Furnace, Kiln, Oven, Drier, and Kettle Operators and Tenders

O*NET 51-9051.00 · SOC 51-9051

Projected Growth
+2.6%
2025–2035
Median Salary
$48k
BLS OEWS, May 2025
Annual Openings
2k
positions/year
Education Level
Zone 2
Some preparation needed (high school or short training)

Education & How to Get In

🎓
Job Zone 2
Some preparation needed (high school or short training)

Furnace, Kiln, Oven, Drier, and Kettle Operators and Tenders roles typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, with most training happening on the job. This makes it one of the more accessible career paths — you can often start working while earning certifications or completing short-term training programs.

Get Started Learning

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Work Environment

Primary Setting

Hands-on — labs, workshops, or field sites

Work Style

Mixed — alternates between solo focused work and collaboration

Personality Fit (RIASEC)

Realistic (Doers)6.8
Conventional (Organizers)4.4
Investigative (Thinkers)2.1
Social (Helpers)1.3
Enterprising (Persuaders)1.2
Artistic (Creators)1.0

Who Thrives as Furnace?

Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering — personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.

ISTPThe CraftspersonISTJThe InspectorESTJThe ExecutiveESTPThe Dynamo

Not sure which you are? Take the free 5-minute quiz →

See Open Furnace, Kiln, Oven, Drier, and Kettle Operators and Tenders Roles

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Is Furnace, Kiln, Oven, Drier, and Kettle Operators and Tenders right for you?

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