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Refractory Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Calderys

Refractory Support Specialist I

Huger, SC

Summary The Refractory Support Specialist I represents HarbisonWalker International as an on-site and first call technical liaison servicing one or two accounts and receives direction from customer ...

HWI

Refractory Support Specialist I

Memphis, TN · On-site

Summary The Refractory Support Specialist I represents HarbisonWalker International as an on-site and first call technical liaison servicing one or two accounts and receives direction from customer ...

Calderys

Refractory Support Specialist I

Memphis, TN

Summary The Refractory Support Specialist I represents HarbisonWalker International as an on-site and first call technical liaison servicing one or two accounts and receives direction from customer ...

HWI

Refractory Support Specialist I

Osceola, AR · On-site

Summary The Refractory Support Specialist I represents HarbisonWalker International as an on-site and first call technical liaison servicing one or two accounts and receives direction from customer ...

HWI

Refractory Support Specialist I

Huger, SC · On-site

Summary The Refractory Support Specialist I represents HarbisonWalker International as an on-site and first call technical liaison servicing one or two accounts and receives direction from customer ...

Calderys

Refractory Support Specialist I

Osceola, AR · On-site

Summary The Refractory Support Specialist I represents HarbisonWalker International as an on-site and first call technical liaison servicing one or two accounts and receives direction from customer ...

Corning

Mason-Journeyman

Painted Post, NY · On-site

$20.50 - $26.25/hr

Due to the nature of tasks associated with this position all Journeyman Masons are required to be Journeyman Refractory Specialist. Key Responsibilities A Refractory Mason performs some or all of the ...

Corning

Mason-Journeyman

Painted Post, NY

$20.50 - $26.25/hr

Due to the nature of tasks associated with this position all Journeyman Masons are required to be Journeyman Refractory Specialist. Key Responsibilities A Refractory Mason performs some or all of the ...

HWI

Steel Operations Specialist

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

Summary The Steel Operations Specialist is responsible for working with HWI's steel customers to ... Trial and refractory installation support * Creating and presenting best practice SOP on EAF ...

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Refractory Specialist information

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How much do refractory specialist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for refractory specialist in the United States is $24.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a refractory specialist?

Refractory Specialists are skilled professionals who install, maintain, and repair refractory materials, which are heat-resistant materials used to line furnaces, kilns, incinerators, and reactors. These materials protect equipment from extreme temperatures, corrosion, and wear in industries such as steel, glass, cement, and power generation. Refractory Specialists assess the condition of linings, recommend appropriate materials, and ensure proper installation to maximize efficiency and safety. They often work in challenging environments and must adhere to strict safety protocols. Their expertise is crucial to the longevity and performance of high-temperature industrial equipment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a refractory specialist?

To thrive as a Refractory Specialist, you need a strong understanding of refractory materials, installation techniques, and industrial furnace operations, typically supported by a technical diploma or certification in refractory work. Familiarity with tools like thermocouples, heat-resistant materials, blueprint reading, and safety management systems is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and teamwork are crucial soft skills that help ensure quality workmanship and safety compliance. These skills and qualities are vital for maintaining the integrity and efficiency of high-temperature industrial equipment, reducing downtime, and preventing costly failures.

What are the typical challenges a refractory specialist faces when working on-site, and how can they be addressed?

Refractory Specialists often encounter challenges such as working in high-temperature environments, dealing with unexpected wear or damage to lining materials, and adhering to tight project deadlines. Effective communication with plant engineers and maintenance teams is key to quickly diagnosing problems and implementing solutions. Maintaining strict safety protocols and staying updated on the latest refractory materials and installation techniques can help address these challenges and ensure successful project outcomes.

What is the difference between Refractory Specialist vs Refractory Technician?

