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Refractory Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Vallourec Star LP

Hot Metal Crane Operator

Youngstown, OH

$24/hr

Safely operating ladle and charging cranes during all operations * Identifying and reporting crane ... Supporting refractory, EAF, LMF, and casting operations as needed * Performing additional duties as ...

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Calderys

Manufacturing Production Technician

White Cloud, MI · On-site

$15 - $18.50/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 ...

HWI

Manufacturing Production Technician

White Cloud, MI · On-site

$15 - $18.50/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 ...

Gerdau

Mobile Equipment Operator

Midlothian, TX

$64K/yr

... Refractory materials. Assist other Melt Shop personnel as instructed. Primary Duties and ... Maintain material in feed hoppers or bins at an adequate operating level. * Keep constant ...

HWI

Manufacturing Production Technician

Niagara Falls, NY · On-site

$16.50 - $20.50/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 ...

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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 Jul 6, 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.

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.
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 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 41% Physical, 56% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,827 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Hot Metal Crane Operator

Vallourec Star LP

Youngstown, OH

$24/hr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Be an early applicant

Job description

Your Day-to-Day Impact

You’ll play a vital role in our Melt Shop Operations Team by:

  • Transporting empty ladles from the ladle preheater to the ladle car
  • Inspecting ladles for missing brick prior to use
  • Moving full ladles of liquid steel between ladle car, LMF, and caster
  • Inspecting ladles post-LMF for hot spots
  • Charging scrap safely and accurately into the EAF
  • Removing and replacing electrodes at the EAF and LMF
  • Safely operating ladle and charging cranes during all operations
  • Identifying and reporting crane operational issues
  • Supporting refractory, EAF, LMF, and casting operations as needed
  • Performing additional duties as assigned to support production
What You Bring

We’re looking for candidates who are safety-focused, mechanically inclined, and ready to work in a high-impact environment:

  • Ability to qualify for overhead crane operation (including physical and testing requirements)
  • Strong knowledge of OSHA and company safety standards for crane operation
  • Ability to recognize equipment issues and escalate appropriately
  • Willingness to operate both ladle and charging cranes
  • Working knowledge of Melt Shop operations (Refractory, EAF, LMF, Casting)
  • Mathematical skills (add, subtract, multiply, divide using whole numbers, fractions, decimals)
  • Strong problem-solving and reasoning skills in high-pressure situations
  • Mechanical comprehension and equipment awareness
  • Ability to work rotating shifts, overtime, weekends, and holidays

Preferred Qualifications:

  • 5+ years of manufacturing or heavy industrial experience
  • Prior hot metal crane experience
What You’ll Gain
  • Get paid for what you know—and earn more as you learn more
  • Opportunities to work with advanced Melt Shop equipment
  • A culture that values safety, teamwork, and continuous improvement
  • Real growth potential in a stable, essential industry
  • Overtime opportunities
And Benefits that Include:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage
  • Company-Paid Life Insurance & Short/Long-Term Disability
  • 401(k): Company match 3% with no vesting period
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Paid Holidays (10 days + 1 floating holiday)
  • Paid Vacation Time
  • Discretionary Performance-Based Bonus Program
  • Tuition Reimbursement