facial hair for safety purposes Working ...

United Scrap Metal Inc

Torch Operator

Shelbyville, IN · On-site

$15/hr

Position Overview The Torch Operator sorts, segregates and cuts material using company equipment to achieve company goals. He or she will primarily torch-cut material to customer specification with ...

SA Recycling

Torch Cutter

East Point, GA · On-site

As a Burner/Torch Operator you must be able to work outside in all weather conditions while wearing the appropriate safety and weather protection gear. No Facial hair. Working hours are from Monday ...

SA Recycling

Burner/Torch Operator

New Castle, PA · On-site

The Burner/Torch Operator is responsible for cutting oversize or large ferrous material through use of an oxy-fuel torch (torch cart) to a size acceptable as determined by the steel mill. As a Burner ...

SA Recycling

Torch Cutter

East Point, GA

As a Burner/Torch Operator you must be able to work outside in all weather conditions while wearing the appropriate safety and weather protection gear. No Facial hair. Working hours are from Monday ...

SA Recycling

Burner/Torch Operator

New Castle, PA · On-site

The Burner/Torch Operator is responsible for cutting oversize or large ferrous material through use of an oxy-fuel torch (torch cart) to a size acceptable as determined by the steel mill. As a Burner ...

SA Recycling

Torch Cutter

Macon, GA · On-site

As a Burner/Torch Operator you must be able to work outside in all weather conditions while wearing the appropriate safety and weather protection gear. No Facial hair for safety purposes Working ...

United Scrap Metal Inc

Torch Operator

Land O Lakes, FL · On-site

$18/hr

Position Overview The Torch Operator sorts, segregates and cuts material using company equipment to achieve company goals. He or she will primarily torch-cut material to customer specification with ...

Go McPherson

Plasma Torch Operator

Mcpherson, KS · On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

Plasma Torch Operator Position Summary The Plasma Torch Operator is responsible for safely setting up, operating, and maintaining CNC plasma cutting equipment to produce quality parts that meet ...

Go McPherson

Plasma Torch Operator

Mcpherson, KS · On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

Plasma Torch Operator Position Summary The Plasma Torch Operator is responsible for safely setting up, operating, and maintaining CNC plasma cutting equipment to produce quality parts that meet ...

SA Recycling

Torch Cutter/ Burner

Atlanta, GA · On-site

As a Burner/Torch Operator you must be able to work outside in all weather conditions while wearing the appropriate safety and weather protection gear. No Facial hair. Working hours are from Monday ...

B-5 Trucking

Cutting Torch Operator

Salina, KS · On-site

$16.75 - $20.25/hr

Operators must identify different metal types (ferrous vs. non-ferrous) and sort them. * Understanding of different gases (oxygen, acetylene, propane), torch tip sizes, and how to adjust flame ...

nssco

Track Torch Operator - Beveler

Houston, TX · On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

Track Torch Operator - Beveler (Oxy-Fuel Track Torch) Position Summary At North Shore Steel, precision matters. As a Bevel Operator, you will play a critical role in supporting some of our most ...

SA Recycling

Torch Cutter/ Burner

Atlanta, GA · On-site

As a Burner/Torch Operator you must be able to work outside in all weather conditions while wearing the appropriate safety and weather protection gear. No Facial hair. Working hours are from Monday ...

North Shore Steel

Track Torch Operator - Beveler

Houston, TX · On-site

$16.75 - $20.25/hr

Track Torch Operator - Beveler (Oxy-Fuel Track Torch) Position Summary At North Shore Steel, precision matters. As a Bevel Operator, you will play a critical role in supporting some of our most ...

nssco

Track Torch Operator - Night Shift

Houston, TX · On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

As a Beveler operating Track Torch, you will play a critical role in supporting some of our most important customer relationships. The quality, accuracy, and consistency of your work directly impact ...

