Metal-Refining Furnace Operators and Tenders in Kentucky
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | Kentucky | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $50,100 | $55,770 | -10.2% vs US |
| State Rank | #21 of 39 states | ||
| Employment | 690 jobs | 20,330 jobs | 3.4% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in Kentucky
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $38,170 | $18.35 |
| 25th Percentile | $45,550 | $21.90 |
| Median | $50,100 | $24.09 |
| 75th Percentile | $63,600 | $30.58 |
| 90th Percentile | $69,390 | $33.36 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Metal-Refining Furnace Operators and Tenders in Kentucky in 2026?
With a median salary of $50,100 in Kentucky and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +18.3%, metal-refining furnace operators and tenders are still in strong and growing demand.
How can metal-refining furnace operators and tenders increase their salary in Kentucky?
Metal-Refining Furnace Operators and Tenders in Kentucky can increase earnings by targeting higher-paying industries which tend to offer compensation well above the state median. Additionally, relocating to a higher-paying state could offer a significant income boost: Kentucky currently ranks #21 out of 39 states for this occupation. Pursuing advanced credentials, specializations, or roles with greater responsibility are proven ways to move toward the 75th or 90th percentile of earners.
Which industries pay the most for Metal-Refining Furnace Operators and Tenders in Kentucky?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Metal Ore Mining | $70,440 |
| Mining (except Oil and Gas) | $70,440 |
| Alumina and Aluminum Production and Processing | $63,390 |
How are Metal-Refining Furnace Operators and Tenders paid in Kentucky compared to the national average?
The median salary for Metal-Refining Furnace Operators and Tenders in Kentucky is $50,100, which is 10.2% below the national median of $55,770.