FAQ
Refractory Repairer FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a refractory repairer.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a refractory repairer: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about refractory repairers
Is refractory work common?
No, it’s a very small field.
Is it dangerous?
It can be; strict safety rules apply.
Do I need a degree?
No.
How much does a refractory repairer make?
The median annual wage for refractory repairers was $61,290 ($29.47 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $40,590 and the highest 10% earned more than $86,510.
How long does it take to become a refractory repairer?
Most people need about Several months on the job of training. A high school diploma and moderate on-the-job training are typical.
Do you need a degree to be a refractory repairer?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus moderate-term on-the-job training.
Is refractory repairer a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change -13.7% from 2025–35 (a projected decline), with about 100 openings each year. Upsides include specialized skill; a common challenge is that hot, dusty work.
What skills does a refractory repairer need?
Key technical skills include refractory installation, mixing castables, gunning, and demolition. Employers also value stamina, safety focus, and teamwork.
What certifications are available for refractory repairers?
Common credentials include Confined space training, Respirator fit testing, OSHA 10 or 30, and Union apprenticeship. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Refractory Repairer fit quiz, compare with Brickmason, or explore Refractory Repairer training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 49-9045 (Refractory materials repairers, except brickmasons).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Refractory materials repairers, except brickmasons (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.