Refractory Materials Repairers

Your Fit

Income

$48K

Preparation

Some

Growth

-21.4%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Refractory Materials Repairer?

Refractory Materials Repairers specialize in repairing and maintaining high-temperature equipment like furnaces, kilns, and boilers. They play a crucial role in industries where heat-resistant materials are essential for operational efficiency.

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Refractory Materials Repairers.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Refractory Materials Repairer earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) is...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$31K per year	$36K per year	$48K per year	$63K per year	$70K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $350 above the national average.

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What does a Refractory Materials Repairer do?

Work environment

This occupation is typically found in industrial settings, such as manufacturing plants, steel mills, and foundries. The work often involves exposure to high temperatures, dust, and potentially hazardous materials, requiring the use of protective gear and adherence to safety protocols.

Quick task list

Inspects and assesses the condition of refractory materials.
Repairs and replaces damaged refractory linings.
Mixes and applies refractory materials.
Maintains tools and equipment used in repairs.
Follows safety guidelines and protocols.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

High-Temperature Refractory Repair: Specializing in repairs within extremely high-temperature environments, like blast furnaces.
Chemical-Resistant Refractory Repair: Focusing on environments where chemical resistance is paramount, such as in chemical manufacturing plants.

Description

Refractory Materials Repairers are integral in industries that operate at high temperatures. They ensure the longevity and safety of equipment by maintaining the refractory materials that line furnaces, kilns, and other thermal processing equipment.

The role requires a thorough understanding of the properties of various refractory materials, such as their heat resistance and durability. Repairers must be adept at identifying wear and tear, deciding whether to repair or replace materials, and skillfully applying new refractory components.

This occupation demands precision and attention to detail, as the integrity of the refractory linings is crucial for the safety and efficiency of high-temperature operations. Workers must be knowledgeable about the latest materials and techniques in the field.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Achieving tangible results in maintaining and improving equipment efficiency.
The technical challenge and problem-solving aspect of the job.
The essential role in ensuring industrial safety and productivity.

You might make a good Refractory Materials Repairer if you are...

Detail-oriented, with a keen eye for spotting defects and wear.
Comfortable working in high-temperature, industrial environments.
Skilled in manual tasks and enjoy physical work.
Safety-conscious and aware of industrial protocols.

Pros:

Specialized Skill Set: This career involves unique and specialized skills, leading to expertise in a niche area.
Diverse Work Environments: Opportunities to work in various industrial settings such as manufacturing plants, steel mills, and foundries.
High Demand: Skilled workers in this field are often in high demand due to the specialized nature of the work.
Physical Activity: Offers a physically active job away from a traditional desk setting.

Cons:

Physically Demanding: The job can be physically strenuous and may involve working in high-temperature environments.
Risk of Injury: Working with heavy materials and in industrial environments can pose safety risks.
Irregular Hours: May require working odd hours, weekends, or being on-call for emergency repairs.
Work Environment: Exposure to dust, fumes, and extreme temperatures can be challenging.

How to become a Refractory Materials Repairer

Typical education

Refractory Materials Repairers typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training. Formal apprenticeships or vocational training can last 1-2 years.

High school preparation

Courses:

Shop Classes: Courses such as metalworking or welding to gain basic skills in working with industrial materials.
Chemistry: Basic chemistry knowledge to understand the properties of refractory materials.
Physical Education: To build physical stamina and strength.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Technical Clubs: Robotics or engineering clubs to develop mechanical skills.
Part-Time Jobs or Internships: In construction, manufacturing, or similar fields to gain hands-on experience.
Volunteering: In community construction projects or habitat for humanity to get practical experience.

Preparation after high school

Vocational Training: Programs specifically in refractory material repair or related fields.
Apprenticeships: Hands-on training under experienced professionals in the industry.
Certification Programs: Certifications such as the American Welding Society (AWS) certification can be beneficial.
Community College Courses: Classes in material science, industrial technology, or similar subjects.

More resources

American Ceramic Society (ACerS) - Provides resources and information on ceramic and refractory materials.
National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) - Offers certifications and skill standards for metalworking professions.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) - For safety guidelines and training in industrial work environments.
American Welding Society (AWS) - Offers welding certifications and educational resources.

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