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

SOC Code: 51-9051

Furnace, Kiln, Oven, Drier, and Kettle Operators and Tenderss monitor equipment operation, gauges, and panel lights to detect deviations from standards. This career typically requires moderate-term on-the-job training (months to 1 year). With an AI-proof score of 78.3/100, this role has high resilience to automation. Key skills include Operations Monitoring, Operations Monitoring, Operation and Control.

AI-Proof Score: 78.3High
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Median Salary

$47,010

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Job Growth

3.0%

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Training Time

Moderate-term on-the-job training (months to 1 year)

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Job Zone

Zone 2 / 5

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Training Cost

~$5,000

Key Skills

  • Operations Monitoring
  • Operation and Control
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Critical Thinking
  • Speaking
  • Active Listening
  • Monitoring

Common Tasks

  • Monitor equipment operation, gauges, and panel lights to detect deviations from standards.
  • Confer with supervisors or other equipment operators to report equipment malfunctions or to resolve production problems.
  • Press and adjust controls to activate, set, and regulate equipment according to specifications.
  • Record gauge readings, test results, and shift production in log books.
  • Read and interpret work orders and instructions to determine work assignments, process specifications, and production schedules.

Why AI-Proof?

  • Requires hands-on physical presence and dexterity
  • Demands human empathy, judgment, and trust
  • Operates in unpredictable, variable environments
  • Social and regulatory barriers to full automation