1

Refractory Inspection Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Master Mechanic

Hammond, IN · On-site

$46.58/hr

Inspect equipment and refractory presses for defects such as misalignment, wear, and inadequate lubrication, and determine optimal repair methods. * Advise when immediate shutdown of equipment is ...

Refractory support activities * Read and interpret drawings, specifications, work packages, and ... Inspect completed work for compliance with project specifications. * Verify proper application of ...

Refractory support activities * Read and interpret drawings, specifications, work packages, and ... Inspect completed work for compliance with project specifications. * Verify proper application of ...

Refractory support activities * Read and interpret drawings, specifications, work packages, and ... Inspect completed work for compliance with project specifications. * Verify proper application of ...

Maintenance Electrical/Mechanical Hybrid

Gary, IN · On-site

$25.75 - $32/hr

Complete inspection reports. Requirements * Requires high school diploma or GED * Ability to ... HWI, a member of Calderys HWI is the largest supplier of refractory products and services in the ...

Maintenance Electrical/Mechanical Hybrid

Gary, IN · On-site

$25.75 - $32/hr

Complete inspection reports. Requirements * Requires high school diploma or GED * Ability to ... As a dynamic, growing global refractory leader, we offer competitive compensation, benefits ...

Fabricate steel molds, forms, and frames for castable refractory products * Read and interpret ... Quality control and inspection skills * Physical stamina and safety awareness Why choose Integrity ...

... refractory components. * Lead troubleshooting efforts and perform root cause analysis for ... Manage audits and inspections of combustion systems to maintain regulatory and internal standards.

New

COMBUSTION TECHNICIAN

Chicago, IL · On-site

$26 - $35/hr

... refractory). * Lead troubleshooting and root cause analysis for combustion-related downtime ... Manage combustion system,audits, and inspections. * Lead hazard analysis and risk assessments ...

Be Seen First

This position supports the production of high-quality custom ceramic and refractory products used ... Inspect products for visible defects and ensure they meet established quality standards. * Follow ...

Be Seen First

This position supports the production of high-quality custom ceramic and refractory products used ... Inspect products for visible defects and ensure they meet established quality standards. * Follow ...

Be Seen First

This position supports the production of high-quality custom ceramic and refractory products used ... Inspect products for visible defects and ensure they meet established quality standards. * Follow ...

Be Seen First

This position supports the production of high-quality custom ceramic and refractory products used ... Inspect products for visible defects and ensure they meet established quality standards. * Follow ...

Refractory Inspection information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$27.8K

$86K

$144.2K

How much do refractory inspection jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for refractory inspection in Chicago, IL is $86,006.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,400.00 and $115,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is refractory inspection?

Refractory inspection is the process of evaluating the condition and integrity of refractory materials used to line high-temperature equipment such as furnaces, kilns, incinerators, and reactors. Inspectors assess for wear, cracks, erosion, and other types of damage that can compromise thermal efficiency or safety. Regular inspections help prevent costly failures and unplanned downtime by identifying maintenance needs early. The process may involve visual checks, non-destructive testing methods, and sometimes removing sections of refractory for closer examination.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a refractory inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Refractory Inspector, you need a solid understanding of refractory materials, thermal processes, and inspection techniques, usually supported by technical training or certification in refractory inspection. Familiarity with inspection tools such as borescopes, ultrasonic testing equipment, and reporting systems like SAP or specialized inspection software is often required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are essential soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure accurate assessment of refractory integrity, help prevent costly failures, and maintain safe operations in industrial settings.

What are the typical challenges faced in a refractory inspection role, and how can new inspectors prepare for them?

Refractory inspectors often work in industrial environments where safety, heat, and confined spaces are significant challenges. New inspectors should be prepared for physically demanding tasks, such as climbing and prolonged standing, and must adhere strictly to safety protocols. Attention to detail is crucial, as small cracks or defects in refractory linings can lead to costly equipment failures. Building strong teamwork and communication skills is also important, since inspectors frequently collaborate with engineers, maintenance crews, and plant managers to ensure accurate reporting and effective repairs.

What is the difference between Refractory Inspection vs Refractory Technician?

AspectRefractory InspectionRefractory Technician
CertificationsOften requires inspection certifications and safety trainingTypically needs trade certifications or technical training
Work EnvironmentInspecting refractory installations, often at industrial sitesInstalling, repairing, and maintaining refractory materials
Job FocusAssessing the condition and compliance of refractory liningsApplying refractory materials and performing repairs

Refractory Inspection and Refractory Technician roles share industry settings and safety requirements. However, inspectors focus on evaluating refractory conditions, while technicians handle installation and repairs. Both roles are essential for maintaining high-temperature industrial equipment.

