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Refractory Operator Jobs in Philadelphia, PA (NOW HIRING)

Refractory Operator information

See Philadelphia, PA salary details

$12

$18

$23

How much do refractory operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for refractory operator in Philadelphia, PA is $18.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.49 and $19.66 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 are popular job titles related to Refractory Operator jobs in Philadelphia, PA?

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

What job categories do people searching Refractory Operator jobs in Philadelphia, PA look for?

The top searched job categories for Refractory Operator jobs in Philadelphia, PA are:

What cities near Philadelphia, PA are hiring for Refractory Operator jobs?

Cities near Philadelphia, PA with the most Refractory Operator job openings:

Pediatric Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant, Neurosurgery

Nemours Children's Hospital Orlando

Wilmington, DE • On-site

$105K - $136K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Pediatric Advanced Practice Provider

Nemours Children's Health is seeking a Pediatric Advanced Practice Provider to join our Neurosurgery team in Wilmington, DE!

The Pediatric Neuroscience Advanced Practice Provider (APP) delivers comprehensive independent and collaborative care as an integral member of the Neurosurgery and Neurology teams, supporting pediatric patients with medically refractory epilepsy. The APP works in close partnership with attending physicians across the full continuum of care, including initial neurologic assessment, pre-operative evaluation, surgical coordination, and long-term postoperative management. The APP will provide first-assist services in the operating room, contributing directly to neurosurgical procedures and ensuring optimal intraoperative support. This role is essential to the effective functioning of the Epilepsy Monitoring Unit (EMU) and the neurosurgical operative service, ensuring consistent, coordinated, and family-centered care for patients navigating complex surgical decision-making.

Key Responsibilities

  • Comprehensive patient assessments including history and physical examinations
  • Formulating assessment and treatment plans of pediatric patients
  • Communicating with physicians about changes in patient's clinical condition
  • Educating parents/caregivers on patient condition and plan of care
  • Triaging and responding to phone calls from patient families
  • Accurately recording patient information in the electronic medical record
  • The NP must be able to work independently as well as part of multidisciplinary team.

What We Offer

  • Competitive salary
  • Health, life, dental & vision benefits for Associates and their dependents
  • Wellness program
  • CME days and dollars
  • 403(b) with employer match
  • Licensure and dues allowance after hire
  • Tuition reimbursement & tuition discount programs with various Universities for Associates and their dependents
  • Adoption assistance and 6 weeks of Paternity leave

Qualifications

  • Active Delaware Advanced Practice Nurse Licensure, or Physician Assistant Licensure with or without prescriptive authority required
  • If Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, must have Acute Care Certification and Active Delaware (or compact state) Registered Nurse Licensure required
  • Delaware Controlled Substance Registration (CSR), Federal DEA registration with Delaware Address
  • America Heart Association BLS
  • At least 1 year of previous peds experience
  • Excellent written, phone, and interpersonal communication skills required.

If you're looking for a position that will allow you to enjoy a work-life balance, have an opportunity for professional growth, and focus on pediatric care, this is the opportunity for you.