1

Refractory Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

With more than 7,800 employees, BWXT has 14 major operating sites in the U.S., Canada and the U.K ... Experience with superalloys and/or refractory metals. What We Offer: * Competitive salary and ...

Materials Engineer

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$76K - $119K/yr

With more than 7,800 employees, BWXT has 14 major operating sites in the U.S., Canada and the U.K ... Experience with superalloys and/or refractory metals. What We Offer: * Competitive salary and ...

With more than 7,800 employees, BWXT has 14 major operating sites in the U.S., Canada and the U.K ... Experience with superalloys and/or refractory metals. What We Offer: * Competitive salary and ...

With more than 7,800 employees, BWXT has 14 major operating sites in the U.S., Canada and the U.K ... Experience with superalloys and/or refractory metals. What We Offer: * Competitive salary and ...

Welding Engineer

Lynchburg, VA

$34.75 - $48/hr

With approximately 6,400 employees, BWXT has 12 major operating sites in the U.S. and Canada. We ... and refractory metals). Benefits: * 12 paid holidays which include a winter holiday shutdown.

With more than 7,800 employees, BWXT has 14 major operating sites in the U.S., Canada and the U.K ... Experience with superalloys and/or refractory metals. What We Offer: * Competitive salary and ...

Materials Engineer

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$76K - $119K/yr

With more than 7,800 employees, BWXT has 14 major operating sites in the U.S., Canada and the U.K ... Experience with superalloys and/or refractory metals. What We Offer: * Competitive salary and ...

With more than 7,800 employees, BWXT has 14 major operating sites in the U.S., Canada and the U.K ... Experience with superalloys and/or refractory metals. What We Offer: * Competitive salary and ...

Welding Engineer

Lynchburg, VA

$34.75 - $48/hr

With approximately 6,400 employees, BWXT has 12 major operating sites in the U.S. and Canada. We ... and refractory metals). Benefits: * 12 paid holidays which include a winter holiday shutdown.

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 Virginia? For Refractory Operator jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Welding Engineer-Lynchburg,Virginia

Welding Engineer-Lynchburg,Virginia

BWX Technologies

Lynchburg, VA

$34.75 - $48/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 17 days ago


BWX Technologies rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

At BWX Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: BWXT), we are People Strong, Innovation Driven. Headquartered in Lynchburg, Va., BWXT provides safe and effective nuclear solutions for national security, clean energy, environmental remediation, nuclear medicine and space exploration. With approximately 6,400 employees, BWXT has 12 major operating sites in the U.S. and Canada. We are the sole manufacturer of naval nuclear reactors for U.S. submarines and aircraft carriers. Our company supplies precision manufactured components, services and fuel for the commercial nuclear power industry across four continents. Our joint ventures provide environmental remediation and nuclear operations management at more than a dozen U.S. Department of Energy and NASA facilities. BWXT's technology is driving advances in medical radioisotope production in North America and microreactors for various defense and space applications. Follow us on Twitter at @BWXTech and learn more at www.bwxt.com .
BWXT is currently seeking a Welding Engineer for its Advanced Technologies location in Lynchburg, VA!
BWXT is People Strong, Innovation Driven - be part of BWXT's innovation hub. BWXT's Advanced Technologies (AT) group researches, designs, and develops innovative new nuclear reactors, nuclear rocket propulsion systems, and radioisotope production systems for both internal and external customers.
If you are looking for a career where your experience is valued, innovative thinking is fostered, and barrier-free teamwork is embraced every day, then this opportunity is for you. The position will be located in the Lynchburg, VA, Advanced Technologies office and is eligible for relocation benefits.
Job Description / Duties
  • Develop, qualify, document, and support new automated and manual welding processes for the nuclear industry. Welding technologies include laser, electron beam, GTAW, resistive, and GMAW.
  • Develop, qualify, document, and support new additive manufacturing processes for the nuclear industry.
  • Develop, qualify, document, and support nondestructive and destructive weld testing and Additive Manufacturing material testing methods.
  • Performs metallurgical and mechanical evaluation of welds and failure analysis.
  • Provide expertise and guidance for product material selection.
  • Provide conceptual designs for tooling, jigs, and fixtures.
  • Create and update manufacturing work instructions.
  • Create and update equipment manuals.
  • Write technical specifications for purchasing equipment.
  • Lead equipment design teams.
  • Other engineering and manufacturing support tasks as required.

Job Qualifications / Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Physics, or Materials Science field is required along with a minimum of 4 years welding or Additive Manufacturing engineering experience. PhD may substitute for experience.
  • Familiarity with ASME, AWS and ASTM welding and material standards.
  • Understanding of fundamental metallurgy.
  • OSHA health and safety knowledge specific to weld hazards and laser safety.
  • Ability to provide clear, concise, accurate and timely written and verbal communication.
  • Hands on experience and ability to work in a shop environment.
  • Strong team player with the ability to develop effective relationships with internal and external customers and suppliers.
  • Travel (<10>
  • Must be a U.S. citizen.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) or Department of Defense (DOD) security clearance, whichever is required.

Preferred Skills and Qualifications
  • 6-8 years or more experience in welding and/or Additive Manufacturing.
  • Prior CAD/CAM experience.
  • Prior CNC experience.
  • Experience with automated welding systems utilizing robotic and CNC control.
  • Experience with power plant materials (carbon steel, stainless steel, Inconel alloys, and refractory metals).

Benefits:
  • 12 paid holidays which include a winter holiday shutdown.
  • Tuition Assistance.
  • This position will work a 9/80 schedule.
  • Free access to our 24/7 gym onsite in Lynchburg, Virginia.
  • 24/7 Employee Assistance Program (EAP) available to you, your spouse, parents, and parents-in-law, even if they are not covered under your BWXT plan.
  • BWXT employees have access to exclusive perks and discounts on everything from cars and electronics to banking services and a host of popular brands / products through Perks@Work.
  • Medical, dental, vision, short term disability, service-based retirement contributions with additional 401k match and more!

As a federal government contractor, BWX Technologies, Inc. and any subsidiaries, affiliates and related entities ("BWXT" or the "Company") complies with all federal, state, and local laws and customer requirements regarding COVID-19 and other health and safety protocols. As such, all BWXT new hires will be required to adhere to applicable Company COVID-19 requirements within the workplace as a condition of employment.
Applicants selected will be subject to a Federal background investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information or matter. Position requires U.S. citizenship with (no dual citizenship) ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Energy (DOE) security clearance which involves an extensive criminal and financial background investigation, drug test and previous employment reference verifications.
BWXT supports diversity and is committed to the concept of Equal Employment Opportunity. We have established procedures to ensure that all personnel actions such as recruitment, compensation, career development, benefits, company-sponsored training and social recreational programs are administered without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or veteran status.
https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/eeopost.pdf
https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/OFCCP_EEO_Supplement_Final_JRF_QA_508c.pdf
Nearest Major Market: Lynchburg
Nearest Secondary Market: Virginia
Job Segment: Nuclear Engineering, Nuclear Physics, MIG Welding, Manufacturing Engineer, DoD, Engineering, Science, Manufacturing, Government

What BWX Technologies employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom