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Refractory Inspection Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tundish Operator

Mobile, AL · On-site

$17.50 - $23/hr

At SSAB, the Tundish Yard Operator is responsible for the inspection, repair, or replacement of a tundish refractory. This role operates cranes and mobile equipment, maintains a clean and safe work ...

Provide field inspections of all ovens refractory components including but not limited: * Crown * Chamber * Including carbon level * Sole Flue * Uptakes * Lintel refractory * Jamb refractory * Push ...

Provide field inspections of all ovens refractory components including but not limited: * Crown * Chamber * Including carbon level * Sole Flue * Uptakes * Lintel refractory * Jamb refractory * Push ...

... refractory products at HarbisonWalker International. This role is responsible for performing quality assurance functions including, but not limited to the inspection of incoming raw materials and in ...

As business needs require, the technician will also assist with refractory installation and repair ... Prepare molds for production, including cleaning, inspection, and minor repairs * Assist with ...

Coordinate and manage refractory material inventory dedicated to CMC Steel * Monitor stock levels ... Ensure proper receiving, inspection, labeling, and storage of materials at site * Resolve delivery ...

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Refractory Inspection information

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$27K

$83.5K

$140K

How much do refractory inspection jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for refractory inspection in the United States is $83,489.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,000.00 and $112,000.00 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 cities are hiring for Refractory Inspection jobs? Cities with the most Refractory Inspection job openings:
What states have the most Refractory Inspection jobs? States with the most job openings for Refractory Inspection jobs include:
Infographic showing various Refractory Inspection job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,489 per year, or $40.1 per hour.
Refractory Ladle Wall Operator, BRS

Refractory Ladle Wall Operator, BRS

Big River Steel LLC

Osceola, IA

Other

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

U. S. Steel is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace culture and celebrate the diversity of our employees.
**Digital assessment test is required to be completed within 14 days of submitting application. 
Objective of the Job:
Ensure policies, procedures, and all activities are carried out to support BRS goals and objectives at the Ladle Wall on their respective crew assignments.
Duties and Responsibilities:
1) Ensure Safety, Environmental, Quality requirements and "where applicable" ResponsibleSteel requirements are followed.
2) Capable of safely and efficiently operating a pendant jib crane and a forklift.
3) Ensure good housekeeping practices are carried out at the wall and surrounding areas.
4) Capable of following a work instruction to safely and efficiently inspect and replace refractories in hot ladles so they can be sent to the EAF and safely used as tappers.
5) Support other areas in Refractory and the Shop as needed to strengthen BRS profitability and continual improvement.
6) Assist maintenance with any repairs in the ladle wall area.
Qualifications:
1) Quality, detail, and safety oriented; mechanically inclined and self-motivated.
2) Good insight into team dynamics with strong verbal communication skills.
3) Ability to work without direct supervision.
4) High School diploma or equivalent; college degree a plus.
5) Minimum of 1 year experience in a heavy manufacturing environment.
6) Previous related experience preferred.
Working Conditions and Physical Requirements:
Environment is typical for a steel mill refractory area, with extreme temperatures, high noise levels, and dusty areas. Physically demanding work and the ability to routinely lift and move heavy objects in this environment will be required during the shift. Typical shifts are 4 on 4 off 12 hours, which rotate from days to nights. This results in working some weekends, holidays, and overtime.
Supervisory Responsibility:
This position does not supervise others.,

Since 1901, U. S. Steel has been a recognized leader in steel production. Today, as the first North American steel company to have declared a 2050 net-zero greenhouse gas emissions goal, we remain as innovative as ever, leading transformation across our industry while continuing to make products for everyday life - from industries as far ranging as automotive, construction, containers and packaging, appliances, and energy.
We show pride in our communities with community partnerships, corporate charitable contributions, company-sponsored employee volunteer initiatives, leadership training, and much more. And of course, we have a steadfast commitment to safety first in our workplaces and respect for our employees, who are United by Steel.
We are honored to have earned accolades and awards from well-regarded organizations, including the following:

  • Newsweek's Top 100 Most Loved Workplaces 2021, '22, '23
  • Human Rights Campaign Foundation's Equality 100 Award 2020, '21,'22, '23
  • Disability:IN's Best Places to Work for Disability Inclusion 2021, '22, '23
  • Ethisphere's World's Most Ethical Companies 2022, '23
  • Military Times' Best for Vets: Employers 2023
  • Mansfield Certification for progressing Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion in Legal Department: 2023

Conducting business with integrity and with the highest ethical values has underpinned U. S. Steel's success for over 100 years, and it remains critical to our company's success in the future. U. S. Steel is an Equal Opportunity Employer. It is our policy to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) according to job qualifications without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, age, genetics, sexual orientation, sex, gender identity, disability status or status as a protected Veteran or any other legally protected group status. (California residents may visit www.ussteel.com/CANotice regarding collection of personal information and U. S. Steel's privacy practices.)


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