Standard Occupational Classification (SOC): Furnace, Kiln, Oven, Drier, and Kettle Operators and Tenders

Furnace, kiln, oven, drier, and kettle operators and tenders in healthcare are responsible for operating and maintaining equipment used in the production or processing of medical products. They may work in a variety of settings, such as medical device manufacturing plants, pharmaceutical production facilities, and research and development laboratories.

Their duties include setting up and adjusting equipment, monitoring and adjusting the temperature, pressure, and other process variables, and performing routine maintenance and repairs. They also may be responsible for ensuring that the equipment is operating safely and efficiently, and for troubleshooting and resolving problems that arise. In some cases, they may also be responsible for monitoring and maintaining inventory levels of raw materials and finished products. They may be required to have specific technical training and certifications to operate the equipment, as well as experience in the field.