Heat Treaters

Heat treaters earn hourly wages, with those working second and third shifts often earning higher wages than first-shift workers. Overtime rates are paid to those who work longer than an eight-hour shift. Heat treating equipment setters, operators, and tenders earned median hourly wages of $18.04 ($37,520 a year for full-time work) in May 2018, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Hourly wages ranged from less than $12.30 (or $25,580 annually) to more than $26.61 (or $55,340 annually). Many workers belong to unions, and their pay is generally higher than nonunion shops. Most heat treaters receive paid holidays, sick days, and vacations; health insurance; and retirement plans. Some employers also pay for uniforms and safety shoes.