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Refractory Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

... operators and maintenance personnel. • Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and cost reduction projects. Qualifications • 5 years of experience in refractory installation ...

Support refractory inventories, material tracking, and usage reporting ... Provide technical guidance and training to operators and maintenance personnel. Participate in ...

Manufacturing Production Technician

White Cloud, MI · On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

... of refractory products, the set up and operation of equipment and machinery to support the production processes, and operating transport machinery to deliver materials to presses on the production ...

Manufacturing Production Technician

White Cloud, MI · On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

... of refractory products, the set up and operation of equipment and machinery to support the production processes, and operating transport machinery to deliver materials to presses on the production ...

Manufacturing Production Technician

White Cloud, MI · On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

... of refractory products, the set up and operation of equipment and machinery to support the production processes, and operating transport machinery to deliver materials to presses on the production ...

Manufacturing Production Technician

White Cloud, MI · On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

... of refractory products, the set up and operation of equipment and machinery to support the production processes, and operating transport machinery to deliver materials to presses on the production ...

Manufacturing Production Technician

White Cloud, MI · On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

... of refractory products, the set up and operation of equipment and machinery to support the production processes, and operating transport machinery to deliver materials to presses on the production ...

Manufacturing Production Technician

White Cloud, MI · On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

... of refractory products, the set up and operation of equipment and machinery to support the production processes, and operating transport machinery to deliver materials to presses on the production ...

... operating costs. * Support commissioning, upgrades, and new technology implementation for furnaces ... Improve refractory life, reduce metal losses, and enhance productivity through technical solutions.

... refractory brick products at HarbisonWalker International. This role is responsible for insuring ... Writing and updating Safe Operating Procedures: Maintaining safe and clean working environment by ...

... refractory brick products at HarbisonWalker International. This role is responsible for insuring ... Writing and updating Safe Operating Procedures: Maintaining safe and clean working environment by ...

... refractory, heavy equipment fabrication, stone processing, cement plants industries preferred ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ...

... refractory, heavy equipment fabrication, stone processing, cement plants industries preferred ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ...

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Refractory Operator information

Why were 92,000 jobs lost?

Refractory operators, like many manufacturing and industrial roles, experienced job losses due to economic downturns, automation, and shifts in industry demand. These factors can lead to plant closures or reduced production, impacting employment levels in the sector.

What is a refractory worker job description?

A refractory worker is responsible for installing, repairing, and maintaining refractory materials that line high-temperature industrial furnaces and kilns. They read blueprints, handle materials safely, and use tools such as trowels, mixers, and cutting equipment. The job often requires physical strength, attention to safety protocols, and knowledge of thermal insulation properties.

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 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 Refractory Operators?

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 jobs pay $700 a day?

Refractory operators in specialized industrial settings can sometimes earn around $700 per day, especially with overtime, experience, or in high-demand environments. Such roles often require safety training, technical skills, and adherence to strict safety protocols. High-paying industrial or construction jobs may also reach this daily rate for skilled workers with certifications.

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 jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Refractory operators can earn around $4,000 per week with experience and overtime, especially in industrial or manufacturing settings. These roles typically require technical skills, safety training, and familiarity with heavy equipment, but often do not require a college degree. High-paying positions in skilled trades or specialized manufacturing can also reach this level without formal higher education.
What are popular job titles related to Refractory Operator jobs in Michigan? For Refractory Operator jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Refractory Operator jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Refractory Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Refractory Operator job openings in Michigan as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Refractory Technician

Refractory Technician

Gerdau

Monroe, MI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Gerdau rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 65 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

190th of 527 rated manufacturers


Job description

At Gerdau, we empower our people to grow, thrive, and make a difference-together. With a culture built on trust and teamwork, we offer meaningful work, continuous development, and opportunities to shape your future. We invite you to come work with us, where your contributions are valued, your voice is heard, and your career is forged with purpose
Job Description - Refractory Technician
The Refractory Technician is responsible for the installation, inspection, maintenance, and performance monitoring of refractory materials and lining systems. The role ensures the reliability, safety, and efficiency of furnaces, ladles, tundishes, and other refractory lined equipment.
The incumbent supports operational stability by applying refractory best practices, identifying wear mechanisms, recommending improvements, and ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards.
Key Responsibilities
• Install, repair, and maintain refractory linings in furnaces, ladles, converters, and auxiliary equipment.
• Perform inspections to evaluate refractory condition, wear, and failure mechanisms.
• Monitor refractory performance and campaign life, identifying opportunities for improvement.
• Support refractory dry outs, heat ups, and controlled startup procedures.
• Work closely with Operations, Process Engineering, and Maintenance to optimize refractory selection and usage.
• Assist in refractory failure analysis and implementation of corrective and preventive actions.
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and quality standards.
• Support refractory inventories, material tracking, and usage reporting.
• Provide technical guidance and training to operators and maintenance personnel.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and cost reduction projects.
Qualifications
• 5 years of experience in refractory installation, maintenance, or technical support in steelmaking or heavy industry.
• Strong knowledge of refractory materials, installation methods, and wear mechanisms.
• Familiarity with Meltshop processes (melting, refining, casting).
• Ability to read technical drawings, refractory layouts, and procedures.
• Strong safety awareness and ability to work in industrial environments.
• Good communication, organization, and problem solving skills.
• Willingness to work shifts and support outages or shutdowns as required.
Reporting & Scope
• Reports to the Refractory Routine Facilitator.
• Works closely with cross functional teams to support operational performance and reliability.
• Scope includes refractory systems critical to plant safety, costs, and equipment availability
Gerdau believes in equal employment opportunity related to all employees and applicants for employment. It is the policy of Gerdau that there will be no discrimination against any employee or applicant for employment on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, marital status, sex, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, veteran status, disability, or other legally protected status. All external applicants must be legally eligible to immediately work in the country of hire without current or future sponsorship.
If you are vision-impaired or have some other disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act / Accessible Canada Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to applying for employment at Gerdau, please contact our Talent Acquisition Team at (866)-788-2798 or recruiting@gerdau.com

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