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Entry Level Refinery Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CHS, Inc.

Union - Operator, Shift I

Laurel, MT · On-site

$44.03/hr

Summary CHS has an exciting opportunity at our Oil Refinery in Laurel, MT. We are looking for a Union Shift Operator (entry-level operations) to join our growing team. You must be detail-oriented ...

Ag Processing

Elevator Operator

Hastings, NE · On-site

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

Ag Processing, Inc.

Elevator Operator

Hastings, NE

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

Ag Processing, Inc.

Elevator Operator

Hastings, NE · On-site

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

Job_Listing_459

Utility Operator

Lemont, IL · On-site

... refinery and natural gas coproducts. Oxbow produces and distributes calcined and fuel grade ... This is an entry-level position within the Operations Department. Utility Operators are responsible ...

Oxbow Corporation

Utility Operator

Lemont, IL · On-site

$32 - $37.43/hr

... refinery and natural gas coproducts. Oxbow produces and distributes calcined and fuel grade ... This is an entry-level position within the Operations Department. Utility Operators are responsible ...

Par Pacific

Assistant Operator

Billings, MT · On-site

Competitive pay and benefits * Entry-level job classification * DuPont schedule includes a built-in ... Load/unload refinery grade products at truck loading racks (asphalt) and railcar loading facility

Energy Transfer

Terminal Operator

Big Flats, NY · On-site

$26.52 - $30.85/hr

... refined petroleum products in a reliable and efficient manner while in compliance with the ... This is an entry-level position. Essential Duties and Responsibilities To perform this job ...

Sunoco LP

Terminal Operator

Big Flats, NY · On-site

$26.52 - $30.85/hr

... refined petroleum products in a reliable and efficient manner while in compliance with the ... This is an entry-level position. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: To perform this job ...

Energy transfer

Terminal Operator

Big Flats, NY · On-site

$26.52 - $30.85/hr

... refined petroleum products in a reliable and efficient manner while in compliance with the ... This is an entry-level position. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: To perform this job ...

BASF

Operator Associate

Savannah, GA · On-site

... career at an entry-level position while supporting a division that is active developing ... Our portfolio serves industries such as the automotive, chemical sectors, refineries, battery ...

Danos

Pipeline Operator I

Kenedy, TX · On-site

... crude oil and/or refined products. * Perform pigging operations and maintain associated ... High School Diploma or GED equivalent. * Entry level, typically 0-3 years of oilfield experience ...

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All JobsEntry Level Refinery Operator Jobs

Entry Level Refinery Operator information

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

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level refinery operator in the United States is $17.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an Entry Level Refinery Operator do?

An Entry Level Refinery Operator is responsible for monitoring and controlling equipment and processes in a refinery to convert raw materials, such as crude oil, into usable products like gasoline, diesel, and other fuels. Their duties typically include operating machinery, checking gauges, performing routine maintenance, and following safety procedures to ensure efficient and safe operations. They often work under the supervision of more experienced operators and are trained on-the-job to understand the complex systems involved in refining. Entry level operators must be detail-oriented, able to follow instructions closely, and ready to work shifts that may include nights, weekends, and holidays.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Refinery Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Refinery Operator, you generally need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic mechanical aptitude, and a strong understanding of safety protocols. Familiarity with process control systems, such as distributed control systems (DCS), and completion of OSHA safety certifications are typically expected. Attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to follow instructions precisely are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensuring safe, efficient plant operations and minimizing risks in a potentially hazardous environment.

What is the difference between Entry Level Refinery Operator vs Process Technician?

AspectEntry Level Refinery OperatorProcess Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical trainingHigh school diploma; technical or associate degree often preferred
Work EnvironmentRefinery plants, industrial settingsRefinery or chemical processing facilities
Job FocusOperating equipment, monitoring processes, safety complianceMaintaining and troubleshooting processing systems, optimizing operations

Entry Level Refinery Operators and Process Technicians share similar environments and credentials, but Process Technicians often have more technical training and focus on system maintenance and troubleshooting. Both roles are essential in refinery operations, with the Operator primarily managing daily operations and the Technician supporting system performance and improvements.

What are some common challenges entry level refinery operators face during their first year on the job?

