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Refractory Inspection Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Refractory Operator

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$16.75 - $22/hr

Ensure equipment inspection reports are filled out each shift * Perform minor/routine maintenance or repairs as needed without the assistance of maintenance personnel * Responsible for continuous ...

Refractory Operator

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$16.75 - $22/hr

Ensure equipment inspection reports are filled out each shift * Perform minor/routine maintenance or repairs as needed without the assistance of maintenance personnel * Responsible for continuous ...

Refractory Operator

Martinsburg, WV · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Ensure equipment inspection reports are filled out each shift * Perform minor/routine maintenance or repairs as needed without the assistance of maintenance personnel * Responsible for continuous ...

Install, service, and maintain refractory products at customer sites and manufacturing facilities * Perform preventive maintenance on industrial equipment, including inspections, lubrication, and ...

Install, service, and maintain refractory products at customer sites and manufacturing facilities * Perform preventive maintenance on industrial equipment, including inspections, lubrication, and ...

Refractory Operator

Martinsburg, WV · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Ensure equipment inspection reports are filled out each shift * Perform minor/routine maintenance or repairs as needed without the assistance of maintenance personnel * Responsible for continuous ...

Materials will include both refractory and sheet metal. Identify and report any non-conformances or deviations from quality standards to the appropriate personnel. Conduct regular inspections of ...

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Refractory Inspection information

See salary details

$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.
Special Workforce Application Technician II

Special Workforce Application Technician II

HarbisonWalker International

Cincinnati, OH • On-site

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago


HarbisonWalker International rating

9.4

Company rating: 9.4 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

HWI has a fantastic opportunity to join our Value Added Services Team as a Special Workforce Application Technician II.

Summary

The Special Workforce Application Technician II uses their specialized knowledge of HarbisonWalker Internationals products to support refractory installation field trials and provide technical refractory advise to customers. The Special Workforce Application Technician II educates customers and peers on the proper installation techniques for HarbisonWalker Internationals products along with the proper operation and maintenance of installation equipment.


Responsibilities

  • Utilizing technical and installation expertise to educate customer(s) on the proper installation methods for HarbisonWalker Internationals products; assisting customer(s) with all types of refractory installation methods, including gunite, pouring, ramming, pumping, ceramic fiber and firebrick installation; utilizing technical expertise to educate customer(s) and peers on the operation and maintenance of installation equipment
  • Performing in service inspections at customer(s) site to collect analytical data and help with predictive data solutions
  • Completing internal and external reports on activities, consumption and refractory performance
  • Collecting operational data for analysis to determine the correct quality of refractory products
  • Observing trials from installation through postmortem to prevent untimely removal of installed refractory materials
  • Observing and promoting safety and 5'S standards; complying with established facility safety policies and procedures, and other regulations as applicable; maintaining a safe and clean working environment


Requirements

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Requires computer operation skills including, proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
  • Ability to safely use brick saw and bricklaying equipment to lay brick
  • Requires working knowledge of refractory lined units
  • Ability to operate a jib crane and ensure the rigging of the load is correct
  • Ability to safely operate a forklift
  • Ability to safely operate various hand and electrical tools
  • Ability to read, understand and work in conformity with work orders, as directed
  • Ability to detect and correct unsafe or hazardous conditions of equipment and work environment
  • Organized individual with emphasis on quality and the ability to meet deadlines
  • This position requires applicant to travel to customer sites.  Must posses appropriate valid documentation to support travel.
  • The Special Workforce Application Technician requires two (2) - four (4) years of refractory installation and product-based knowledge and a specialized knowledge of HarbisonWalker Internationals product portfolio.


Physical and Environmental Requirements

  • Physical Activity:  Requires more than 2/3 of the time standing, speaking or hearing; 1/3 to 2/3 of the time walking, using hands and fingers or reaching with arms and hands; less than 1/3 of the time sitting, climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling or smelling.
  • Lifting:  Requires lifting up to 50 pounds more than 2/3 of the time and up to 100 pounds less than 1/3 of the time.
  • Vision:  Requires accurate distance and peripheral vision and depth perception, including the ability to adjust focus.
  • Environment:  Requires 1/3 to 2/3 of the time being exposed to fumes, airborne particles, vibrations or extreme heat; less than 1/3 of the time in an office setting, in high places, at risk of electrical shock or radiation, exposed to outdoor weather conditions, toxic or caustic chemicals, extreme cold, or working near explosives.
  • Noise:  Requires working in very loud conditions (over 85 decibels).