What are popular job titles related to Refractory Inspection jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Refractory Inspection jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Refractory Inspection jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Refractory Inspection jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Refractory Inspection job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $86,006 per year, or $41.3 per hour.

Master Mechanic

Hammond, IN • On-site

RHI Magnesita
10K+ employees

$46.58/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


RHI Magnesita rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Master Mechanic

Location: Hammond, IN

Compensation: $46.58 per hour; $1.50 shift differential for night shift.

Shift: Must be able to work any shift. (Day Shift: 6am - 6pm; Night Shift: 6pm - 6am)

 

About the Opportunity

The Master Mechanic plays a critical role in ensuring the reliability and efficiency of plant operations. This position is responsible for inspecting, installing, repairing, and maintaining a wide variety of mechanical equipment and plant infrastructure. The role also includes performing preventative maintenance, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring all equipment operates safely and efficiently to minimize production downtime.

 

What You'll Do
  • Perform advanced mechanical repairs and maintenance on plant equipment and refractory presses.
  • Receive instructions covering the scheduled emergency repair, installation and work to be done.
  • Interpret technical drawings, schematics, and equipment manuals to diagnose and resolve issues.
  • Inspect equipment and refractory presses for defects such as misalignment, wear, and inadequate lubrication, and determine optimal repair methods.
  • Advise when immediate shutdown of equipment is necessary to minimize damage or when temporarily continued operation will have no harmful effect.
  • Dismantle, repair, replace, reassemble, and adjust all types of mechanical equipment, refractory presses, and press equipment.
  • Perform preventative maintenance, lubrication, and general upkeep of all plant equipment.
  • Conduct repairs and maintenance on plant infrastructure including buildings, roads, piping, and facilities.
  • Operate tools and equipment such as drill presses, grinders, saws, welding and burning equipment, and general machine tools.
  • Uses carpenter's tools to construct and repair wood objects such as benches, platforms, handrails, and tables.
  • Execute rigging activities and operate automotive equipment as needed.
  • Perform fabrication, grinding, fitting, alignment, and assembly of mold boxes and press components.
  • Lubricate mechanical equipment according to outlined procedure or manufacturer's specifications.
  • Maintain oil supply and report same to supervision when supply is low.
  • Clean grease fittings and replace as required.
  • Change and adjust press equipment components including pads, bolts, cylinders, chargers, spray pipes, wiper bars, stop bolts, pressure wheels, springs, washers and bolts.
  • Clean motor assemblies and chassis of automotive equipment and paints when necessary.
  • Perform metal fabrication as required.
  • Maintain proper storage, identification, and organization of mechanical components and tools.
  • Complete preventative maintenance reports, inspection checklists, and document work in maintenance systems.
  • Maintain clean and safe work areas and follow all safety protocols.
  • Mentor and support Plant Mechanics in skill development and best practices.
  • Perform general labor duties and additional maintenance tasks as required.
What You Bring
  • 3 - 5 years of millwright or mechanical maintenance experience.
  • Ability to pass a written mechanical aptitude test with a minimum score of 60%.
  • Satisfactorily pass a practical hands-on welding and burning test.
  • Strong ability to read and interpret mechanical and hydraulic schematics.
  • Proven troubleshooting skills and ability to identify and resolve equipment issues efficiently.
What We Offer
  • Competitive Hourly Compensation - $46.58 per hour ($1.50 shift differential for night shift)
  • Comprehensive Benefits Package - Including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and disability coverage.
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan - With company matching to help you plan for your future.
  • Paid Time Off
  • Training & Development - Access to learning resources and career development programs.
  • Inclusive Work Environment - A culture that values diversity, safety, and collaboration.

 

About RHI Magnesita

RHI Magnesita is the leading global supplier of high-grade refractory products, systems and solutions which are critical for high-temperature processes in a wide range of industries. Serving customers around the world, RHI Magnesita has more than 20,000 employees in 65 main production sites (including raw material sites), 12 recycling facilities and more than 70 sales offices.
RHI Magnesita's team in North America helps build refractory products that solve the most extreme manufacturing challenges. From advanced lithium-ion batteries for laptops and EVs and specialized glass on smartphones and tablets, to the steel and cement that build the world around us, our high-performance bricks and linings make it possible to melt, bend, shape, and refine these materials at extreme temperatures.


With a vertically integrated value chain, RHI Magnesita has helped forge the materials that build industries and economies for almost 200 years. Refractory products are essential to the production processes for cement, steel, aluminum, and many other industrial producers in the region.

Come get fired up with our North American team!


North America | RHI Magnesita


What RHI Magnesita employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom