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Refractory Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Bulk Equipment Corp.

Maintenance Technician

Memphis, TN · On-site

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

Bulk Equipment Corp.

Maintenance Technician

Memphis, TN · On-site

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

Boiler Supply

Boilermaker - Knoxville

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$24.50 - $29.75/hr

Refractory repair and installation * Perform all other duties assigned by the Service Manager & Service Coordinator Qualifications * High school diploma or equivalent * 2-3 years relevant experience ...

RAM Executive Search, LLC

TecgnicalSales Lead

Memphis, TN · On-site

$100K/yr

Support internal and customer training initiatives related to aluminum product applications, refractory performance, and process optimization as needed. Knowledge and Abilities Strong understanding ...

Navarro Inc.

Mechanical Engineer (3915)

Oak Ridge, TN

Experience with molten salts, high-temperature corrosion considerations, refractory/insulation systems, or specialized furnace and vessel design. * Experience in DOE, NNSA, nuclear, advanced energy ...

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Navarro Inc.

Mechanical Engineer (3915)

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site +1

Experience with molten salts, high-temperature corrosion considerations, refractory/insulation systems, or specialized furnace and vessel design. * Experience in DOE, NNSA, nuclear, advanced energy ...

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Refractory information

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How much do refractory jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for refractory in Tennessee is $15.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.94 and $17.45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What kind of job is refractory?

A refractory worker specializes in installing, repairing, and maintaining refractory materials used to line high-temperature industrial furnaces, kilns, and reactors. The job requires knowledge of heat-resistant materials, safety protocols, and often involves working in industrial or construction environments, sometimes with specialized tools and protective gear.

What are the common challenges faced by refractory technicians in industrial environments?

Refractory technicians often work in high-temperature industrial settings, such as steel mills or power plants, where they are responsible for installing and maintaining heat-resistant materials. One common challenge is working in confined or elevated spaces, sometimes under time constraints during plant shutdowns. The role requires strict adherence to safety protocols due to the risk of heat exposure and heavy equipment. Collaboration with engineers and other trades is frequent to ensure that installations meet precise specifications and operational standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Refractory Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Refractory Technician, you need a solid understanding of materials science, refractory installation techniques, and often a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with tools such as mixers, trowels, and specialized equipment for installing and maintaining refractory linings is typical, along with safety certifications like OSHA. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the safe and effective installation and maintenance of refractory materials, which are critical for the integrity and efficiency of high-temperature industrial operations.

What is a refractory job?

A refractory job involves working with refractory materials, which are heat-resistant substances used to line furnaces, kilns, and reactors. Refractory workers install, repair, and maintain these materials in high-temperature industrial environments, often requiring knowledge of specialized tools and safety protocols.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

Refractory specialists typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are usually found in executive roles, specialized medical professions, or high-level corporate positions. Certain executive roles in industries like finance, law, or technology can reach or exceed this income level, often requiring advanced skills, extensive experience, and leadership responsibilities.

What are refractory workers?

Refractory workers are skilled tradespeople who install, repair, and maintain materials that are resistant to heat, such as firebrick, ceramic, and other heat-resistant materials. These materials are commonly used to line furnaces, kilns, incinerators, and reactors in industries like steel, glass, and power generation. Refractory workers ensure that these linings are installed correctly to protect equipment from extreme temperatures and wear. Their work is critical for maintaining the safety and efficiency of high-temperature industrial processes.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Refractory jobs, such as specialized construction or industrial maintenance roles, can pay around $4,000 weekly for experienced workers, especially those with skills in high-temperature materials, safety protocols, and heavy equipment operation. These positions often require on-the-job training, certifications, or apprenticeships rather than formal degrees.

What Are Refractory Jobs?

Refractory jobs involve working with refractory materials and equipment, such as a furnace, broiler, and kiln. Common job titles include refractory technician, refractory worker, and refractory bricklayer. A refractory technician designs high-temperature equipment and heating structures using heat-resistant elements such as minerals, ceramic, and brick components. A refractory worker aids in the construction and repair of refractory equipment. A refractory bricklayer or refractory mason also works to build ovens and other structures for containing heated materials such as molten metal. Masons bond bricks or other equipment with specialized mortar.

What is the difference between Refractory vs Mason?

