Refractory Materials Repairers, Except Brickmasons
Refractory materials repairers build and maintain heat-resistant equipment used in industrial settings. They work with furnaces, kilns, boilers, and similar structures, using specialized refractory materials to construct or repair them. This work takes place in steel mills, foundries, refineries, and other heavy manufacturing facilities.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against refractory materials repairers, except brickmasons and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves inspecting damaged refractory linings, removing worn materials, and installing new heat-resistant bricks or coatings. Repairers may spend time on site at furnaces or kilns, measuring dimensions, mixing refractory compounds, and applying materials by hand or with tools. Work requires following specifications closely and coordinating with other maintenance crews to minimize production downtime.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely enjoy hands-on problem-solving and working with concrete materials and equipment. You prefer clear procedures and measurable results, and you're comfortable with the practical, systematic approach required to maintain industrial systems reliably.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $77,220 | $77,220 | $108,670 | — |
| Indiana | $63,840 | $74,600 | $86,510 | 90 |
| Texas | $58,180 | $67,330 | $70,280 | 130 |
| Ohio | $49,670 | $58,470 | $61,760 | 250 |
| Alabama | $37,810 | $47,650 | $56,250 | 110 |
| South Carolina | $37,870 | $37,870 | $48,810 | 50 |
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against refractory materials repairers, except brickmasons and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 49-9045.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.