How much does a Furnace Operator make?
Furnace Operators play a crucial role in many industries, and their salaries reflect the importance of their work. On average, Furnace Operators earn about $43,605 per year. This figure varies based on experience and location. The top earners in this field can make more than $66,000 a year, while those just starting out may earn closer to $32,000.
To understand these salary ranges, consider the following:
- The bottom 10% of earners make less than $32,000 a year.
- The next 20% earn between $32,000 and $38,000 annually.
- The middle 20% of Furnace Operators make between $38,000 and $44,000 each year.
- The upper 20% earn between $44,000 and $50,000.
- The top 10% of earners can make more than $56,000 a year.
What are the highest paying cities for a Furnace Operator?

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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $48,453
In Phoenix, operators manage metal and glass furnaces in large manufacturing companies. The city's climate and industrial sector offer stable job opportunities. Companies like Raytheon and Intel need skilled furnace operators.
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Kansas City, MO
Average Salary: $47,263
Kansas City provides a robust industrial environment for furnace operators. The area's major companies need skilled workers to ensure smooth operations. Employers value experience in large-scale industrial settings.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $46,042
Portland offers a dynamic job market for furnace operators. The city's focus on eco-friendly industries creates demand for skilled workers. Local companies emphasize sustainability in their operations.
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Cincinnati, OH
Average Salary: $42,723
Cincinnati boasts a strong manufacturing base that requires skilled furnace operators. The area’s industries need workers with precise control and attention to detail. Companies like Procter & Gamble offer competitive roles.
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Spokane, WA
Average Salary: $40,709
Spokane provides a growing market for furnace operators. The city's blend of manufacturing and technology sectors offers diverse opportunities. Employers seek candidates with a solid grasp of industrial processes.
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Grand Rapids, MI
Average Salary: $39,460
Grand Rapids features a thriving industrial sector with ample job opportunities for furnace operators. The city’s focus on automotive manufacturing creates a steady demand for skilled workers. Companies in the area value experience and technical skills.
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Tulsa, OK
Average Salary: $35,326
Tulsa offers a solid job market for furnace operators, particularly in the energy and manufacturing sectors. The city’s employers value efficiency and reliability. Companies in the region provide extensive training and career growth opportunities.
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Oklahoma City, OK
Average Salary: $35,000
Oklahoma City has a stable job market for furnace operators, with numerous opportunities in manufacturing and energy. The city’s industries require skilled workers who can handle high-pressure environments. Employers often prioritize candidates with experience in industrial settings.
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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 is a leader in heat treating and surface finishing services. They operate several locations across the United States, including Ohio, Texas, and Pennsylvania. The company provides diverse opportunities for Furnace Operators, emphasizing safety and precision in their operations.
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Paulo
Average Salary: $47,039
Paulo is renowned for its high-quality products in the metal treatment industry. They have facilities in Michigan and Illinois. At Paulo, Furnace Operators play a crucial role in maintaining the temperature and quality of the metal, ensuring that products meet the highest standards.
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Howmet Aerospace
Average Salary: $46,586
Howmet Aerospace, based in Ohio and California, specializes in advanced materials and technologies. Their Furnace Operators are integral in producing high-performance aerospace components. This company emphasizes innovation and quality, providing a dynamic work environment.
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Parker Trutec
Average Salary: $45,376
Parker Trutec, operating in Pennsylvania and Ohio, focuses on heat treating and finishing solutions. They offer a variety of opportunities for Furnace Operators, with a strong emphasis on precision and quality. Their facilities are equipped with modern technology to support efficient operations.
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Aerotek
Average Salary: $45,126
Aerotek, with locations in Illinois and Pennsylvania, provides staffing and consulting services for manufacturing and production roles. Their Furnace Operators work in various industries, ensuring the production processes run smoothly and safely.
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Bodycote
Average Salary: $44,797
Bodycote, present in multiple states, is a leader in heat treating and metal finishing. They offer numerous roles for Furnace Operators, who are responsible for maintaining the furnace conditions and ensuring the quality of the finished products.
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Collins Aerospace
Average Salary: $43,168
Collins Aerospace, located in Ohio, focuses on aerospace and defense technologies. They provide opportunities for Furnace Operators who are interested in working with cutting-edge materials and technology in a high-tech environment.
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Pratt & Whitney
Average Salary: $41,500
Pratt & Whitney, based in Connecticut, is known for its aircraft engines. Their Furnace Operators work in production facilities, ensuring the quality and precision of engine components through meticulous control of the furnace conditions.
How to earn more as a Furnace Operator?
A Furnace Operator can enhance their earnings through various strategies. Focusing on skill development and experience is key to advancing in this field. Seeking additional certifications and training can open doors to higher-paying positions.
Employers value operators who can handle complex systems and ensure safety. By mastering these skills, an operator can take on more responsibilities and potentially higher salaries. Networking with other professionals in the industry can lead to job opportunities with better pay.
Consider these factors to increase earnings:
- Certifications: Obtain relevant certifications to boost qualifications.
- Experience: Gain more experience to advance in the field.
- Skills: Develop expertise in furnace operations and safety.
- Networking: Build connections with industry professionals for better job opportunities.
- Continued Education: Pursue further education to learn new technologies and practices.



