How long does it take to become a Refractory Materials Repairer?

Most refractory materials repairers, except brickmasons positions require high school diploma or equivalent. On-the-job training typically involves moderate-term on-the-job training. The exact timeline depends on your background — PathScorer can estimate your personal timeline.

How much does a Refractory Materials Repairer make?

The median annual salary is $58,540. Most earn between $48,380 (25th percentile) and $73,940 (75th percentile). The highest-paying metro is Texas at $58,340.

Do I need a degree to become a Refractory Materials Repairer?

No — most refractory materials repairers, except brickmasons positions don't require a college degree. A high school diploma or equivalent is typically sufficient. Employers value moderate-term on-the-job training over formal education.

Can I become a Refractory Materials Repairer at 40?

Absolutely. Career changers bring transferable skills that can accelerate the transition. Since this career requires no college degree, the barrier to entry is lower than many occupations. See how your specific skills transfer.

What's the hardest part of becoming a Refractory Materials Repairer?

The most challenging aspect varies by person. Career changers often find that skills from their previous career transfer more than expected. PathScorer identifies which of your existing skills already apply.

How to Become a Refractory Materials Repairer in 2026

Median salary: $58,540 · -16.9% projected decline (2024–2034)

O*NET Code: 49-9045.00 · Data from O*NET & BLS · Updated March 2026

Median Salary

$58,540

annual wage

Job Growth

-16.9%

projected 2024–2034

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

typical entry

AI Exposure

30/100

exposure score

Section 01

What does a Refractory Materials Repairer do?

Build or repair equipment such as furnaces, kilns, cupolas, boilers, converters, ladles, soaking pits, and ovens, using refractory materials.

Section 02

Refractory Materials Repairer Salary in 2026

The median annual salary for Refractory Materials Repairers, Except Brickmasons is $58,540. The bottom 10% earn around $37,050 while the top 10% earn over $81,440.

Experience level	Annual salary
Entry-level (P10)	$37,050
Early career (P25)	$48,380
Median	$58,540
Experienced (P75)	$73,940
Top earners (P90)	$81,440

10th: $37,050Median: $58,54090th: $81,440

Highest-paying metros

Texas

Highest paying

$58,340

top metro salary

Refractory Materials Repairer salary by state

State	Median salary
Virginiatop	$71,500
Indiana	$59,150
Ohio	$58,540
Texas	$58,340
Michigan	$42,650
Alabama	$39,740
South Carolina	$36,970

How to earn more as a Refractory Materials Repairer

The salary range for Refractory Materials Repairers spans $44,390 — from $37,050 at entry level to $81,440 for top earners. The highest-paying metro area is Texas at $58,340 — $-200 above the national median. Union membership, additional certifications, and supervisory experience are the most reliable paths to higher earnings in this field.

Section 03

How to get there

Typical education: High school diploma or equivalent
On-the-job training: Moderate-term on-the-job training

Starting from high school

Complete on-the-job training (moderate-term on-the-job training)
Earn industry-recognized certifications (EPA Section 608, ASE certifications, manufacturer-specific training)
Complete OSHA 10-Hour or OSHA 30-Hour safety certification ($25–$200)
Gain 1–2 years of supervised work experience
Advance to journeyman level or specialized role

Start with a vocational program or community college certificate in your specialization. Many manufacturers (like HVAC companies, automotive brands) offer their own certification programs, some of which are free or employer-sponsored. The EPA Section 608 certification is required for anyone handling refrigerants. Apprenticeships through IBEW (electrical) or UA (plumbing/pipefitting) provide paid training.

3–12 months to start working, 2–4 years to journey level $0–$5K

Many employers provide paid training. Union apprenticeships are typically paid from day one. Trade school programs may require tuition.

Switching from another career

Assess which of your existing skills transfer (many do — see below)
Complete a short certification or orientation program (EPA Section 608, ASE certifications, manufacturer-specific training)
Apply for entry-level or apprentice positions — highlight transferable skills
Complete any required on-the-job training (often shortened for experienced workers)
Advance faster than new entrants using your professional experience

If you've worked with your hands, operated equipment, or have any technical background, you're ahead of most applicants. Many skills transfer directly: diagnostic thinking from any troubleshooting role, tool familiarity from any trade, and safety awareness from any industrial setting. Companies are struggling to fill these positions and are often willing to train motivated career changers. Consider contacting local HVAC, electrical, or plumbing companies directly — many prefer to train their own staff.

1–6 months to start, faster advancement with prior experience $0–$3K

Certification costs are typically self-funded, but some employers reimburse. Union programs are paid positions.

Already working in another career?

See how your skills transfer to Refractory Materials Repairer — free. PathScorer maps your experience against the requirements and shows you what you already qualify for.

See how your skills transfer — free

Free to try No sign-up Based on O*NET data

Section 06

AI and automation outlook

30/100

The Refractory Materials Repairer role has a moderate AI exposure score. Some tasks may be augmented by AI tools, but the core role remains human-driven.

See full AI risk breakdown

Section 07