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Furnace Operator/Tender Salary in the United States

How much does a Furnace Operator/Tender make in the United States?

As of September 01, 2026, the average salary for a Furnace Operator/Tender in the United States is $47,407 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $23.

However, a Furnace Operator/Tender's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:

  • Top Earners (90th percentile): $69,278
  • Majority Range (25th-75th percentile): $38,367 to $58,855
  • Entry-Level (10th percentile): $30,136
Salary Factors Salary-Boosting Skills Salary by Experience Related Job Salaries Top Paying Cities Explore Related Jobs

Key Factors That Influence Furnace Operator/Tender Salaries

A Furnace Operator/Tender's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.

How Do Furnace Operator/Tender Salaries Vary from State to State?

Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Furnace Operator/Tenders. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
  • District of Columbia: $52,489.
  • California: $52,290.
  • Massachusetts: $51,593.

Top Paying Cities for Furnace Operator/Tenders

Salaries can also vary between different cities. Major metropolitan areas or cities with a high demand for technicians often offer more competitive pay. Here are a few examples of average annual salaries in different U.S. cities:

  • San Jose: $59,795
  • San Francisco: $59,140
  • Oakland: $57,894

Furnace Operator/Tender Salary by Company Size: Startups vs. Enterprise

Furnace Operator/Tender salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $47,407. While startup companies pay approximate $47,407.

Furnace Operator/Tender Salary by Company Size

Company Size Employees Average Salary
Startup 1~50 $47,407
Growth Stage 51~500 $47,407
Established 501~5000 $47,407
Enterprise 5000+ $47,407

Furnace Operator/Tender Salary: Hourly Rate, Weekly Pay, and Monthly Pay

Understanding how a Furnace Operator/Tender's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.

Last Updated on September 01, 2026
$38,367
Average $47,407/year
$58,855
$3,197
Average $3,951/month
$4,905
$738
Average $912/week
$1,132
$18
Average $23/hour
$28
Annual Salary Monthly Pay Weekly Pay Hourly Wage
75th Percentile $58,855 $4,905 $1,132 $28
Average $47,407 $3,951 $912 $23
25th Percentile $38,367 $3,197 $738 $18

Furnace Operator/Tender Salary Growth & Career Path

Furnace Operator/Tender

Next Role

Advancement

Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Furnace Operator/Tender, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.

Next Step Role Estimate Salary Projected Raise
Extrusion Operator, Sr. $54,604 15%
Injection Molding Machine Operator II $48,516 2%
Machine Operator II $45,476 -4%
Milling Machine Operator II $52,128 10%

Most common benefits for Furnace Operator/Tender

  • Social Security
  • 401 (k)
  • Disability
  • Healthcare
  • Pension
  • Time Off (days)

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FAQ about Furnace Operator/Tender

1. Where can a Furnace Operator/Tender earn the most?

A Furnace Operator/Tender's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, a Furnace Operator/Tender earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Furnace Operator/Tender is $59,795.

2. What is the highest pay for Furnace Operator/Tender?

The highest pay for Furnace Operator/Tender is $69,278.

3. What is the lowest pay for Furnace Operator/Tender?

The lowest pay for Furnace Operator/Tender is $30,136.

4. What are the responsibilities of Furnace Operator/Tender?

Sets-up, operates, maintains, and controls furnaces to melt metal to specified temperatures. Adjusts controls to regulate the furnace and to maintain specified temperature. Requires a high school diploma or its equivalent and 0-2 years of experience in the field or in a related area. Familiar with standard concepts, practices, and procedures within a particular field. Relies on limited experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals. Performs a variety of tasks. Works under general supervision; typically reports to a supervisor or manager. A certain degree of creativity and latitude is expected.

Where Does Our Salary Data Come From?

Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.

We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)

With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.

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