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Refractory Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Calderys

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 ...

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 ...

JW Hicks

Be Seen First

Production Manager

Plymouth, IN · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

... refractory shape production. Job Responsibilities: • Develop, maintain, and direct continual improvement of operating practices and procedures in manufacturing process. • Develop, implement and ...

JW Hicks

Be Seen First

Production Manager

Knox, IN · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

... refractory shape production. Job Responsibilities: • Develop, maintain, and direct continual improvement of operating practices and procedures in manufacturing process. • Develop, implement and ...

JW Hicks

Be Seen First

Production Manager

Valparaiso, IN · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

... refractory shape production. Job Responsibilities: • Develop, maintain, and direct continual improvement of operating practices and procedures in manufacturing process. • Develop, implement and ...

ATI

Furnace Mason

Monroe, NC · On-site

Remove and install refractory brick in walls, ceilings, floors, and arches when performing repairs or rebuilds of furnaces * Perform various types of rough finish masonry work such as laying brick

Bulk Equipment Corp.

Operating Technician

Memphis, TN · On-site

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

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All JobsRefractory Operator Jobs

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.

Manufacturing Production Technician

Calderys

White Cloud, MI • On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

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 HarbisonWalker International 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
  • Auditing and observing manufacturing process to ensure products meets or exceeds quality standards; owning Quality Control compliance for assigned working area and keeping appropriate logs
  • Operating and programing presses, setters, pickers, scales and all of bearing equipment; off bears brick from press table to rack cart, kiln car or pallet, cleans loose material and flange before setting in prescribed manner
  • Operating tram cab, high lift and other transport machinery to deliver materials to presses; operating lift trucks to transport materials throughout the plant; Transferring kiln cars; transporting racks and/or rack cars to and from presses and ovens; gauging and cleaning kiln cars
  • Actively demonstrates and promotes safety and a safe work environment and hold themselves accountable to drive a best in industry safety culture.
  • Analyzes equipment operations, performance, and problems and secures resources to ensure issues are resolved quickly and properly. 

Requirements
  • Requires high school diploma or equivalent
  • Some manufacturing experience helpful
  • Previous forklift experience preferred
  • Understanding of basic safety/OSHA standards
  • Mechanical aptitude
  • Two (2) - four (4) years of previous machine operating or production related experience preferred

Physical and Environmental Requirements
  • Physical Activity:  Requires more than 2/3 of time standing, walking, using hands and fingers, reaching, climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, speaking; requires less than 1/3 of time sitting, 
  • Lifting:  Requires lifting to 100 pounds less than 1/3 of 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 time working near moving mechanical parts and being exposed to fumes, airborne particles and outdoor weather conditions; 1/3 to 2/3 of 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 exposure to very loud noise.
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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