How much does a Furnace Operator make?
A Furnace Operator plays a key role in many industries, ensuring that furnaces run smoothly and safely. This job involves monitoring temperatures, controlling the flow of materials, and maintaining equipment. The average yearly salary for a Furnace Operator is around $43,436. This salary can vary based on experience, location, and the specific industry.
Furnace Operators can expect to earn more as they gain experience. Entry-level positions may start at around $33,000 per year. With a few years of experience, salaries can rise to around $38,000 to $40,000. Those with more experience, often over five years, can earn between $46,000 and $50,000 annually. The highest earners in this field can make over $62,000 per year. This range shows that there are good opportunities for growth and salary increases with time and skill development.
What are the highest paying cities for a Furnace Operator?

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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $48,006
In Phoenix, working as a furnace operator offers a stable environment with good pay. Companies like Freeport-McMoRan and Raytheon Technologies provide opportunities. The sunny climate makes for pleasant working conditions.
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Kansas City, MO
Average Salary: $47,156
Kansas City has a strong manufacturing sector, making it a great place for furnace operators. Companies like General Motors and Cerner Corporation offer solid career paths. The city's midwestern charm adds to the overall experience.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $45,797
Portland provides a unique blend of urban and natural environments. Companies like Intel and Nike offer good opportunities. The city's focus on sustainability aligns well with manufacturing roles.
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Indianapolis, IN
Average Salary: $43,855
Indianapolis is known for its automotive industry, offering many job opportunities. Companies like Cummins and Eli Lilly provide stable careers. The city's friendly atmosphere makes it a great place to work.
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Cincinnati, OH
Average Salary: $41,769
Cincinnati has a rich industrial history, making it ideal for furnace operators. Companies like Procter & Gamble and Kroger offer good prospects. The city's vibrant culture enhances the work experience.
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Spokane, WA
Average Salary: $40,695
Spokane offers a mix of urban and natural settings. Companies like Washington Group International and Albertsons provide good opportunities. The city's clean air and outdoor activities make it a desirable place to live and work.
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Grand Rapids, MI
Average Salary: $39,427
Grand Rapids is a hub for manufacturing, offering many job opportunities. Companies like Amway and Steelcase provide solid careers. The city's rich cultural scene adds to the overall experience.
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Tulsa, OK
Average Salary: $38,051
Tulsa has a strong energy sector, offering good opportunities for furnace operators. Companies like ONEOK and Phillips 66 provide stable careers. The city's affordable cost of living is a big plus.
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Cleveland, OH
Average Salary: $37,760
Cleveland offers a mix of industrial and cultural opportunities. Companies like Sherwin-Williams and KeyCorp provide good prospects. The city's revitalization efforts make it an exciting place to work.
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Oklahoma City, OK
Average Salary: $34,868
Oklahoma City has a growing economy, offering many job opportunities. Companies like Devon Energy and Love's Travel Stops provide good prospects. The city's affordable living and friendly community make it a great place to work.
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What are the best companies a Furnace Operator can work for?

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ThermTech - Heat Treating Specialists
Average Salary: $52,505
ThermTech - Heat Treating Specialists offers Furnace Operator jobs with a focus on heat treating metals. They operate in various locations, including Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Michigan. Their Furnace Operators work in state-of-the-art facilities, ensuring high-quality heat treatment processes.
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Paulo
Average Salary: $46,875
Paulo provides Furnace Operator positions with a strong emphasis on precision and quality. They have facilities in California, Texas, and Illinois. At Paulo, Furnace Operators play a key role in the production of high-performance materials.
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Aerotek
Average Salary: $46,114
Aerotek offers Furnace Operator jobs with a focus on manufacturing and production. They have locations across the United States, including New York, Florida, and Georgia. Their Furnace Operators are essential in maintaining the smooth operation of production lines.
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Howmet Aerospace
Average Salary: $46,090
Howmet Aerospace provides Furnace Operator jobs with a focus on aerospace manufacturing. They operate in several states, including Pennsylvania, Ohio, and North Carolina. Furnace Operators at Howmet Aerospace work in cutting-edge facilities to produce high-quality aerospace components.
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Parker Trutec
Average Salary: $45,376
Parker Trutec offers Furnace Operator jobs with a focus on precision manufacturing. They have locations in Ohio, Indiana, and Michigan. Their Furnace Operators are vital in ensuring the accuracy and quality of manufactured parts.
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Bodycote
Average Salary: $44,577
Bodycote provides Furnace Operator jobs with a focus on heat treatment and metal finishing. They operate in various locations, including Pennsylvania, Ohio, and New York. Furnace Operators at Bodycote work in advanced facilities to deliver high-quality heat treatment services.
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Collins Aerospace
Average Salary: $42,681
Collins Aerospace offers Furnace Operator jobs with a focus on aerospace manufacturing. They have facilities in several states, including California, Texas, and Florida. Their Furnace Operators are essential in producing high-performance aerospace components.
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THERMAL SPECIALTIES
Average Salary: $34,455
THERMAL SPECIALTIES provides Furnace Operator jobs with a focus on heat treatment and metal finishing. They operate in various locations, including Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Michigan. Their Furnace Operators work in state-of-the-art facilities to deliver high-quality heat treatment services.
How to earn more as a Furnace Operator?
A Furnace Operator can take several steps to increase their earnings. One key factor is gaining more experience. Experienced operators often earn more due to their skills and knowledge. Another way to earn more is by obtaining additional certifications. Certifications in areas like safety and efficiency can make an operator more valuable. Working in industries that pay higher wages can also increase earnings. Some industries, like aerospace or pharmaceuticals, often pay more than others. Seeking promotions within a company can lead to higher pay. Finally, negotiating salary increases during performance reviews can help secure a higher wage.
Operators can also look for opportunities to work overtime. Overtime pay can significantly boost income. Another option is to work in multiple shifts if possible. This can increase the total number of hours worked and, therefore, the total earnings. Operators should also consider relocating to areas with higher wages. Sometimes, moving to a different region can lead to higher pay. Networking with other professionals can open up higher-paying job opportunities. Lastly, staying updated with the latest technology and methods can make an operator more efficient and valuable.
Here are some factors to consider for earning more as a Furnace Operator:
- Gain more experience
- Obtain additional certifications
- Work in higher-paying industries
- Seek promotions within the company
- Negotiate salary increases



