Furnace, Kiln, Oven, Drier, and Kettle Operators and Tenders
What is a Furnace, Kiln, Oven, Drier, and Kettle Operators and Tenders?
Furnace, Kiln, Oven, Drier, and Kettle Operators and Tenders are skilled professionals responsible for operating and monitoring industrial equipment that heat, dry, or process materials and goods in various manufacturing settings. Their work is crucial in industries such as metal production, ceramics, food processing, and pharmaceuticals. These operators are tasked with setting up equipment, controlling heating elements, and managing process parameters to ensure that materials undergo the required treatments under specified conditions.
These operators monitor temperatures, pressure, and chemical levels in order to achieve optimal processing results. They may also perform regular maintenance on equipment to prevent malfunctions and ensure efficient operation. Safety is a key component of their roles, as they must adhere to strict guidelines to prevent accidents and exposure to hazardous materials.
Working in collaboration with other team members, Furnace, Kiln, Oven, Drier, and Kettle Operators and Tenders are essential in maintaining consistent product quality and optimizing production efficiency. Their expertise in instrumentation and control systems aids in troubleshooting and resolving issues related to the heating and processing of materials.
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.
Technology Skills
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Spreadsheet software
- Microsoft Excel
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Word processing software
- Microsoft Word
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Inventory management software
- Inventory tracking software
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Industrial control software
- Machine operation software
Tools Used
- Power saws
- Moisture meters
- Drying cabinets or ovens
- Track cranes
- Hygrometers
Knowledge
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Mechanical
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
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Production and Processing
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
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Public Safety and Security
Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
Skills
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Operations Monitoring
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
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Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
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Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
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Monitoring
Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
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Operation and Control
Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
Abilities
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Problem Sensitivity
The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.
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Control Precision
The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
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Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
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Written Comprehension
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
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Arm-Hand Steadiness
The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
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High school diploma or equivalent
or: GED, High School Equivalency Certificate
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Less than high school diploma
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Post-secondary certificate
Awarded for training completed after high school (for example, in Personnel Services, Engineering-related Technologies, Vocational Home Economics, Construction Trades, Mechanics and Repairers, Precision Production Trades)
Work Activities
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Controlling Machines and Processes
Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
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Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events
Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
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Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials
Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
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Handling and Moving Objects
Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
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Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings
Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
Detailed Work Activities
- Monitor equipment operation to ensure proper functioning.
- Adjust temperature controls of ovens or other heating equipment.
- Confer with others to resolve production problems or equipment malfunctions.
- Record operational or production data.
- Clear equipment jams.
Work Interests
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Realistic
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
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Conventional
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
$34430.0 - $63340.0
New job opportunities are less likely in the future. : Below Average
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.