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Refractory Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Reliability Technician

Alpena, MI · On-site

$90K - $113K/yr

Working knowledge of rotary kiln alignment, refractory inspections, and shell scanning preferred ... Experience operating forklifts and man lifts, is a plus. * While performing the duties of this job ...

Reliability Technician

Alpena, MI

$90K - $113K/yr

Working knowledge of rotary kiln alignment, refractory inspections, and shell scanning preferred ... Experience operating forklifts and man lifts, is a plus. * While performing the duties of this job ...

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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.

Reliability Technician

Amrize

Alpena, MI • On-site

$90K - $113K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Location: Alpena Cement Plant MI
Job Req ID: 16214
Join our amazing team and contribute as a:
Reliability Technician
ABOUT THE ROLE
A Reliability Technician performs preventative and predictive maintenance on industrial equipment using diagnostic tools to monitor health, identify potential failures, and ensure operational efficiency.
WHAT YOU'LL ACCOMPLISH
  • Conduct regular inspections and use specialized tools for predictive maintenance tasks like vibration analysis, thermography, and oil analysis.
  • Perform preventative and corrective maintenance, ensuring proper calibration of test equipment and maintaining spare parts inventory.
  • Collect and analyze equipment performance data, generate reports on test findings, and maintain accurate records.
  • Investigate equipment failures, assist in root cause analysis (RCA) to identify and implement corrective actions, and troubleshoot process control systems.
  • Work with engineers and maintenance teams to develop reliability improvement plans, and provide technical input.
  • Understand and comply with Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) policies to assure that environment, health and safety are the first priority of the business. Actively support key safety initiatives at the facility and assist the department as needed to improve EHS performance and results.
  • Demonstrate a commitment to communicating, improving and adhering to health and safety and environmental policies in all work environments and areas. Promote a culture of safety and exhibit these behaviors.

WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR
Required Education: High School diploma/GED or 5 years of equivalent experience.
Additional Education Preferred: Millwright certificate or Journeyman's card.
Field of Study Preferred: College or Technical School experience preferred.
Required Work Experience: Minimum 3 years industrial maintenance experience.
Travel Requirements: 0-10%
Additional Requirements:
  • Good verbal and written communication skills.
  • Must have a strong working knowledge of mechanical systems, rotating equipment, and process maintenance.
  • Experience performing preventive and predictive maintenance such as vibration analysis, thermography, oil sampling, and ultrasonic inspection.
  • Skilled in mechanical repair and troubleshooting of bearings, gearboxes, couplings, drives, motors, and other kiln-related components.
  • Working knowledge of rotary kiln alignment, refractory inspections, and shell scanning preferred.
  • Ability to perform welding, fabrication, cutting torch, and general plant repair tasks as needed.
  • Proficient in hydraulic, electrical, and pneumatic systems.
  • Familiar with SAP or similar CMMS systems for work order management, reliability tracking, and equipment history.
  • Experience with root cause failure analysis (RCFA) and reliability improvement initiatives.
  • Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings, schematics, and P&IDs.
  • Basic computer skills required.
  • Experience operating forklifts and man lifts, is a plus.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel. The employee frequently is required to stand; walk; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; talk or hear. The employee will frequently be required to walk on rocky, irregular surfaces that may be muddy and in reduced lighting conditions. The employee is occasionally required to sit. The employee must frequently/occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds and rarely lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distant vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts. The employee is frequently exposed to high, precarious places; fumes or airborne particles, confined space, outside weather conditions, low lighting, artificial lighting, and explosives. The employee is regularly exposed to wet and/or humid conditions, proximity to electrical equipment, and vibration. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate and occasionally loud.
  • Successful candidates must adhere to all safety protocols and proper use of Amrize approved Personal Protection Equipment ("PPE"), including but not limited to respirators. Employees that are required to wear respirators must be clean shaven where the respirator seal meets the face in order to pass the qualitative and quantitative fit tests.

WHAT WE OFFER
  • Competitive salary
  • Retirement Savings: Choose from 401(k) pre-tax and/or Roth after-tax savings
  • Medical, Dental, Disability and Life Insurance
  • Holistic Health & Well-being programs
  • Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) & Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for health and dependent care
  • Vision and other Voluntary benefits and discounts
  • Paid time off & paid holidays
  • Paid Parental Leave (maternity & paternity)
  • Educational Assistance Program
  • Dress for your day

BUILDING INCLUSIVE WORKSPACES
At Amrize, there is endless opportunity for you to play your part. Whether you're in a technical, managerial, or frontline role, you can shape a career that works for you. We're seeking builders, creative thinkers and innovators. Come put your expertise to work while developing the knowledge and skills to drive your career forward. With us you'll have the chance to build your ambition!
Amrize North America Inc. takes pride in our hiring processes and our commitment that all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, ethnicity, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, parental status, genetic information, citizenship, physical or mental disability, past, current, or prospective service in the uniformed services, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local law. Amrize North America Inc, and its respective subsidiaries are Equal Opportunity Employers, deciding all employment on the basis of qualification, merit and business need. Amrize Canada Inc. is committed to the principles of employment equity and encourages the applications from women, visible minorities, and persons with disabilities. Amrize North America Inc. participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the United States.
In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA), if you have a disability and would like to request accommodation in order to apply for a position with us, please email recruiting-accommodations@amrize.com. This email address should only be used for accommodations and not general inquiries or resume submittals. In Ontario, our organization/business is committed to fulfilling our requirements under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act. Under the Act, accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process.
While we sincerely appreciate all applications, only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
PROTECT YOURSELF FROM RECRUITMENT FRAUD
The only way to apply for a position at Amrize is through our official Careers website. Be cautious of unsolicited offers or requests for information from other sources. Learn how to protect yourself from recruitment fraud here: Fraudulent Job Offers Policy