Job Description

Overview

The Craftsman Refractory position at Thorpe Specialty Services requires a skilled individual with a solid background in specialty craft work within an industrial environment. The role involves independent fabrication, installation, and maintenance of specialized industrial systems or equipment, while also leading small teams.

Responsibilities

  • Independently fabricate, install, and maintain specialty systems and equipment according to project specifications.
  • Read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and technical drawings to plan and execute tasks with precision.
  • Use advanced hand tools, power tools, welding, and other specialized equipment to complete tasks.
  • Conduct routine quality control inspections and preventive maintenance on industrial systems, troubleshooting issues and making necessary repairs or replacements.
  • Supervise and mentor Craftsman II and apprentices, providing guidance, training, and assistance as needed.
  • Ensure all work meets safety standards, quality control measures, and project deadlines.
  • Collaborate with other team members to ensure the smooth flow of work across different stages of a project.
  • Perform advanced measurements, calculations, and alignments to ensure the accuracy of installations and repairs.
  • Ensure proper handling and disposal of materials, tools, and waste in compliance with environmental and safety regulations.
  • Maintain and repair tools and equipment, reporting any malfunctions or maintenance needs to management.
  • Assist with estimating material and labor costs for projects and report progress to supervisors.
  • Adhere to all workplace safety protocols and OSHA regulations to ensure a safe working environment.

Requirements

  • High school diploma or equivalent; technical certifications or training in a specialized craft area is preferred.
  • 1+ years of experience in an industrial or specialty craft environment.
  • Proficiency in reading and interpreting complex blueprints, diagrams, and technical specifications.
  • Advanced knowledge of hand tools, power tools, machinery, and industrial systems.
  • Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills, with the ability to work independently.
  • Ability to train and mentor less experienced team members effectively.
  • In-depth understanding of safety protocols, quality control standards, and industry regulations.
  • Ability to lift heavy materials and work in various industrial environments.
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate with teams and supervisors.

Additional Information

  • Work is primarily performed on construction job sites, exposed to outdoor elements and varying weather conditions.
  • Must be able to work in confined spaces or elevated areas depending on the project.
  • Physical labor may be required, including the ability to lift and move equipment or materials.
  • Flexibility to work extended hours or on weekends as project schedules require.
  • The employee must be able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable workplace accommodation.

How this job compares in Houston, TX

Pay in context

This employer didn't publish a rate. For reference, welding jobs in Houston, TX currently run a median of $27/hr in our index, with the middle half of them falling between $22–$35/hr across 88 postings with published pay. That median is a reasonable floor to anchor on when a recruiter asks what you're looking for.

The local market in Houston, TX

We're tracking 361 other active welding openings in Houston, TX right now, from 196 different employers. 123 of them were added in the last week. Across Texas as a whole we're tracking 1,256 other active welding openings from 562 employers. A metro this active generally means you have real leverage — employers here are competing for the same welders. Browse every welding job in Houston, or widen the search to Texas.

Thorpe Specialty Services Corporation currently has 3 other openings live in Texas, which is usually a sign of either steady growth or steady turnover — worth asking which in the interview.

The most active employers in Texas at the moment, by number of open welding reqs, are Austin Industries (34), Welding Shop in Austin, TX (27), and Zachry Group (23). Volume like that usually means either a genuine expansion or a staffing agency working several client sites — worth knowing which before you apply.

Within Texas, the best-paying metros we track by median hourly rate are Pasadena at $36/hr, Dallas at $35/hr, and Midlothian at $35/hr. If you can relocate or commute, that spread is worth factoring in.

Similar openings near Houston, TX

Pay figures are medians computed from live postings in the Welding Pros index, not from survey data, and they move as employers post. Craftsman Refractory figures were last recalculated when this page was built.