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Refractory Operator Jobs in Brierfield, AL (NOW HIRING)

HWI

Manufacturing Production Technician

Fairfield, AL · On-site

$16.75 - $20.75/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 ...

Calderys

Manufacturing Production Technician

Fairfield, AL · On-site

$16.75 - $20.75/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 ...

Bulk

Heavy Equipment Technician

Fairfield, AL · On-site

Responsible for the safe operation of refractory Tearout equipment including, but not limited to, LAG, Gradall, and KT Grant machines * Complete pre-shift inspections before operating equipment and ...

Carmeuse

General Utility

Saginaw, AL · On-site

$24.72/hr

Perform kiln outage work including removal and installation of kiln refractory. * Report equipment ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ...

Carmeuse

General Utility

Saginaw, AL · On-site

$24.72/hr

Perform kiln outage work including removal and installation of kiln refractory. * Report equipment ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ...

All JobsRefractory Operator JobsRefractory Operator Jobs in Brierfield, AL

Refractory Operator information

See Brierfield, AL salary details

$11

$17

$22

How much do refractory operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for refractory operator in Brierfield, AL is $17.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $18.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 cities near Brierfield, AL are hiring for Refractory Operator jobs?

Cities near Brierfield, AL with the most Refractory Operator job openings:

Refractory Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Refractory Operator job openings in Brierfield, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,287 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Manufacturing Production Technician

HWI

Fairfield, AL • On-site

$16.75 - $20.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Operate and program presses, setters, pickers, scales, and other equipment to support manufacturing processes.

  • Transport materials and finished products using transport machinery such as tram cabs, high lifts, and lift trucks.

  • Maintain product quality by following set guidelines, auditing, and observing to ensure standards are met.

Job description


HWI has a fantastic opportunity to join our Production Team as a Manufacturing Production Technician.
Summary
The Manufacturing Production Technician contributes to the success of HWI through the safe manufacturing of refractory products, this includes the forming, finishing, and packaging 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 line and finished goods into storage and/or trailers for shipment. This role is also responsible for maintaining quality by following set guidelines ensuring the product remains within tolerances established for customers. In addition, the Manufacturing Production Technician maintains clean & safe work environment as well as maintains professional working relationships with co-workers.
Responsibilities
  • Actively demonstrates and promotes safety and a safe work environment and holds their team accountable to drive a best in industry safety culture.
  • Audits and observes to ensure our product meets or exceeds quality standards. Owns Quality Control compliance for their assigned working area.
  • Analyzes equipment operations, performance, and problems and secures resources to ensure issues are resolved quickly and properly.
  • Operates and programs presses, setters, pickers, scales and all of bearing equipment; off bears brick from press table to rack cark, kiln car or pallet, cleans loose material and flange before setting in prescribed manner.
  • Operates tram cab, high lift and other transport machinery to deliver materials to presses.
  • Transfers kiln cars; transports racks and/or rack cars to and from presses and ovens.
  • Gauges and cleans kiln cars.
  • Operates lift trucks to transport materials throughout the plant.
  • Performs SMS charting and analysis of process variables.
  • Performs minor preventative maintenance on equipment and/or partners with maintenance to solve equipment changes and problems.
  • Actively participates in report out and production meetings.
  • Ability to effectively receive and decipher both ambiguous and direct/detailed instructions, provides innovative solutions, and both work independently or as a team member.

Requirements
  • Requires a high school diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • Previous forklift experience preferred.
  • Understanding of basic safety/OSHA standards.
  • Some mechanical aptitude.
  • Some manufacturing experience helpful.

Physical and Environmental Requirements
  • Physical Activity: Requires more than 2/3 of the time standing, walking, using hands and fingers, reaching, climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, speaking, hearing, tasting or smelling; requires less than 1/3 of the time sitting.
  • Lifting: Requires lifting up to 10 pounds more than 2/3 of the time; and lifting more than 100 pounds less than 1/3 of the time.
  • Vision: Requires accurate close, distance, color and peripheral vision, including the ability to adjust focus and use peripheral vision.
  • Environment: Requires more than 2/3 of the time working near moving mechanical parts, and being exposed to fumes, airborne particles and outdoor weather conditions; 1/3 to 2/3 of the time in wet or humid conditions, in extreme heat or cold, and exposed to toxic or caustic chemicals; and less than 1/3 of the time in an office setting, in high places, at risk of electrical shock and near vibration.
  • Noise: Requires working in very loud conditions (over 85 decibels).

About Us
HWI, a member of Calderys
HWI is the largest supplier of refractory products and services in the United States.
With manufacturing sites and distribution centers across the Americas, as well as the major refractory industry research facility in North America, HWI serves virtually every major industry that requires refractory solutions to enhance production and protect assets. HWI is consistently recognized for its talented experts, industry firsts, and intensely driven excellence.
We're actively expanding our team of dedicated, enthusiastic people - particularly in research and development, engineering and manufacturing, product management, and sales. As a dynamic, growing global refractory leader, we offer competitive compensation, benefits packages, and wellness programs. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we are committed to a diverse workforce.
For more information, visit https://thinkhwi.com/

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