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Refractory Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

RHI Magnesita

Refractory Technician

Monroe, MI · On-site

$30 - $37/hr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Experience operating excavators, tear-out machines, or similar heavy equipment. * Mechanical ... Experience in refractory, steel, foundry, construction, demolition, or industrial maintenance ...

ALLIED MINERAL PRODUCTS

Refractory Field Technician

Gary, IN · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Refractory Field Technician (Gary, IN) Allied Mineral Products is a leading manufacturer of ... operating practices and procedures related to casthouse maintenance. * Assist management in ...

HWI

Grinder Operator

White Cloud, MI · On-site

$15.25 - $18.75/hr

The Grinding Operator is responsible for operating grinding equipment to finish refractory products to required specifications. This position inspects materials for quality, performs dimensional ...

Calderys

Grinder Operator

White Cloud, MI · On-site

$15.25 - $18.75/hr

The Grinding Operator is responsible for operating grinding equipment to finish refractory products to required specifications. This position inspects materials for quality, performs dimensional ...

HWI

Operator

Fulton, MO · On-site

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

... of refractory products, the set up and operation of equipment and machinery to support the ... Operating and programing presses, setters, pickers, scales and all of bearing equipment; off bears ...

Calderys

Operator

Fulton, MO

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

... of refractory products, the set up and operation of equipment and machinery to support the ... Operating and programing presses, setters, pickers, scales and all of bearing equipment; off bears ...

HarbisonWalker International

Operator

Fulton, MO · On-site

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

... of refractory products, the set up and operation of equipment and machinery to support the ... Operating and programing presses, setters, pickers, scales and all of bearing equipment; off bears ...

H.C. Starck Solutions

Conditioning Operator

Euclid, OH · On-site

$20.50 - $23/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Our Euclid facility produces high-performance refractory metal products where safety, precision ... The Conditioning Operator works closely with Production and Quality teams to ensure products are ...

ELMET TECHNOLOGIES LLC

Conditioning Operator

Euclid, OH · On-site

$20.50 - $23/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Our Euclid facility produces high-performance refractory metal products where safety, precision ... The Conditioning Operator works closely with Production and Quality teams to ensure products are ...

ELMET TECHNOLOGIES LLC

Conditioning Operator

Euclid, OH

$20.50 - $23/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Our Euclid facility produces high-performance refractory metal products where safety, precision ... The Conditioning Operator works closely with Production and Quality teams to ensure products are ...

Oerlikon

Furnace Operator

Troy, MI · On-site

$16.25 - $20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Furnace Operator We are looking for a Furnace Operator for our Troy, MI facility. In this role you ... Support activities associated with position include preparation and maintenance of the refractory ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsRefractory Operator Jobs

Refractory Operator information

See salary details

$12

$18

$23

How much do refractory operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for refractory operator in the United States is $18.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.47 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.

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What states have the most Refractory Operator jobs?

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Refractory Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Refractory Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,827 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Refractory Technician

RHI Magnesita

Monroe, MI • On-site

$30 - $37/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago

RHI Magnesita rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Steady Work. Great Benefits. Competitive Pay.
Looking for consistent, year-round work in an industrial environment? Join RHI Magnesita as an Refractory Technician and enjoy a stable 40-hour workweek, competitive pay, strong benefits, and overtime opportunities.
 
What We Offer
  • $30.00 - $37.00 per hour, based on experience
  • Consistent 40-hour workweek
  • Overtime opportunities available
  • Comprehensive benefits package
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid vacation and holidays
  • Stable, long-term employment with a global industry leader
  • Opportunities to develop new skills in equipment operation and industrial maintenance
Role Overview
As a Refractory Technician, you will support refractory maintenance operations by operating heavy equipment, performing ladle tear-outs, and maintaining critical site equipment. This hands-on role is ideal for someone who enjoys working with equipment, troubleshooting mechanical issues, and being part of a team that supports essential manufacturing operations.
 
What You'll Do
  • Safely operate excavators, tear-out machines, and other heavy equipment.
  • Complete approximately 1 to 2 ladle tear-out operations per day.
  • Perform pre-shift and post-shift equipment inspections.
  • Conduct preventative maintenance and routine equipment repairs.
  • Replace hydraulic hoses, filters, fluids, wear components, and tooling as needed.
  • Maintain mixers, masonry saws, water lines, and other site equipment.
  • Troubleshoot mechanical issues and support equipment reliability.
  • Maintain a clean and safe work environment.
  • Follow all company safety policies and OSHA regulations.
What You Bring
Required Qualifications
 
  • Experience operating excavators, tear-out machines, or similar heavy equipment.
  • Mechanical aptitude and experience performing equipment maintenance.
  • Ability to troubleshoot and complete basic repairs.
  • Understanding of industrial safety practices.
  • Ability to work independently and responsibly.
  • Valid driver's license.
Preferred Qualifications
 
  • Experience in refractory, steel, foundry, construction, demolition, or industrial maintenance environments.
  • Experience with pneumatic tools, mixers, masonry saws, or similar equipment.
  • Welding or fabrication experience.
  • Forklift, skid steer, or other equipment certifications.

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds regularly.
  • Ability to stand, walk, bend, climb, and perform physical work throughout the shift.
  • Comfortable working in industrial environments that may include heat, dust, noise, and varying weather conditions.
Who We Are
RHI Magnesita is the leading global supplier of high-grade refractory products, systems, and solutions critical for high-temperature processes in a wide range of industries. With over 20,000 employees across 65 production sites, 12 recycling facilities, and more than 70 sales offices, we serve customers around the world.
 
Our North American team supports the production of materials essential to industries like steel, cement, aluminum, and advanced manufacturing. From EV batteries to smartphone glass, our products help shape the future of technology and infrastructure.
 
Come get fired up with our North American team!
 
 

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