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Independent Contractor Refractory Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Karyopharm Therapeutics

$225K - $270K/yr

Thorough knowledge of contracting process and terminology, language and expectations required ... Willingness to work independently in a fast-paced environment, with the ability to multi-task and ...

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Independent Contractor Refractory information

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$394

$1.1K

$2.1K

How much do independent contractor refractory jobs pay per week?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average weekly pay for independent contractor refractory in the United States is $1,089.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $721.15 and $1,211.54 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are independent contractor refractories?

Independent contractor refractories are skilled professionals or businesses that specialize in the installation, maintenance, and repair of refractory materials used to line high-temperature equipment such as furnaces, kilns, and reactors. As independent contractors, they typically work on a project basis for various clients in industries like steel, cement, glass, and petrochemicals. They are responsible for assessing refractory needs, sourcing materials, ensuring proper installation, and sometimes providing ongoing maintenance. Their expertise helps improve safety, efficiency, and longevity of thermal processing equipment.

What are some common challenges faced by independent contractor refractories and how can they be managed?

Independent contractor refractories often encounter challenges such as managing tight project deadlines, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, and coordinating with multiple stakeholders on industrial sites. Since the work involves high-temperature environments and specialized materials, staying updated on the latest installation techniques and safety protocols is essential. Building strong communication with clients and other contractors helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures smoother project execution. Additionally, investing in ongoing training and certification can help maintain a competitive edge in the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Independent Contractor Refractory, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Independent Contractor Refractory, you need in-depth knowledge of refractory materials, installation techniques, and safety standards, often acquired through technical training or experience in industrial construction. Familiarity with tools like refractory mixers, brick saws, and safety equipment, as well as certifications such as OSHA or NCCER, are typically required. Strong problem-solving, project management, and teamwork skills set top contractors apart in coordinating with clients and crews. These skills ensure durable, safe refractory installations and efficient project completion in demanding industrial environments.

What is the difference between Independent Contractor Refractory vs Refractory Technician?

AspectIndependent Contractor RefractoryRefractory Technician
CredentialsTypically requires industry experience, safety certifications, and possibly specialized refractory trainingRequires similar certifications, including safety and refractory installation/repair training
Work EnvironmentOften self-employed, working on multiple projects at different sitesEmployed by a company or contractor, working on-site at specific facilities
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by independent contractors serving industrial, mining, or power plant sectorsCommonly employed by companies in manufacturing, power generation, or construction

In summary, an Independent Contractor Refractory operates independently, managing multiple projects and clients, while a Refractory Technician is typically employed by a company, working on-site to install or repair refractory materials. Both roles require similar skills and certifications but differ mainly in employment status and work setup.

More about Independent Contractor Refractory jobs
What cities are hiring for Independent Contractor Refractory jobs? Cities with the most Independent Contractor Refractory job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Refractory jobs? The most popular types of Refractory jobs are:
What states have the most Independent Contractor Refractory jobs? States with the most job openings for Independent Contractor Refractory jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Independent Contractor Refractory jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Independent Contractor Refractory jobs are:
Independent Contractor Refractory jobs near you
Infographic showing various Independent Contractor Refractory job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 9% As Needed, 18% Part Time, and 73% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,645 per year, or $27.2 per hour.

Construction Laborer

Refractory Service, Inc.

Jackson, WI • On-site

$18/hr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Assist with brick work and masonry tending, and work with castable and sprayed concrete.

  • Install various insulation products.

  • Perform basic mig and stick welding, steel fabrication, and operate hand and power tools.

Job description

About Us
Refractory Service, Inc. (RSI) is a specialized refractory contractor with 60+ years in business. Customers include commercial boilers, power plants, ethanol plants, foundries, steel mills, heat treaters, refineries, incineration units, pollution control equipment, and other applications involving temperature exceeding 1200F.
Impact of the Role
A laborer is part of a collaborative team that works on unique and custom assignments for refractory, insulation, and occasional steel structures. All work is performed efficiently, safely, and according to specifications. This role is hands-on and nonexempt.
What the Role Does
  • Assist with brick work and masonry tending; work with castable and sprayed concrete
  • Install various insulation products
  • Perform basic mig and stick welding, as well as steel fabrication
  • Use hand tools and power tools including drills, saws, and tape measures
  • Perform various general labor and construction related tasks, including cleaning tools and equipment.
  • Drive a forklift (certification training provided)
  • Remove hazards in the work area, wear appropriate PPE, and clean up dirt, trash, and debris

What You Bring
Knowledge, Education
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Preferred: construction knowledge including reading and understanding blueprints, sketches, and layouts

Experience
  • 1-3 years of related experience; a combination of experience and education will be considered
  • Familiar with hand tools
  • Preferred: forklift operation and experience with concrete, steel, insulation, and/or carpentry

Skills, Abilities
  • Must demonstrate RSI's Core Competencies
  • Strong reading comprehension, common sense, and listening skills, to understand and follow detailed verbal and written instructions
  • Ability to effectively communicate verbally and in writing; solid team collaboration skills while also able to work independently
  • Critical thinking skills; strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to work in a safe manner; OSHA safety experience/training/awareness preferred

Physical
  • Strength and stamina, including regularly using hands to handle, or feel; regularly walk, stand, climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl
  • Must have close, distance, color, and peripheral vision; depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus
  • Must regularly lift or move up to 50 lbs. and occasionally lift or move up to 100 lbs.

Work Environment/Schedule
  • Standard production environment includes regular exposure to odors, fumes, or airborne particles, and typical noises from machinery (moderate to loud)
  • Overtime may be required, depending on the project deadline

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