1

Refractory Operator Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Craft Industrial Millwright

Kokomo, IN · On-site

$22 - $28.75/hr

Language - read and interpret the following documents: safety policies, follow all operating and ... refractory, riggings and combustion * Assists, directs, and trains the apprentice in the Millwright ...

Craft Industrial Millwright

Kokomo, IN · On-site

$22.50 - $29.25/hr

Language - read and interpret the following documents: safety policies, follow all operating and ... refractory, riggings and combustion * Assists, directs, and trains the apprentice in the Millwright ...

Communicate site operating targets and results and solicit feedback on causes for gaps relative to ... steel plants, refractory, heavy equipment fabrication, stone processing, cement plants, etc ...

Communicate site operating targets and results and solicit feedback on causes for gaps relative to ... steel plants, refractory, heavy equipment fabrication, stone processing, cement plants, etc ...

Showing results 41-46

Refractory Operator information

What is a refractory operator?

Refractory Operators are skilled workers responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing refractory materials—heat-resistant materials used to line furnaces, kilns, reactors, and other high-temperature processing equipment. Their duties include preparing surfaces, mixing and applying refractory materials, and inspecting linings for wear and damage. They play a crucial role in industries such as steel, glass, cement, and petrochemicals, where equipment must withstand extreme temperatures. Safety awareness and attention to detail are essential in this role because incorrect installation can lead to equipment failure or workplace hazards.

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

To thrive as a Refractory Operator, you need a solid understanding of materials handling, furnace operations, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or vocational training. Familiarity with industrial equipment, temperature control systems, and basic maintenance tools is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong problem-solving abilities are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills are crucial for ensuring efficient, safe, and high-quality refractory processes in demanding industrial environments.

What are the typical challenges faced by a refractory operator during furnace maintenance, and how are they addressed?

Refractory Operators often face challenges such as working in high-temperature environments, handling heavy and abrasive materials, and ensuring the proper installation and repair of refractory linings. These tasks require strict adherence to safety protocols, careful attention to detail, and frequent collaboration with maintenance and engineering teams. Operators address these challenges by using specialized protective equipment, following established procedures, and participating in regular safety and technical training to maintain efficiency and minimize downtime.

What is the difference between Refractory Operator vs Furnace Operator?

AspectRefractory OperatorFurnace Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety training, sometimes certifications in refractory installationHigh school diploma, safety training, often certifications in furnace operation
Work EnvironmentFactories, plants handling refractory materials, high-temperature areasIndustrial furnaces, metal or chemical manufacturing facilities
Industry UsageConstruction, steel, cement, glass industriesMetallurgy, chemical processing, manufacturing

Refractory Operators focus on installing, maintaining, and repairing refractory materials to withstand high temperatures, often working in construction or manufacturing environments. Furnace Operators primarily operate and monitor industrial furnaces in manufacturing settings. While both roles require safety training and similar certifications, their specific tasks and work environments differ, with Refractory Operators specializing in refractory materials and Furnace Operators managing furnace operations.

What are popular job titles related to Refractory Operator jobs in Indiana?

For Refractory Operator jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Indiana are hiring for Refractory Operator jobs?

Cities in Indiana with the most Refractory Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Refractory Operator job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution.

Craft Industrial Millwright-Kokomo,Indiana

Haynes International

Michigantown, IN • On-site

$23.50 - $30.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Haynes International rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Qualifications:
  • High School Diploma or Equivalent and Millwright journeyman's card or six (6) years' experience as an industrial/manufacturing millwright.
  • Possess a bona fide Journeyman Certificate in the Craft OR documentation substantiating at least 6 years of related experience in the Craft
  • Punctual and regular attendance
  • Passing score on math and measurements test
  • Successful completion of writing sample
  • Ability to perform the essential job functions and physical requirements (as listed below)

Skills Requirements:
  • Mathematics - add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure using whole numbers and common fractions
  • Language - read and interpret the following documents: safety policies, follow all operating and maintenance procedures, follow all emergency procedures and various manuals, write routine reports and correspondence, and use communication skills with coworkers
  • Reasoning ability - ability to apply common sense and understanding; ability to carry out detailed but uninvolved written and oral instructions; and the ability to interact with coworkers through communications and acceptance of expectations and accountability
  • Communication skills
  • Ability to train in various job functions of the operations, and read and interpret measuring devices (ruler, tape measure, micrometer, leveling devices, calculator, etc.)

Essential Physical Requirements:
  • Handle various hand tools used within an industrial maintenance environment such as jackhammers, pipe wrenches, set of wrenches, tape measures, hammers, circular saws, reciprocating saws, screwdrivers, nut drivers, drill chisels, punches, hand grinders, and Acetylene torches on a frequent basis. Weight of tools range from 1 - 90 lbs and are those used in common industrial maintenance applications.
  • Climb heights ranging from 1 - 56 feet
  • Maximum horizontal reach is 28", maximum vertical reach is 72"
  • Continuous standing and walking is required
  • Occasional ladder climbing and stair climbing is required to access jobs
  • Occasional stooping and squatting is required

Essential Functions:
  • Work from complex blueprints, drawings, plans and sketches. Will layout, install, align, balance, inspect, test and repair a wide variety of systems and equipment involving carpentry, plumbing and pipe fitting, masonry, refractory, riggings and combustion
  • Assists, directs, and trains the apprentice in the Millwright classification
  • Operates various material handling equipment such as floor controlled or overhead cranes, prime movers, work savers, forklifts and hydraulic Cherry Picker in performance of work inherent to the Millwright classification
  • Perform maintenance and repairs all service boilers, boiler water treatment service and cooling tower water treatment services
  • Maintains records
  • Safe usage of electric bug for transportation

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

What Haynes International employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom