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Chemical Plant Refinery Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Chemical Plant Refinery information

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How much do chemical plant refinery jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for chemical plant refinery in the United States is $21.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a chemical plant refinery worker do?

A Chemical Plant Refinery worker operates and monitors equipment used to process raw materials into chemicals, fuels, or other products. They ensure that production processes run safely and efficiently, following strict safety and environmental regulations. Duties often include controlling chemical reactions, troubleshooting equipment issues, conducting quality checks, and recording data. Chemical Plant Refinery workers may also handle hazardous materials and participate in regular maintenance and emergency response drills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a chemical plant refinery worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chemical Plant Operator, you need a solid understanding of chemical processes, safety protocols, and typically a high school diploma or associate degree in a related field. Familiarity with process control systems (such as DCS or SCADA), safety certifications like OSHA, and the use of laboratory testing equipment are often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for monitoring operations and responding to incidents. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, efficient plant operation and help prevent costly or dangerous errors in a high-risk environment.

What are some common challenges faced by operators working in a chemical plant refinery, and how can they be managed?

Operators in chemical plant refineries often face challenges such as maintaining strict safety standards while handling hazardous materials, responding quickly to equipment malfunctions, and adapting to shift work schedules. Managing these challenges requires strong attention to detail, adherence to safety protocols, and effective communication with team members and supervisors. Many refineries provide ongoing training and support to help operators stay up to date with best practices and regulatory requirements, ensuring a safe and efficient work environment.

What is the difference between Chemical Plant Refinery vs Chemical Process Technician?

AspectChemical Plant RefineryChemical Process Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in chemical engineering or chemistry, with certifications like OSHA safety trainingUsually holds a diploma or associate degree in chemical technology or related field, with safety certifications
Work EnvironmentOperates in large-scale refinery facilities, often outdoors or in industrial plantsWorks in processing units, laboratories, or control rooms within chemical plants
Industry UsageCommonly employed in oil refineries, petrochemical plants, and large chemical manufacturing facilitiesFound in chemical manufacturing, refining, and processing plants across various industries

Both roles involve working in chemical processing environments, but Chemical Plant Refinery positions typically require more advanced technical knowledge and certifications. Chemical Process Technicians focus on operating and maintaining equipment within chemical plants, often with less emphasis on engineering design. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path in the chemical industry.

How to get a job in a chemical plant refinery?

To get a job as a chemical plant refinery worker, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant technical training, and safety certifications such as OSHA. Experience with process operations, understanding of chemical handling, and strong attention to safety protocols are also important for employment in this industry.

What states have the most Chemical Plant Refinery jobs?

States with the most job openings for Chemical Plant Refinery jobs include:

Infographic showing various Chemical Plant Refinery job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,615 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Professional In Residence, Chemical Engineering

Louisiana Tech University

Louisiana, MO • On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New


Louisiana Tech University rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

491st of 629 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Welcome to the Professional‑in‑Residence (PIR) faculty position in the Chemical Engineering program at Louisiana Tech University. This is a 10‑month, non‑tenure‑track appointment starting September12026, renewable annually upon satisfactory performance.

The successful candidate will manage a two‑story, 3,400‑square‑foot teaching laboratory that houses process control systems, distillation columns, heat exchangers, fluid flow and pumping equipment, evaporation, absorption, drying systems, reactors, and a lab‑scale paper production line.

Responsibilities
  • Teach and set up the undergraduate Chemical Laboratory Safety class and Chemical Engineering Junior and Senior Laboratories.
  • Provide safety training for students in teaching laboratories and create a safe environment.
  • Initiate requisitions for laboratory supplies.
  • Arrange for equipment maintenance and repair.
  • Train teaching assistants when required.
  • Participate in biweekly faculty meetings during the school year.
  • Serve as Chair of the Safety Committee for the College of Engineering and Science, overseeing the annual hazardous chemical inventory.
  • Coordinate the annual property inventory for the Chemical Engineering program.
  • Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
  • Experience working in a chemical plant, refinery, or other industrial operation within the Chemical Engineering field.
  • Five years of experience or more, and 18 semester credit hours of graduate study in Chemical Engineering or a related discipline are strongly preferred.
Additional Requirements
  • May require a criminal background check for selected candidates.
Equal Opportunity Statement

Louisia Tech University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/ADA Employer and places a high priority on the creation of an environment supportive of ethnic minorities, women, veterans, and persons with disabilities.

Contact

Mortissa Harvey – Title IX Coordinator
Phone: 318.257.5911
Email: mharvey@latech.edu

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