Refractory Materials Repairers, Except Brickmasons: Salary $61,290, but Job Decline Looms
Refractory Materials Repairers, Except Brickmasons earn a median salary of $61,290 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The mean wage is $63,770, or about $29 an hour. Most earn between $40,590 and $86,510. But this is a small, shrinking field: only 1,080 workers nationwide, with employment projected to drop 16.9% from 2024 to 2034.
How much Refractory Materials Repairers, Except Brickmasons earn
The national median salary for Refractory Materials Repairers, Except Brickmasons is $61,290. Half of all workers earn between $40,590 (10th percentile) and $86,510 (90th percentile). The mean hourly wage is roughly $29.
Pay varies by industry and experience. Entry-level positions typically start near the lower end, while experienced technicians in high-paying states can push toward the top of the range.
- Median annual salary: $61,290
- Mean annual salary: $63,770
- Hourly mean: about $29
- Typical range: $40,590 – $86,510
Pay by state
Where you work matters a lot. California tops the list at $77,220 mean annual wage. Indiana ($74,600) and Texas ($67,330) also pay well. Ohio ($58,470) and Alabama ($47,650) are below the national average. South Carolina is the lowest among reported states at $37,870.
These differences reflect local industry demand and cost of living. The highest-paying areas often have heavy manufacturing, steel mills, or power plants that need refractory repair.
- Highest-paying states: California ($77,220), Indiana ($74,600), Texas ($67,330)
- Lower-paying states: Ohio ($58,470), Alabama ($47,650), South Carolina ($37,870)
How to become Refractory Materials Repairers, Except Brickmason
There's no single path, but most workers learn through on-the-job training or apprenticeships. A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required. Some technical colleges offer courses in materials science or industrial maintenance, but specific refractory repair programs are rare.
Many start as helpers or laborers in industrial settings like steel mills, foundries, or glass plants. Physical stamina, attention to detail, and comfort with high heat are essential. Certifications like OSHA safety training can boost employability.
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- On-the-job training or apprenticeship (2-4 years common)
- Helper positions in heavy industry provide entry
- OSHA safety certification recommended
Job outlook
The BLS projects a 16.9% decline in employment from 2024 to 2034, losing about 180 jobs over the decade. That's a much steeper drop than the average occupation. About 100 openings per year are expected, mostly to replace workers who retire or leave the field.
The decline is tied to automation, improved refractory materials that last longer, and the overall contraction of U.S. heavy manufacturing. Competition will be tight; experienced workers with specialized skills will have the best chances.
Frequently asked questions
What is the median salary for Refractory Materials Repairers, Except Brickmasons?
The national median salary is $61,290 per year. The mean annual wage is $63,770, and the hourly mean is about $29.
How many Refractory Materials Repairers, Except Brickmasons jobs are there?
As of May 2024, there are 1,080 jobs nationwide. The occupation is very small.
Is Refractory Materials Repairer a growing career?
No. Employment is projected to decline 16.9% from 2024 to 2034, a loss of about 180 jobs. Openings will be few—around 100 per year—mostly due to retirements.
What education do I need to become a Refractory Materials Repairer?
A high school diploma is usually enough. Most training happens on the job or through an apprenticeship lasting 2-4 years. Safety certifications help.
Which states pay the most for Refractory Materials Repairers?
California pays the highest mean wage at $77,220, followed by Indiana ($74,600) and Texas ($67,330). South Carolina pays the least among reported states at $37,870.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Refractory Materials Repairers, Except Brickmasons data.