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Torch Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Torch Operator

Shelbyville, IN ยท 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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Torch Cutter

Macon, GA ยท 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 ...

Torch Operator

Land O Lakes, FL ยท 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 ...

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 ...

Torch Cutter

Macon, GA ยท 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 ...

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 ...

As a Burner/Torch Operator you will play a crucial role on our production team, and be responsible for the accurate cutting of oversize or large ferrous material through use of an oxy-fuel torch to ...

As a Burner/Torch Operator you will play a crucial role on our production team, and be responsible for the accurate cutting of oversize or large ferrous material through use of an oxy-fuel torch to ...

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 ...

Cutting Torch Operator

Salina, KS ยท 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 ...

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 ...

Track Torch Operator - Beveler

Houston, TX

$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 ...

Track Torch Operator - Beveler

Houston, TX ยท 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 ...

Track Torch Operator - Night Shift

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$16.75 - $20.25/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 ...

Track Torch Operator - Night Shift

Houston, TX

$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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Torch Operator information

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$13

$18

$24

How much do torch operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 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 are torch operators?

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:
Infographic showing various Torch Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% 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 Operator

Torch Operator

United Scrap Metal Inc

Shelbyville, IN โ€ข On-site

$15/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Established in 1978, United Scrap Metal (โ€œUSMโ€) has grown from $200 and a rental truck into one of the largest full-service recyclers in the country. Today, the USM team continues to pioneer innovative, solutions-driven recycling programs through ethical and sustainable practices, which have earned them both acclaim and recognition amongst industry partners. With 700+ team members across 11 locations nationally, the companyโ€™s commitment to excellence is reflected in its award-winning history, as well as an outstanding client retention rate across thousands of customers throughout North America. Equally as important is the expansion of the teamโ€™s focus on philanthropy, sustainability, diversity and carrying out our corporate mission: making a positive impact on the lives of others. USM is proud to make a difference for its customers, partners, team members, communities and the planet as it continues to drive its expansion forward for the next forty years and beyond.

USM is looking for purpose-driven individuals who seek to utilize their unique traits and attributes to make a positive impact on the company and further our mission. Team members at United are driven to achieve results and are tenacious in the face of challenges. They are humble and intellectually curious, seeking the ability to roll up their sleeves and โ€œget their hands dirtyโ€ to solve complex problems while maintaining the motivation to develop both personally and professionally. Lastly, collaboration is vital to our business and line of work; therefore, our team members must be able to communicate and build relationships with multiple cross functional departments across the organization.

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 efficiency, while following established safety protocols. This individual directly reports to the Torch Operator Supervisor and may also receive instructions from other Operations Leaders like the Yard Supervisor, Operations Supervisor, Operations Manager or General Manager.

Summary of Responsibilities

  • Demonstrates ability to manually spread out, sort and segregate material
  • Demonstrates ability to safely use a gas-powered torch to cut material per customer specification
  • Facilitates a safe and clean work environment
  • Works quickly and efficiently to meet department and company goals while adhering to all company, safety and health policies
  • Works in various environmental conditions such as extreme heat or cold, dusty, dirty and/or wet conditions
  • Adheres to all components of the companyโ€™s lead safety program
  • Performs job with integrity while upholding ethical standards and expectations of the organization
  • Facilitates internal communication with his supervisor and peers
  • Must demonstrate competency in all aspects of the job and company objectives
  • Demonstrate understanding of company policies, rules and training
  • Other duties as assigned

Required Characteristics

  • Must possess basic reading and writing comprehension in English
  • Ability to be trained and certified to operate either a skid steer loader or crane
  • Must have the ability to perform the physical tasks of the job such as walking, standing, bending and/or sitting for extended periods of time in a confined space (equipment cabin) during the entire scheduled shift
  • Must routinely bend over to move / push / lift / sort pieces of metal weighing up to 50 lbs. each, no more than 1 ft. off the ground; must engage in a โ€œteam liftโ€ if handling pieces over 50 lbs.
  • Must be able to wear protective safety equipment such as a torch uniform, face shield, respirator, safety shoes, etc. (per OSHA regulations) weighing approximately 5 lbs. while performing the job during the entire scheduled shift
  • Must be able to hold the torch throughout the entire scheduled shift, which weighs approximately 5 lbs.
  • Able to fulfill flexible scheduling requirements as determined by the manager and / or business needs of the operation

Minimum Safety Training Requirements

  • Basic on-the-job training that satisfies the Primary Objectives of the specific position (as noted above)
  • US-SOP-01 United in Safety Manual
  • US-F11 QEH&S Policy
  • US-SOP-03 Team Member Handbook

We strive to demonstrate our Core Values in all positions at USM:

Trust โ— Commitment โ— Loyalty โ— Passion โ— Performance โ— Service โ— Performance

USM is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, marital status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. USM will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable law. USM is a Zero Impairment Workplace. USM provides reasonable accommodation to applicants with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process, please notify your Talent Acquisition contact or another member of our People Development Team. The decision on granting reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis.