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Metal Refinery Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sheet Metal Fabricator

Coxsackie, NY

$20 - $27/hr

... refine, grind, or drill metal in coherence with machine drawings and customer specifications. Who are we? Founded in 1849, Ducommun is the oldest company in California. Starting as a hardware supply ...

The Doe Run Company is seeking a Refinery Operator to form and cast lead, make oxide, and move ... Dedicated to environmentally responsible mineral and metal production, Doe Run operates the ...

... refine, grind, or drill metal in coherence with machine drawings and customer specifications. Who are we? Founded in 1849, Ducommun is the oldest company in California. Starting as a hardware supply ...

Sheet Metal Fabricator

Coxsackie, NY · On-site

$18 - $19.50/hr

... refine, grind, or drill metal in coherence with machine drawings and customer specifications. Who are we? Founded in 1849, Ducommun is the oldest company in California. Starting as a hardware supply ...

Sheet Metal Fabricator

Coxsackie, NY · On-site

$18 - $19.50/hr

... refine, grind, or drill metal in coherence with machine drawings and customer specifications. Who are we? Founded in 1849, Ducommun is the oldest company in California. Starting as a hardware supply ...

Sheet Metal Fabricator

Coxsackie, NY · On-site

$18 - $19.50/hr

... refine, grind, or drill metal in coherence with machine drawings and customer specifications. Who are we? Founded in 1849, Ducommun is the oldest company in California. Starting as a hardware supply ...

Metal Finisher

Philadelphia, PA

$18 - $22.25/hr

Apply and refine finishes using chemical patinas, hand techniques, and mechanical tools * Develop ... Experience or a real interest in metal finishing, patina work, sculpture, fabrication, or studio ...

Aerospace Sheet Metal Fabrication Technician Compensation: $30-$50/hr Level: 3+ years (mid-level to ... Work directly with engineering to refine fabrication methods and improve manufacturability

Aerospace Sheet Metal Fabrication Technician Compensation: $30-$50/hr Level: 3+ years (mid-level to ... Work directly with engineering to refine fabrication methods and improve manufacturability

What you'll do as a Metal Fabricator: * Operate and assist with various fabrication machines ... refined crafts. That is why we are so excited to roll up our sleeves and match the right people ...

Sheet Metal Mechanic

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$23 - $35/hr

The role offers the opportunity to work with a wide range of modern fabrication equipment, develop and refine technical skills, and contribute directly to the creation of high-quality sheet metal ...

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Metal Refinery information

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$12

$35

$72

How much do metal refinery jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for metal refinery in the United States is $36.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $54.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Metal Refinery Worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Metal Refinery Worker, you need a solid understanding of metallurgy, safety protocols, and equipment operation, often supported by a high school diploma or vocational training. Familiarity with smelting furnaces, filtration systems, and safety monitoring devices is commonly required, along with certifications in hazardous materials handling. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to follow strict procedures are vital soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure efficient, safe, and high-quality metal processing in an environment with significant physical and safety demands.

Is it hard to get into a refinery?

Getting a job as a metal refinery worker can be competitive and often requires relevant experience, safety training, and sometimes certifications such as OSHA. Entry-level positions may be available, but higher-skilled roles typically demand technical knowledge and adherence to strict safety protocols.

What is the difference between Metal Refinery vs Metal Smelter?

AspectMetal RefineryMetal Smelter
Primary FocusPurifying and refining metals to high purity levelsExtracting metals from ore through smelting processes
Work EnvironmentRefining plants, chemical processing facilitiesSmelting furnaces, metal extraction sites
CertificationsChemical handling, safety certificationsFurnace operation, safety certifications
Industry UsageMetal production, manufacturingOre processing, metal extraction

Metal Refinery and Metal Smelter roles are closely related but differ mainly in focus. Refiners concentrate on purifying metals, while smelters extract metals from ore. Both roles require safety and chemical handling certifications and operate in industrial environments. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path in the metal industry.

How to become a metal refinery operator?

To become a metal refinery operator, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant training or experience in metal processing or manufacturing. On-the-job training is common, and familiarity with safety protocols, machinery, and chemical handling is essential; some positions may require certifications in hazardous materials or industrial safety.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in a metal refinery, and how can they be managed?

Professionals in a metal refinery often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict safety protocols, operating complex machinery, and managing exposure to high temperatures and hazardous materials. Effective communication and teamwork are essential for ensuring safe workflows and quick response to issues. Many refineries provide thorough training and enforce regular safety drills to minimize risks. Staying updated on best practices and adhering to company guidelines help professionals navigate these challenges and contribute to a safe, productive environment.

How much does a metal refiner make?

A metal refiner's average annual salary ranges from $40,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the refining process. Skilled refiners with certifications and experience in operating specialized equipment can earn higher wages, often supplemented by overtime or shift differentials.

What is a metal refinery?

A metal refinery is a facility where raw metals, often in the form of ore or scrap, are processed and purified to produce high-quality, usable metal products. The refining process typically involves removing impurities through chemical, thermal, or electrolytic methods, depending on the type of metal being processed. Metal refineries play a crucial role in the supply chain by providing industries with pure metals used in manufacturing, construction, electronics, and other sectors. Safety, environmental regulations, and efficiency are important considerations in refinery operations.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

In the metal refinery industry, high-paying roles such as refinery managers, senior engineers, or specialized consultants can earn around $2,000 per day, especially with extensive experience, certifications, and working in high-demand environments. These positions often require advanced technical skills, safety training, and leadership responsibilities.
More about Metal Refinery jobs
What cities are hiring for Metal Refinery jobs? Cities with the most Metal Refinery job openings:
What states have the most Metal Refinery jobs? States with the most job openings for Metal Refinery jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Metal Refinery jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Metal Refinery jobs are:
Infographic showing various Metal Refinery job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,874 per year, or $36 per hour.
Sheet Metal Fabricator

Sheet Metal Fabricator

Ducommun

Coxsackie, NY

$20 - $27/hr

Other

Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Ducommun rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 32 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

47th of 60 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Sheet Metal Fabricator

Sheet Metal Fabricators may set-up and operate various machines, hand tools, and pneumatic tools which may heat, bend, form, press, stretch, shrink, straighten, notch, punch, roll, cut, refine, grind, or drill metal in coherence with machine drawings and customer specifications.

Who are we?
Founded in 1849, Ducommun is the oldest company in California. Starting as a hardware supply store during the California Gold Rush and eventually assisted in the birth of the aerospace industry in Southern California by providing aircraft aluminum to early aerospace pioneers like Lindbergh, Douglas and Lockheed. 

Today Ducommun is a global provider of innovative manufacturing solutions for customers in the aerospace, defense and industrial markets. We specialize in electronic and structural systems, producing complex products and components for commercial aircraft platforms, mission-critical military and space programs, and sophisticated industrial applications. 

Our Facility in Coxsackie, NY manufactures large, complex contoured structural components and assemblies for aerospace and other applications. Our integrated processes include stretch-forming, thermal-forming, chemical processing, precision fabrication, machining, finishing processes, and integration of components into subassemblies.

Why Ducommun? 

  • Excellent company culture - as recognized by Newsweek's Top 100 Most Loved Workplaces
  • Opportunity for career growth
  • Great benefits including paid vacation and sick time, 401K match, Employee Stock Purchase Program, annual bonus plan, and tuition reimbursement

Duties & Responsibilities

  • Verifies the operations as specified in the traveler as it relates to the operation being performed (i.e., the proper material, thickness, process, etc.).
  • Understands layout and plans sequence of operations.
  • Sets-up equipment controls, timers, machinery, and dies.
  • Operates machine and machine controls.
  • Makes any necessary adjustments ensuring the quality of parts remains consistent, by refining parts for cosmetic or other customer-specified reasons.
  • Uses precision measuring tools in set-ups and quality assurance, using necessary inspection media to ensure consistent quality.
  • Understands customer specifications as they relate to the operation being performed.
  • Willing and able to work overtime as necessary.
  • Other duties as assigned.

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