AspectRefractoryMason
Required CredentialsTrade certifications, safety trainingTrade certifications, safety training
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, construction sitesConstruction sites, buildings
Industry UsageManufacturing, heavy industryConstruction, renovation

Refractory workers specialize in installing and repairing heat-resistant materials in industrial settings, while masons focus on building and repairing structures like walls and pavements. Both roles require similar certifications and often work in construction or industrial environments, but their specific tasks and materials differ significantly.

More about Refractory jobs
What are popular job titles related to Refractory jobs in Tennessee? For Refractory jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Refractory jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Refractory jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Refractory jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Refractory job openings:
Refractory jobs near you
Infographic showing various Refractory job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,076 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

Machine Operator - Melt Deck/Refractory (2nd Shift)

Hendrickson USA, LLC

Chattanooga, TN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

Hendrickson rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 36 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

340th of 487 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Refractory and Melt Deck production associates complete a variety of operations tasks that promote the efficient melting and mixing of iron in the Spin Line department. This role requires employees to take on added technical/mechanical responsibility. They are required to learn mechanical and metalogical skills to ensure the mix of pour is ideal for the entire process.
Essential Functions:
  • Operate overhead crane to move raw material from raw material yard to charge cars for melting process and transfer iron to holding furnace
  • Weigh material
  • Monitor and add alloys as needed
  • Perform temperature checks on the electric melt furnace
  • Slag furnace removing impurities from 2650 - 2800 degree molten iron
  • Charge and operate the furnace to melt the materials for the full melt cycle
  • Enter and retrieve data from the computer
  • Perform routine preventive maintenance
  • Pour molten iron from furnace to transfer ladle
  • Sintering and cold starts
  • Maintain a clean work environment in accordance with the 5S guidelines
  • Operate industrial powered equipment
  • Perform all other duties as assigned
  • Knock out, pour, and rebuild the following:
  • Runner Box, I- Ladles, and Slag Poles
  • Complete the weekly PMs on melt furnace, which includes:
  • Knocking out slag from the furnace wall
  • Inspecting furnace lining
  • Repair furnace lining
  • Set furnace up for the next operating day and load travel car
  • Melt Trough, repair and or rebuild
  • Rebuild melt furnace
  • Remove condo
  • Cut trench in old lining
  • Set furnace to push out old liner
  • Push out old liner
  • Clean and inspect furnace wall
  • Repair furnace wall, grouting back areas of concern
  • Prepare furnace for relining
  • Set forms and prepare for materials to reline furnace
  • Use proper procedures for adding of materials for relining furnace
  • Perform relining and set up furnace for starting of centering cycle.
  • Vessel dismantling and rebuilding
  • Disassemble vessel
  • Knock out old materials and clean
  • Prepare vessel for reassemble
  • Pore lining and reassemble and set vessel up for test
  • Set vessel on heat to dry
  • Bull ladles knock out and repour
  • Be able to repair 50-ton furnace and #1 and #2 trough on the spin line
  • Install and repair all refractory work related to operations, including furnaces, iron ladles, troughs, runner boxes, slag paddles, intermediate ladles, installing nozzles, etc. Example: chip out the old lining from a furnace and install new lining
  • Inspect equipment to detect faulty performance and conditions, to avoid breakdown
  • Document information daily related to refractory work
  • Backup Melt Crane Operator / Transfer Ladle Operator / Melt Furnace Operator
  • Operate industrial-powered equipment
  • Crosstrain other employees as required
  • Perform all other duties as assigned

Qualifications:
  • Minimum Qualifications High School Diploma or GED required Ability to obtain certification to drive industrial powered equipment (example: Fork Truck)

Physical Demands:
  • Moderate to heavy physical effort (lift/carry up to 50 lbs with assistance)
  • Ability to go up and down stairs multiple times per day
  • Prolonged, extensive, or considerable standing/walking
  • Lift supplies/equipment
  • Pushes/pulls or moves/ lifts heavy equipment/supplies, with assist depending on weight
  • Manual dexterity and mobility
  • Considerable reaching, stooping, bending, kneeling, crouching
  • Far Acuity: ability to see clearly at 20 feet or more
  • Near Acuity: ability to see clearly at 20 inches or less
  • Depth Perception: ability to judge distance and space relationships
  • Field of Vision: ability to see peripherally
  • Accommodation: ability to adjust vision to bring objects into focus

Environmental Conditions Extreme heat exposure when working around slagging furnace. Temperature Changes: Variations in temperature from hot to cold depending on weather.
Hendrickson is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

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