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All JobsTorch Operator Jobs

Torch Operator information

See salary details

$13

$18

$24

How much do torch operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for torch operator in the United States is $18.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $20.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Torch Operator, you need a solid understanding of metal cutting techniques, blueprint reading, and safety procedures, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with oxy-fuel cutting equipment, plasma torches, and sometimes CNC systems is typically required, along with relevant safety certifications like OSHA. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and strong problem-solving skills help Torch Operators excel and work safely. These skills are crucial for ensuring precise cuts, maintaining workplace safety, and efficiently meeting production demands.

What are some common safety challenges faced by torch operators, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Torch Operators often work with high-temperature equipment and flammable materials, making safety a top concern. Common challenges include managing sparks, handling hot metal, and working in environments with limited ventilation. To address these issues, operators should consistently use personal protective equipment (PPE) such as flame-resistant clothing, gloves, and face shields, and follow strict safety protocols. Regular safety training and clear communication with team members are also essential to minimize risks and ensure a safe work environment.

What is the difference between Torch Operator vs Welder?

AspectTorch OperatorWelder
Required CredentialsOSHA certification, technical trainingWelding certifications (e.g., AWS, CWI)
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilitiesConstruction sites, fabrication shops
Industry UsageMetal cutting, fabrication, maintenanceMetal joining, structural welding
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

While both Torch Operators and Welders work with metal in industrial settings, Torch Operators primarily focus on cutting and heating metals using torches, requiring specialized training and certifications. Welders specialize in joining metals through welding techniques, often holding welding certifications. Their work environments overlap but differ in specific tasks and skill sets, making these roles distinct yet related in metal fabrication industries.

What is a torch operator?

Torch operators are skilled workers who use cutting torches or thermal cutting equipment to cut, trim, or remove metal parts in manufacturing, construction, or demolition settings. They typically work with materials like steel or iron, following blueprints or specifications to make precise cuts. Torch operators must understand safety procedures and be able to handle high-temperature equipment safely. Their work is essential in preparing metal for fabrication, repair, or recycling.
More about Torch Operator jobs
What states have the most Torch Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Torch Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Torch Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Torch Operator jobs are:
Torch Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Torch Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,187 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

Torch Cutter

SA Recycling

Macon, GA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 16 days ago

SA Recycling rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

65th of 90 rated recycling and waste

Job description

SA Recycling is looking for a Burner/Torch Cutter who will be responsible for cutting oversize or large ferrous material through use of an oxy-fuel torch to a size acceptable as determined by the customer.

As a Burner/Torch Operator you must be able to work outside in all weather conditions while wearing the appropriate safety and weather protection gear.

No Facial hair for safety purposes 

Working hours are from  Monday through Friday, with Saturday hours as needed.

Responsibilities for the Burner/Torch Operator

  • Ensure all materials are safely and properly staged for processing.
  • Cut oversized ferrous materials to desired specifications using an oxy-fuel torch.
  • Inspect and maintain all torch equipment to ensure safe and efficient working conditions.
  • Strictly adheres to all company and safety rules and regulations regarding the proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
  • Inspect and maintain work area for fire control and to eliminate trip/fall hazards.
  • The process involves high temperatures and flammable gases, so a clean, well-ventilated workspace and proper safety gear, including eye protection, are crucial to prevent injuries. 

Qualifications for a Burner/Torch Operator

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Must pass Background check
  • Must complete Physical and pass a Drug Screen
  • Bi-lingual (English and Spanish) a plus
  • Experience with Oxy-Fuel torch preferred
  • No Facial hair 
  • General knowledge of scrap metal processing preferred
  • Mechanical background preferred

SA Recycling offers:

  • Competitive Pay
  • Full time positions with Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
  • 401k with a Company Match
  • Weekly Pay
  • Referral Incentives
  • Company provided uniforms and PPE
  • Eligible for Safety and Profitability Bonuses

PLEASE NOTE: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job.  They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required.

An offer of employment by SA Recycling is contingent on the satisfactory completion of a post-offer drug screen, physical exam, and background check with a credit check (if position specified). 

All US applicants must be 18 years of age or older.

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