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Entry Level Oil Refinery Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Elevator Operator

Dawson, MN · On-site

$27.65/hr

Ag Processing Inc is currently hiring for an elevator operator entry level at our grain terminal in ... fuels, vegetable oil refining, ag products/grain, and international operations. AGP values its ...

Ag Processing Inc is currently hiring for an elevator operator entry level at our grain terminal in ... fuels, vegetable oil refining, ag products/grain, and international operations. AGP values its ...

Elevator Operator

Dawson, MN · On-site

$27.65/hr

Elevator Operator Ag Processing Inc is currently hiring for an elevator operator entry level at our ... fuels, vegetable oil refining, ag products/grain, and international operations. AGP values its ...

Merchandiser

Omaha, NE

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

We are currently seeking a motivated, analytical individual for an entry-level, full-time ... oil refining, grain merchandising, and international business. AGP values employees and offers ...

Merchandiser

Omaha, NE · On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

We are currently seeking a motivated, analytical individual for an entry-level, full-time ... oil refining, grain merchandising, and international business. AGP values employees and offers ...

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Entry Level Oil Refinery information

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How much do entry level oil refinery jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level oil refinery in the United States is $15.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are entry level oil refinery jobs?

Entry-level oil refinery jobs focus on the operations and process of turning crude oil into market-ready petroleum products such as gas. As an entry-level oil refinery worker, your responsibilities vary depending on your area of specialization. For example, as an entry-level operations worker, you may help manage the flow of fluid through the refinery. Or, you may work as an apprentice for several years before earning journeyman status. Other apprentice positions include pipefitters, control panel and pump system operators, and truck drivers. Entry-level engineers help maintain the refinery system and perform quality control duties that involve sample collection and testing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level oil refinery worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Oil Refinery Worker, you need a high school diploma or GED, basic mechanical aptitude, and an understanding of safety protocols. Familiarity with industrial equipment, safety certification (such as OSHA 10), and the ability to follow standard operating procedures are commonly required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong communication skills help individuals excel in fast-paced and potentially hazardous environments. These competencies are crucial to ensure safe, efficient operations and to minimize risks in refinery settings.

What are some of the common challenges faced by entry level employees in an oil refinery, and how can they be addressed?

Entry-level employees in an oil refinery often face challenges such as adapting to strict safety protocols, working in shift-based schedules, and learning complex operational procedures. It can be overwhelming at first, but most refineries provide comprehensive training and mentorship programs to help new hires adjust. Building strong communication skills and seeking guidance from experienced colleagues can make the transition smoother. Over time, familiarizing yourself with equipment and safety standards will help you feel more confident and capable in your daily tasks.

What is the difference between Entry Level Oil Refinery vs Entry Level Oil Processing Technician?

AspectEntry Level Oil RefineryEntry Level Oil Processing Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer technical certificationsHigh school diploma; technical certifications or associate degree often preferred
Work EnvironmentRefineries, processing plants, industrial facilitiesProcessing plants, industrial facilities, chemical plants
Employer & Industry UsageOil refining companies, petrochemical industriesOil and gas companies, chemical manufacturing
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles in oil refiningComparing entry-level positions in oil processing

Both roles serve as entry points into the oil and gas industry, with similar educational requirements and work environments. The main difference lies in the job titles and specific focus areas: 'Oil Refinery' emphasizes the refining process, while 'Oil Processing Technician' may include broader processing tasks across various facilities.

How do you get into an entry level oil refinery?

To get into an entry-level oil refinery position, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some roles may require technical training or certifications such as OSHA safety training. Relevant skills include understanding of safety procedures, basic mechanical aptitude, and the ability to work in a team environment, often with shift work involved.

Is it hard to get a job at an entry level oil refinery?

Entry level oil refinery jobs are generally accessible to candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent and some technical training or certifications. Competition can vary based on location and industry demand, but these positions often require physical stamina, safety awareness, and basic technical skills. Having relevant certifications like OSHA safety training can improve chances of employment.

