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How to become metal-refining furnace operators and tenderseducation, training, experience and the steps to enter

United States Manufacturing & Repair Confidence ★★★★★

Median annual pay
$54,430
25th–75th pct. $46,080–$62,810
Top pay (est.)
$96,800
Top 10% $74,470
Pay in 5 years
$62,300est.
2031
Pay in 10 years
$71,400est.
$61,400–$82,800
Outlook score
41/100
★★☆☆☆ Below average
AI replacement risk
38%
Low
Job growth (10 yr)
−2.9%
1,400 openings / yr

How to become metal-refining furnace operators and tenders

Typical education
High school diploma or equivalent
BLS
Related experience
None
On-the-job training
Moderate-term on-the-job training

A step-by-step guide for this occupation is being prepared. The education, training and experience data above show the typical path.

Skills, education and requirements for Metal-Refining Furnace Operators and Tenders

Key skills

Operations Monitoring
3.9
Operation and Control
3.8
Monitoring
3.1
Quality Control Analysis
3.1
Active Listening
3.0
Critical Thinking
3.0
Complex Problem Solving
2.9
Equipment Maintenance
2.9

O*NET skill level ratings (0–7).

Key knowledge areas

Production and Processing
4.1
Mechanical
3.9
Administration and Management
3.7
Education and Training
3.5
Mathematics
3.1
Chemistry
2.9
Engineering and Technology
2.9
Public Safety and Security
2.8

What the work involves

Handling and Moving ObjectsPerforming General Physical ActivitiesMonitoring Processes, Materials, or SurroundingsMaking Decisions and Solving ProblemsInspecting Equipment, Structures, or MaterialsCommunicating with Supervisors, Peers, or SubordinatesIdentifying Objects, Actions, and EventsGetting Information

Important abilities

Control PrecisionMultilimb CoordinationReaction TimeTrunk StrengthManual DexterityAuditory Attention

Education of workers

Training before entry

Up to 1 month
24%
1–3 months
22%
6–12 months
19%
Over 10 years
14%
2–4 years
14%
3–6 months
7%

Related work experience

None
33%
3–6 months
19%
6–12 months
15%
Over 10 years
14%
Up to 1 month
12%
1–2 years
3%
1–3 months
2%
2–4 years
2%

Job Zone 2 — some preparation needed (O*NET)

Difficulty of entry: ★★☆☆☆ Fairly easy (from education, training, experience and Job Zone)

Career path and how to earn more as metal-refining furnace operators and tenders

Career-path guidance is being prepared. Pay by percentile is shown in the Pay section.

Pay and employment figures are national statistics. Projected pay, outlook scores and AI replacement risk are estimates from the Shigoto Zukan model, not guarantees. To request a correction, use the contact form. How to read the data
Sources: BLS OEWS May 2025; BLS Employment Projections 2025–35; O*NET 31.0 Database by USDOL/ETA (CC BY 4.0), modified by Shigoto Zukan. Pay ranges, projections and scores are Shigoto Zukan estimates.