Refractory Engineer

Job Responsibilities

• Develop and implement preventive and predictive maintenance schedules for refractory-lined equipment
• Lead refractory shutdown activities, including relining and repair works in pelletizing kilns, induration furnaces, rotary dryers, and hot gas ducts
• Manage planning, procurement, and inventory control of refractory materials across plant operations
• Conduct regular refractory inspections and thermal audits using techniques such as thermography and endoscopy
• Identify wear patterns, hot spots, or potential failures and recommend corrective measures
• Maintain detailed inspection reports and develop condition monitoring dashboards
• Supervise refractory contractors during installation, shutdowns, and emergency repairs
• Ensure quality control and adherence to technical specifications and safety protocols during all refractory-related work
• Enforce safety practices during refractory handling and installation in high-temperature zones
• Ensure compliance with company standards and statutory safety regulations
• Support implementation of sustainable practices to reduce environmental impact

Skills And Qualifications

• 5 to 12 years of progressive experience in refractory engineering, high-temperature systems, or industrial maintenance — ideally within the iron & steel, cement, mining, or heavy manufacturing industries
• Proven track record in managing maintenance shutdowns, refractory installations, and equipment reliability programs in process-intensive environments
• In-depth knowledge of refractory materials (acidic, basic, insulating, castables, etc.)
• Familiarity with refractory design for kilns, furnaces, dryers, including anchoring and thermal expansion considerations
• Understanding of thermal processing in pelletizing and ore beneficiation plants
• Proficiency with inspection techniques like thermography, borescope/endoscope inspections, and material testing
• Strong leadership and contractor management capabilities
• Excellent analytical and troubleshooting skills
• Effective written and verbal communication for cross-functional teamwork
• Ability to handle shutdown pressure and lead time-sensitive repair operations