What cities are hiring for Entry Level Oil Refinery jobs?

Cities with the most Entry Level Oil Refinery job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Oil Refinery jobs?

The most popular types of Oil Refinery jobs are:

What states have the most Entry Level Oil Refinery jobs?

States with the most job openings for Entry Level Oil Refinery jobs include:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Oil Refinery job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,578 per year, or $15.7 per hour.

Refinery Operator - Entry Level

Big West Oil

North Salt Lake, UT • On-site

$29.39/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY

The Loader position is an entry-level Operations role responsible for safely loading and unloading a variety of products from rail cars, performing tanker and work area inspections, ensuring proper connection of loading arms and hoses, monitoring loading and unloading operations, and maintaining compliance with rail safety, hazmat, and plant operating requirements.

This role is designed to build foundational refinery operations knowledge while preparing employees for future Operations opportunities. After becoming qualified in the Loader role and as opportunities become available through the applicable internal processes, employees may move into other Operations roles and continue progressing toward qualified operator positions in those areas. Success in the Loader role requires a strong safety mindset, mechanical aptitude, initiative, reliability, and a willingness to continuously learn the next level of responsibility.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Load and unload hot oil rail cars following established procedures and safety requirements, including verifying proper flow, identifying abnormal conditions, and accurately documenting volumes or required operating information.
  • Inspect the work area, equipment, loading arms, hoses, valves, and related connections before, during, and after operations, and properly connect, disconnect, and move product safely within the assigned work area.
  • Comply with rail safety, hazmat, environmental, plant policy, standard operating procedure, permit, lockout/tagout, confined space, line-breaking, and other refinery safety requirements.
  • Build working knowledge of assigned operating areas, including equipment purpose, process flow, normal operating conditions, documentation requirements, and basic troubleshooting expectations.
  • Work safely around pumps, valves, tanks, piping, rail equipment, hot oil systems, and other refinery equipment while communicating effectively with Operations, supervision, maintenance, and other work groups.
  • Maintain housekeeping standards and promptly report unsafe conditions, equipment concerns, spills, leaks, or process abnormalities.
  • Participate in shift turnover, job briefings, safety meetings, training, cross-training, certifications, and area-specific qualification processes to support progression toward future operator roles.
  • Demonstrate initiative as a self-starter, show willingness to learn new skills, and use downtime productively for training, area familiarization, and improvement activities.
  • Actively learn the next position up, participate in cross-training opportunities, and pass off and maintain all certifications required for the assigned role.

Demonstrate dependability, sound judgment, teamwork, communication, and accountability consistent with expectations for future operator roles

QUALIFICATIONS

Education: High school diploma or GED required.
Experience: Entry-level position; prior industrial, mechanical, or safety-sensitive work experience preferred.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Must be able to climb ladders and stairs, work at heights, and navigate uneven surfaces in an operating refinery environment. Required to wear PPE including FRC clothing, hard hat, safety glasses, steel-toe boots, and hearing protection. May be required to wear respiratory protection and personal gas monitors, including H2S and LEL monitors. Must be able to work in outdoor conditions including extreme heat, cold, and inclement weather. Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs. Must pass pre-employment physical examination.

ABOUT FJ MANAGEMENT & BIG WEST OIL

Big West Oil LLC is proudly owned and operated by FJ Management, ranked #134 on Forbes' 2025 America's Top Private Companies list with over 15,000 employees. Our North Salt Lake refinery employs approximately 270 people with an average tenure of 12 years—a testament to our family-oriented culture.

We pride ourselves on environmental stewardship and our commitment to employees and our community. Through FJ Management's Call to Action Philanthropies, Big West Oil helps fund initiatives that have invested more than $130 million since 2007 to strengthen working families across the West and Midwest—supporting affordable housing, scholarships, food security, and early childhood education.

Position Benefits:

  • Entry rate of pay $29.39
  • Strong bonus program
  • Retirement programs – 401(k) matching and additional contributions
  • Competitive health insurance – Medical, Dental, Vision.