Metal-Refining Furnace Operators and Tenders Salary Guide 2025: $54,430 Median, -2.3% Job Decline
Metal-refining furnace operators and tenders earn a national median salary of $54,430 per year, according to May 2023 BLS data. The typical range runs from $39,200 at the 10th percentile to $74,470 at the 90th, with a mean wage of $55,490 (about $26 an hour). This occupation employs about 16,780 people across the U.S., but the job count is expected to shrink by 2.3% from 2024 to 2034, creating roughly 2,000 openings per year mostly from workers leaving the field.
How much Metal-Refining Furnace Operators and Tenders earn
The median annual wage for metal-refining furnace operators and tenders is $54,430, meaning half earn more and half less. Average pay ($55,490) and hourly rates ($26.68) are similar. The lowest-paid 10% make about $39,200, while top earners can reach over $74,470.
- National median: $54,430 per year
- Mean wage: $55,490 ($26.68/hour)
- Typical range (10th–90th percentile): $39,200 – $74,470
- Top industries: primary metal manufacturing, foundries
Pay by state
State-level wages vary significantly. Minnesota tops the list with average annual pay of $75,880, followed by New Jersey ($75,020), New York ($66,440), Oregon ($64,410), and Washington ($62,850). At the lower end, South Carolina averages $44,160, Arkansas $39,920, and Mississippi $39,610. Your paycheck can depend heavily on where you work.
How to become Metal-Refining Furnace Operators and Tender
Most workers enter this role with a high school diploma or equivalent. On-the-job training is typical, lasting several months to a year. Some employers prefer candidates with vocational school coursework in metallurgy or industrial technology. No state license is required, but voluntary certifications (e.g., from the American Foundry Society) can improve prospects. Physical stamina and comfort working near high heat are essential.
- 1. Earn a high school diploma or GED.
- 2. Apply for entry-level positions at metal manufacturing or foundry companies.
- 3. Complete employer-provided on-the-job training (typically 6–12 months).
- 4. Consider a vocational certificate in metallurgy or machine operation.
- 5. Gain experience to advance to higher-paying roles or supervisory positions.
Job outlook
Employment for metal-refining furnace operators and tenders is projected to decline 2.3% from 2024 to 2034, losing between 300 and 500 jobs. Automation and overseas competition reduce demand. Still, about 2,000 annual openings are expected as experienced workers retire or change careers. Job seekers should focus on regions with strong manufacturing bases, like the Midwest and Northeast, where higher pay also concentrates.
Frequently asked questions
What is the starting salary for a metal-refining furnace operator?
Entry-level workers earn around $39,200 annually (10th percentile). Some start lower but can reach the median $54,430 after a few years.
Do metal-refining furnace operators need a degree?
No, a high school diploma is typically enough. On-the-job training is the main path. Optional vocational training can help.
Which state pays metal-refining furnace operators the most?
Minnesota pays the highest average, at $75,880 per year. New Jersey, New York, Oregon, and Washington also pay above $62,000.
Is the job market for metal-refining furnace operators growing?
No, BLS projects a 2.3% decline from 2024 to 2034. However, about 2,000 openings per year still exist due to replacement needs.
What does a metal-refining furnace operator do?
They operate or tend furnaces that melt, refine, or cast metals like iron, steel, or aluminum. Tasks include monitoring temperature, adding materials, tapping metal, and cleaning equipment.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Metal-Refining Furnace Operators and Tenders data.