AspectRefractory SpecialistRefractory Technician
CertificationsOften requires specialized training or certifications in refractory materialsTypically holds basic technical certifications or on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentWorks in industrial settings, focusing on installation, repair, and maintenance of refractory liningsAssists with refractory installation and maintenance under supervision
Job ResponsibilitiesDesigns, inspects, and oversees refractory projects; troubleshooting complex issuesPerforms routine refractory installation and repairs

Refractory Specialists generally have more advanced training and handle complex refractory projects, while Refractory Technicians support installation and maintenance tasks. Both roles are essential in industrial settings, but the Specialist often takes on more supervisory and troubleshooting responsibilities.

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What are the most commonly searched types of Refractory Specialist jobs?

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What states have the most Refractory Specialist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Refractory Specialist jobs include:

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Refractory Specialist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Refractory Specialist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,897 per year, or $25 per hour.

Refractory Support Specialist I

Huger, SC

Calderys
See more jobs at Calderysexternal

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

HWI has a fantastic opportunity to join our Value Added Services team as a Refractory Support Specialist I. 
Summary

The Refractory Support Specialist I represents HarbisonWalker International as an on-site and first call technical liaison servicing one or two accounts and receives direction from customer and supervisor on work to be complete.  The Refractory Support Specialist I will work directly with internal Customer Service and Sales Representatives to provide customer(s) with the most cost-effective product to fit their needs and establish HarbisonWalker International as the product of choice.  This position is a labor-intensive job, assisting the customer(s) in lining, relining and repairing furnaces, ladles, and tundishes.


Responsibilties

  • Reading and interpreting refractory lining drawings; using brick saw and bricklaying equipment to lay brick up in ladles, furnaces, tundishes, etc.- handle bricks by hand for multiple hours at a time - perform plug changes, repair slide gates, etc.; teaching installation procedures to and providing guidance to correct procedures
  • Assisting customer(s) staff with all types of refractory installation methods, including gunite, pouring, ramming, pumping, ceramic fiber and firebrick installation
  • Assisting customer(s) staff with cleaning and preparing ladles, furnaces, tundishes, etc for repair, relining and fabrication
  • Observing product performance at customer(s) site; performing in service inspections, post mortem tear outs, documenting findings and reviewing with the proper HarbisonWalker International team member(s)
  • Working closely with customer(s), understanding their requirements and aiding them in obtaining the optimal performance of the products; monitoring stock levels to ensure the needs of customer(s) are met; placing replacement orders with HarbisonWalker Internationals Customer Service department
  • Preventive and general maintenance tasks on refractory equipment; documenting the preventative maintenance
  • Performing spare parts and equipment inventory count to ensure site specific standards are maintained; completing accurate and detailed refractory reports
  • Observing and promoting safety and 5'S standards; complying with established facility safety policies and procedures, and other regulations as applicable; participating in daily safety tool box talks and monthly trainings; maintaining a safe and clean working environment 

Requirements

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Ability to safely use brick saw and bricklaying equipment to lay brick
  • Requires working knowledge of refractory lined units
  • Ability to operate a jib crane and ensure the rigging of the load is correct
  • Ability to safely operate a forklift
  • Ability to safely operate various hand and electrical tools
  • Ability to read, understand and work in conformity with work orders, as directed
  • Ability to detect and correct unsafe or hazardous conditions of equipment and work environment
  • Organized individual with emphasis on quality and the ability to meet deadlines
  • Requires fundamental computer skills, experience in excel a plus
  • Previous construction or manufacturing experience will be considered

Physical and Environmental Requirements

  • Physical Activity:  Requires more than 2/3 of the time standing, walking, using hands and fingers, reaching, climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, speaking, hearing, tasting or smelling; requires less than 1/3 of the time sitting.
  • Lifting:  Requires lifting up to 10 pounds more than 2/3 of the time; and lifting more than 100 pounds less than 1/3 of the 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 the time working near moving mechanical parts, and being exposed to fumes, airborne particles and outdoor weather conditions; 1/3 to 2/3 of the 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 working in very loud conditions (over 85 decibels).

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