What is a refractory?

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.