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Contract Refinery Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Pae

Central Plant Operator

Washington, DC · On-site

The Central Plant Operator serves as the primary caretaker of the facility's central energy ... Positions governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract ...

SCS Engineers

Plant Operator

Elk River, MN · On-site

$30 - $50/hr

What we are looking for SCS is looking for a Plant Operator who will work at an gas power plant ... budget, contract, and change orders; * subcontracting and material procurement; * staffing and ...

Amentum

Central Plant Operator

Washington, DC · On-site

The Central Plant Operator serves as the primary caretaker of the facility's central energy ... Positions governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract ...

CNX

Plant Operator

Washington, PA · On-site

Supervision of contract employees and ensuring materials are available is required. This position is responsible for the safety of themselves and others under their guidance. The Plant Operator is ...

Sasol

Plant Operator

Tucson, AZ · On-site

Under direction of Shift Supervisor or Plant Operator I and II, operates plant equipment including ... contract, or determination by the Attorney General. Please note Sasol will not sponsor, obtain, and ...

NRG

DOTP-Plant Operator

Bridgeport, TX · On-site

The Plant Operator ensures safe, efficient, reliable, and environmentally compliant generation of ... create a contract or guarantee promotion. * The position is a DOT PHMSA covered position and ...

TalentClout

Bulk Plant Operator

Strasburg, OH

$19 - $21/hr

This is a contract opportunity with a well-established industrial operation, offering variety in ... As a Bulk Plant Operator, you will be responsible for the safe, efficient handling and movement of ...

NRG

DOTP-Plant Operator

Bridgeport, TX · On-site

The Plant Operator ensures safe, efficient, reliable, and environmentally compliant generation of ... create a contract or guarantee promotion. * The position is a DOT PHMSA covered position and ...

NRG

DOTP-Plant Operator

Palo Pinto, TX

The Plant Operator ensures safe, efficient, reliable, and environmentally compliant generation of ... create a contract or guarantee promotion. * The position is a DOT PHMSA covered position and ...

NRG Energy

DOTP-Plant Operator

Bridgeport, TX

The Plant Operator ensures safe, efficient, reliable, and environmentally compliant generation of ... create a contract or guarantee promotion. * The position is a DOT PHMSA covered position and ...

NRG Energy

DOTP-Plant Operator

Bridgeport, TX

The Plant Operator ensures safe, efficient, reliable, and environmentally compliant generation of ... create a contract or guarantee promotion. * The position is a DOT PHMSA covered position and ...

Allan Myers, Inc

Plant Operator

Devault, PA · On-site

Perform winter maintenance repairs on plant. * Assist as an equipment operator as needed - during ... under contract. Any resume submitted without a signed agreement and prior written authorization ...

Allan Myers, Inc

Plant Operator

Reading, PA · On-site

Perform winter maintenance repairs on plant. * Assist as an equipment operator as needed - during ... under contract. Any resume submitted without a signed agreement and prior written authorization ...

Allan Myers, Inc

Plant Operator

Paradise, PA · On-site

Perform winter maintenance repairs on plant. * Assist as an equipment operator as needed - during ... under contract. Any resume submitted without a signed agreement and prior written authorization ...

NRG

DOTP-Plant Operator

Palo Pinto, TX

The Plant Operator ensures safe, efficient, reliable, and environmentally compliant generation of ... create a contract or guarantee promotion. * The position is a DOT PHMSA covered position and ...

Uofl

The Plant Operator II position assists the Plant Operator in the operation, monitoring, and ... contract renewal, tenure, compensation, benefits, and/or working conditions. No employee or ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsContract Refinery Plant Operator Jobs

Contract Refinery Plant Operator information

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$22

$39

How much do contract refinery plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract refinery plant operator in the United States is $22.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $25.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Contract Refinery Plant Operator vs Refinery Process Technician?

AspectContract Refinery Plant OperatorRefinery Process Technician
CredentialsTypically requires certifications in plant operation, safety, and possibly a high school diploma or equivalentRequires similar certifications, often with additional technical training or associate degree
Work EnvironmentOperates in refinery plants, often on temporary or contract basis, handling equipment and safety protocolsWorks in refinery process units, focusing on monitoring and maintaining production processes
Employer & Industry UsageHired by contractors or staffing agencies for refinery projectsEmployed directly by refineries or oil companies

Both roles involve working in refinery environments with similar certifications, but Contract Refinery Plant Operators typically work on a contractual basis, focusing on plant operation, while Refinery Process Technicians often have a more technical focus on process monitoring and maintenance.

How much do refinery operators make in the US?

Refinery plant operators in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $80,000, with experienced workers and those in higher-cost-of-living areas earning more. Salaries can vary based on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the refinery environment.

