Mesabi Metallics · 3 months ago
Refractory Engineer
Nashwauk, MN
Full-time
Onsite
Senior Level
$120K/yr - $150K/yr
5+ years expMesabi Metallics is a pioneering company in sustainable mining practices within the iron ore industry. The Refractory Engineer will oversee the selection, installation, inspection, maintenance, and performance monitoring of refractory linings, ensuring equipment reliability and process safety.
ConstructionIndustrialManufacturingMining
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
Analyze refractory performance, material usage, and failure trends to drive cost reduction and efficiency
Recommend technical upgrades or changes in material specs for improved reliability
Assist with budgeting and resource planning for refractory projects
Ensure all refractory work complies with applicable OSHA, MSHA, and environmental regulations
Support implementation of sustainable practices to reduce environmental impact
Qualification
Required
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
Bachelor's Degree (or higher) in Materials Science & Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, or Ceramic Engineering/Science
Benefits
Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage with an HSA option
Retirement Plan: 401(k) with 6% company match
Lincoln STD, LTD, & Life Insurance: Coverage provided by Mesabi Metallics
Paid Time Off (PTO): 0-5 Years: 120 hours per year. 5-10 Years: 160 hours per year. 10+ Years: 200 hours per year. Plus 9 paid holidays
Company
Mesabi Metallics
Mesabi Metallics, an Essar Group company, is constructing a state-of-the-art 7-million metric ton Direct-Reduction (DR) grade iron ore pellet and mine with resources of 1.3 billion tons on over 16,000 acres in Nashwauk, Minnesota.
11-50 employees
H1B Sponsorship
Mesabi Metallics has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships. Please note that this does not
guarantee sponsorship for this specific role. Below presents additional info for your
reference. (Data Powered by US Department of Labor)
Distribution of Different Job Fields Receiving Sponsorship
Represents job field similar to this job
Trends of Total Sponsorships
2025 (17)
Funding
Current Stage
Early StageCompany data provided by crunchbase