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Refractory Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SSAB

Tundish Operator

Mobile, AL · On-site

$17.50 - $23/hr

At SSAB, the Tundish Yard Operator is responsible for the inspection, repair, or replacement of a ... Install all tundish refractory furniture, temp probes, stopper rod, stopper rod mechanism, chop ...

Calderys

Manager II, Steel Site

Osceola, AR · On-site

Participate with customer managers to steer future refractory and operating practice * Manage interaction of our technical resources with customer technical team. * Manage site overhead and expenses ...

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Refractory Operator information

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$12

$18

$23

How much do refractory operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 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 does a refractory worker do?

A refractory operator is responsible for installing, repairing, and maintaining refractory materials that line high-temperature industrial furnaces and kilns. They handle tasks such as mixing, applying, and inspecting refractory linings to ensure proper insulation and safety, often working with specialized tools and following safety protocols. The role requires knowledge of heat-resistant materials and adherence to safety standards in a manufacturing or processing environment.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A refractory operator can potentially earn around $10,000 a month with experience and overtime, especially in industrial or manufacturing settings. These roles often require technical skills, safety training, and familiarity with heavy machinery but typically do not require a college degree.

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.

Did the US lose 33,000 jobs in June?

The job market for refractory operators and similar manufacturing roles can fluctuate monthly, but there is no specific evidence that the US lost exactly 33,000 jobs in June. Employment reports from the Bureau of Labor Statistics provide detailed monthly data, which should be consulted for accurate figures. Refractory operators typically work in industrial settings where employment trends depend on manufacturing activity and economic conditions.

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 jobs pay 2000 a day?

Refractory operators typically do not earn $2000 a day; such high daily wages are usually associated with specialized roles like executive positions, certain consulting jobs, or highly skilled contractors in industries such as oil and gas, finance, or technology. These roles often require extensive experience, certifications, or working in high-risk environments with premium pay structures.

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 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.
More about Refractory Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Refractory Operator jobs? Cities with the most Refractory Operator job openings:
What states have the most Refractory Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Refractory Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Refractory Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Refractory Operator jobs are:
Refractory Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Refractory Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,827 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Refractory Technician | $25+ DOE

Key People Key Positions

Collinsville, OK

$25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Location: Collinsville, OK

Refractory Technician Pay Rate and Hours:
  • $25+ DOE
  • Monday- Friday 5am- 3:30pm or 4:30pm
Refractory Technician Job Description:
  • Participate in pre- and post-planned readiness of parts and tools and work schedule attainment.
  • Interpret departmental drawings.
  • Participate in installation activities EX: STUDDING, MASTIC, FORMING, POURING, GUNNING, INSULATING, LAGGING AND TRIM.
  • Assist team members to complete job functions as directed by the supervisor.
  • Complete understanding of departmental operating procedures.
  • Complete knowledge of departmental safety policies (These will be written as well as guidelines set by department head).
  • Responsible for quality and continuous improvement within job scope.
Refractory Technician Skills:
  • Three (3) year of REFRACTORY experience preferred.
  • Must be able to read and interpret machine blueprints.
  • Experience in the following job sets (STUDDING, MASTIC, FORMING, POURING, GUNNING, INSULATION, LAGGING AND TRIM, BRICK LAYING.
  • Ability to work in a repetitive environment.
  • Must be able to stand 10 or more hours per day and operate a variety of hand tools both powered and manual.
  • Position requires standing or walking most of the workday and frequently involves stooping and kneeling.
  • Must possess sufficient visual acuity and depth perception to complete job tasks.
  • Must be able to tolerate shop environment and exposures associated with confined space entry and industrial boiler manufacturing and apply appropriate safety equipment when required.
  • Must be able to lift/maneuver 75lbs. unassisted using proper safety techniques and/or equipment.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Must be able to stand 10 or more hours per day and operate a variety of hand tools both powered and manual.
  • Position requires standing or walking most of the workday and frequently involves stooping and kneeling.
  • Must possess sufficient visual acuity and depth perception to complete job tasks.
  • Must be able to tolerate shop environment and exposures associated with confined space entry and industrial boiler manufacturing and apply appropriate safety equipment when required.
  • Must be able to lift/maneuver 75lbs. unassisted using proper safety techniques and/or equipment.
Key Personnel Benefits
While on Key Personnel’s payroll, you can access Key’s benefits package, including health, dental, vision, term life insurance, short term disability, PTO and more!
Apply today! In order to make the best use of your time, only qualified applicants will be contacted.
Our office is located at 9717 E. 42nd St (TechRidge Office Complex on 42nd and Mingo), Tulsa, OK. Please bring a resume and ID to complete the I9 form between the hours of 8 am to 3 pm, Monday through Friday.

Key Personnel is an Equal Opportunity Employer.