How hard is it to become a refinery operator?

Becoming a refinery plant operator typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, along with on-the-job training or technical education. Many operators gain experience through apprenticeships or entry-level positions, and certifications in safety and process control can improve job prospects. The role demands technical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a safety-sensitive environment.

Which oil refinery pays the most?

Contract refinery plant operators typically earn higher wages at large, integrated refineries operated by major oil companies, especially in regions with high living costs. Salaries can vary based on experience, certifications, and shift schedules, with some of the highest pay rates found in North American and Middle Eastern refineries. Skilled operators with specialized training and safety certifications tend to command the highest compensation.

What is the highest paying operator job?

The highest paying operator jobs in the refining industry are often senior or specialized roles such as refinery shift supervisors, plant managers, or process control engineers, which require extensive experience and advanced certifications. These positions typically offer higher salaries due to increased responsibility, technical expertise, and leadership requirements.
What cities are hiring for Contract Refinery Plant Operator jobs? Cities with the most Contract Refinery Plant Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Refinery Plant Operator jobs? The most popular types of Refinery Plant Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Refinery Plant Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Refinery Plant Operator jobs include:
Contract Refinery Plant Operator jobs near you
Central Plant Operator

Central Plant Operator

Pae

Washington, DC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Amentum is seeking a skilled Central Plant Operator to support the operation and maintenance of a central utility plant serving critical building systems in the Washington, DC area. This position is responsible for monitoring, operating, and maintaining boilers, chillers, cooling towers, pumps, and other HVAC and mechanical systems essential to providing safe, efficient heating and cooling throughout the facility or campus.

The Central Plant Operator serves as the primary caretaker of the facility's central energy production system, performing routine inspections, regulating temperatures, pressures, and flow rates, troubleshooting operational issues, and responding to emergencies to ensure continuous, reliable service.

Key Responsibilities
  • Monitor and operate central plant equipment, including boilers, chillers, cooling towers, heat exchangers, pumps, and related HVAC/mechanical systems.
  • Regulate plant operating conditions such as temperatures, pressures, and flow rates to ensure optimal performance and energy efficiency.
  • Conduct routine preventive maintenance, inspections, and equipment checks.
  • Troubleshoot operational issues and perform minor repairs to maintain system reliability.
  • Maintain plant logs, records, and equipment status reports.
  • Respond promptly to alarms, system failures, and emergency conditions.
  • Support continuous operation of heating and cooling distribution systems across the facility or campus.
  • Ensure compliance with safety codes, operational standards, and manufacturer guidelines.
  • Collaborate with facility engineers, maintenance personnel, and contractors on system repairs or upgrades.
Required Qualifications
  • High school diploma (required).
  • Experience in HVAC systems or mechanical operations.
  • Minimum of 3 years of experience working as a Central Plant Operator or in a similar role.
  • Understanding of boilers, chillers, pumps, and largescale HVAC systems.
  • Ability to read gauges, meters, and system diagrams.
  • Strong troubleshooting and problemsolving skills.
  • Ability to work in a physically active and safetysensitive environment.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret Clearance.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience working in government, industrial, or large commercial facilities.
  • Knowledge of building automation systems (BAS).
  • Familiarity with water treatment processes for boilers and cooling towers.
  • Additional HVAC or mechanical certifications.

Compensation Details:

$85,000-$90,000

The compensation range or hourly rate listed for this position is provided as a good-faith estimate of what the company intends to offer for this role at the time this posting was issued. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as job responsibilities, education, experience, skills, internal equity, market data, applicable collective bargaining agreements, and relevant laws.

Benefits Overview:

Our health and welfare benefits are designed to support you and your priorities. Offerings include:

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance

  • Paid time off and holidays

  • Retirement benefits (including 401(k) matching)

  • Educational reimbursement

  • Parental leave

  • Employee stock purchase plan

  • Tax-saving options

  • Disability and life insurance

  • Pet insurance

Note: Benefits may vary based on employment type, location, and applicable agreements. Positions governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract Act (SCA), or other employment contracts may include different provisions/benefits.

Original Posting:

02/10/2026 - Until Filled

Amentum anticipates this job requisition will remain open for at least three days, with a closing date no earlier than three days after the original posting. This timeline may change based on business needs.

Amentum is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our hiring practices provide equal opportunity for employment without regard to race, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding), age, ancestry, United States military or veteran status, color, religion, creed, marital or domestic partner status, medical condition, genetic information, national origin, citizenship status, low-income status, or mental or physical disability so long as the essential functions of the job can be performed with or without reasonable accommodation, or any other protected category under federal, state, or local law. Learn more about your rights under Federal laws and supplemental language atLabor Laws Posters.

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