Refractory Materials Repairers, Except Brickmasons
O*NET 49-9045.00 · SOC 49-9045
Refractory Materials Repairer is a risky career choice. Median pay is $61k a year with -13.7% projected growth through 2035 (declining) and about 100 openings a year. AI exposure: Elevated.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Remove and replace worn refractory brick linings in furnaces
- →Apply castable refractory materials to repair kiln and boiler walls
- →Inspect refractory linings for cracks, erosion, and heat damage
- →Mix and apply mortar to seal joints in high-temperature equipment
- →Cure newly installed refractory materials using controlled heat procedures
Education & How to Get In
Refractory Materials Repairer roles typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, with most training happening on the job. This makes it one of the more accessible career paths, you can often start working while earning certifications or completing short-term training programs.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Hands-on, labs, workshops, or field sites
Mixed, alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Refractory Materials Repairer involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Refractory Materials Repairer?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Refractory Materials Repairer Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Refractory Materials Repairers, Except Brickmasons is projected to decline 13.7% from 2025 to 2035, declining for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·37% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target
- ·51% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
- ·Industry sector with low automation exposure
- ·Declining employment suggests structural disruption
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Refractory Materials Repairer make?
The median Refractory Materials Repairer earns $61k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Refractory Materials Repairer jobs?
Our model puts Refractory Materials Repairer at 54 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is elevated disruption risk. The main drivers: 37% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target; 51% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress.
Is Refractory Materials Repairer a growing field?
Employment is projected to shrink 13.7% between 2025 and 2035, which is declining. That works out to roughly 100 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Refractory Materials Repairer?
Most Refractory Materials Repairer roles need a high school diploma or equivalent, with training happening on the job. A degree is not the usual route in.
How long does it take to become a Refractory Materials Repairer?
Typically under a year, usually a high school diploma plus short training. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 2 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Refractory Materials Repairer career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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