Metal-Refining Furnace Operators and Tenders Salary in Kentucky (2025)
✓ Sourced directly from BLS OES · Checked for accuracy at every rebuild · First published: 2026-08-25 · Last updated: 2026-10-25
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Overview
The median wage for metal-refining furnace operators and tenders in Kentucky is $59,040 per year (gross, before tax) — 8.5% above the US national median of $54,430 for this occupation. Figures are from BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2025). Around 810 people work in this occupation in Kentucky. Negotiating an offer in Kentucky? A good salary negotiation guide helps you make the case for the upper percentiles.
Kentucky Salary Percentiles
| Percentile | Annual (gross) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 10th | $44,670 | Entry level / lowest decile |
| 25th | $49,220 | Early career |
| 50th (median) | $59,040 | Typical pay |
| 75th | $63,360 | Experienced |
| 90th | $67,440 | Senior / highest decile |
Career Essentials
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Start $1 Trial →How Kentucky Compares
| State | Median salary | vs national |
|---|---|---|
| Minnesota | $75,880 | +39.4% |
| New Jersey | $75,020 | +37.8% |
| New York | $66,440 | +22.1% |
| Oregon | $64,410 | +18.3% |
| Washington | $62,850 | +15.5% |
| North Carolina | $60,780 | +11.7% |
| Utah | $60,510 | +11.2% |
| Arizona | $59,830 | +9.9% |
| Kentucky | $59,040 | +8.5% |
| Massachusetts | $58,480 | +7.4% |
All states for metal-refining furnace operators and tenders →
Recommended Gear & Prep
Interviewing in Kentucky? Interview prep books cover the common question sets.
All salaries in Kentucky · UK data for this occupation
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for a metal-refining furnace operators and tenders in Kentucky?
The median salary in Kentucky is $59,040 per year (gross, before tax), based on BLS OES May 2025 data. The mean is $56,790.
How does Kentucky pay compare to the US national average?
Kentucky is 8.5% above the US national median of $54,430 for this occupation.
Which US state pays metal-refining furnace operators and tenders the most?
Minnesota has the highest median pay for this occupation at $75,880 per year. See the state comparison table above for more.
Data: BLS OES, May 2025 · Page built 2026-10-25