Entry level refinery operators often encounter challenges such as adjusting to shift work, learning complex safety protocols, and quickly gaining familiarity with the refinery's equipment and processes. The fast-paced environment requires strong attention to detail and the ability to respond effectively to alarms or abnormal situations. Many new operators also find teamwork essential, as they frequently collaborate with experienced colleagues to troubleshoot issues and ensure smooth plant operations.
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Refinery Operator jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Refinery Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Refinery Operator jobs? The most popular types of Refinery Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Refinery Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Refinery Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Refinery Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Refinery Operator jobs are:
Entry Level Refinery Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Refinery Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 61% Full Time, 36% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,327 per year, or $17.5 per hour.
Entry Level Laborer - Refinery

Entry Level Laborer - Refinery

American Refining Group Inc.

Bradford, PA • On-site

$24.04/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Job description


Position: Entry Level Laborer

Compensation: Full-time

Company Information:

ARG is the longest continuously operating refinery in North America dating back to 1881. Privately held, the employees and leadership pride themselves on offering competitive pay, generous benefits and a supportive culture of growth and learning. In addition to a 401k retirement plan to which the company makes matching contributions, ARG offers participation in an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) to qualified employees, through which they share in the profits of the company.

Scope & Responsibilities of Entry Level Laborer: (Not limited to)

  • Learn start-up and shutdown and operating conditions in the assigned unit.
  • Grease and oil equipment and perform general maintenance activities.M
  • Mixing and delivery of chemicals and recording same.
  • Truck loading and unloading on an as needed basis.
  • Gauge readings daily and compute daily usage and record same.
  • Make periodic check of all equipment, keep same clean.
  • Make emergency repairs as required.
  • Learn and administer all paperwork associated with product transfer, gauge book and gauge sheets, tank codes, MSDS forms, product spec. book, unit log-book, etc.
  • Understand and operate under Process Safety Management (PSM) and ISO Documented Quality Systems.
  • Understand and operate under lockout/tagout regulations and open line/entry permit requirements.
  • Must be an active member of Fire Brigade and Haz Mat response teams and complete all required training.
  • Required to perform other activities or work in other areas as assigned by the Operator or Unit Supervisor

Benefits Available to Entry Level Laborer:

  • Health Insurance including Medical, Dental, Optical & Prescription
  • Health Savings Accounts & Flexible-Spending Plans
  • Life, Accident and Critical Illness Insurance Options
  • Short & Long-term Disability Coverage
  • Escalating Paid Vacation Plans
  • Paid Holidays & Personal Days
  • Education & Employee Assistance Plans
  • Employee Stock Ownership & 401 (k) Plans

Education & Experience for Entry Level Laborer:

  • High School Diploma or GED and minimum 18 years of age
  • General proficiency in computer usage and general office equipment such as phone, fax, e-mail, copy/scanner, etc.

Other Qualifications of Entry Level Laborer:

  • Available for shiftwork and overtime in support of 24/7/365 operations.
  • Must possess valid motor vehicle driver license and meet insurability requirements.
  • Follow all safety and work rules, attend all company mandated safety training programs and satisfactorily complete all on the job training.
  • Successful applicants on this job vacancy will be required to follow the line of progression and continuously train up toward Unit Operator position.

Physical & Cognitive Demands of Entry Level Laborer:

  • Demonstrate physical ability and skill to climb, enter vessels through man ways and work in elevated locations or confined spaces in all weather conditions.
  • Wear necessary personal protective equipment (PPE).

Additional Notes:

This position, as well as every other position at American Refining Group, is required to conduct their work at a high level of safety and quality performance. We require our employees to adhere to safety policies and procedures and expect they will help and encourage colleagues to do so as well. Our goal is to strive for a Zero-Incident environment that is a benefit to our employees and community. Our commitment to safety is identified as one of our core values: “Safety is our Compass”. Employees are expected to understand and operate under current Process Safety Management guidelines in accordance with their role. Adherence to our Refinery Conduct of Operations in refinery and safety-sensitive functions is critical to our ongoing commitment to reliable operations.

American Refining Group, Inc. executes and maintains an ISO certified Quality Management System to meet specified customer requirements for product performance, safety, and service.
Employees are expected to understand and operate under the guidelines of the Quality Management System while executing the functions of their position.

ARG culture promotes ongoing training and mentoring that is intended to be a developmental partnership for all (employees are subject to ongoing performance reviews and feedback).

This is not a job bid - external recruiting is being conducted concurrently with internal posting. Applicants will be selected based on qualifications and a job interview; final selection will rest solely with the Company.

Qualified individuals must be able to perform essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; they are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities.

EEO Employer –ARG is committed to providing reasonable accommodation in our recruiting and employment practices. If assistance is needed to participate in the application or interview process, or to perform essential job functions, please contact Human Resources.