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Entry Level Refinery Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

HollyFrontier

Entry Level Operator

Artesia, NM · On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

Basic Function HF Sinclair Asphalt located in Artesia, NM is seeking an Entry Level Operator. This ... Petroleum refinery, warehouse/plant environment, out-of-doors environment, and occasional driver ...

HF Sinclair

Entry Level Operator

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

Basic Function HF Sinclair Asphalt located in Albuquerque, NM is seeking an Entry Level Operator ... Petroleum refinery, warehouse/plant environment, out-of-doors environment, and occasional driver ...

HF Sinclair

Entry Level Operator

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

Basic Function HF Sinclair Asphalt located in Albuquerque, NM is seeking an Entry Level Operator ... Petroleum refinery, warehouse/plant environment, out-of-doors environment, and occasional driver ...

HF Sinclair

Entry Level Operator

Albuquerque, NM

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

Basic Function HF Sinclair Asphalt located in Albuquerque, NM is seeking an Entry Level Operator ... Petroleum refinery, warehouse/plant environment, out-of-doors environment, and occasional driver ...

HollyFrontier

Entry Level Operator

Albuquerque, NM

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

Basic Function HF Sinclair Asphalt located in Albuquerque, NM is seeking an Entry Level Operator ... Petroleum refinery, warehouse/plant environment, out-of-doors environment, and occasional driver ...

HF Sinclair

Entry Level Operator

Artesia, NM · On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

Basic Function HF Sinclair Asphalt located in Artesia, NM is seeking an Entry Level Operator. This ... Petroleum refinery, warehouse/plant environment, out-of-doors environment, and occasional driver ...

HF Sinclair

Entry Level Operator

Artesia, NM · On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

Basic Function HF Sinclair Asphalt located in Artesia, NM is seeking an Entry Level Operator. This ... Petroleum refinery, warehouse/plant environment, out-of-doors environment, and occasional driver ...

Job_Listing_459

Utility Operator

Lemont, IL

... 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 ...

CleanHarbors

Solvent Process Operator I

Dolton, IL

$25/hr

... the facility. Entry level position that requires NO TRAVEL! We are looking for dedicated ... We collect over 200 million gallons of used motor oil each year and we have the largest re-refinery ...

Clean Harbors

Solvent Process Operator I

Dolton, IL

$25/hr

... the facility. Entry level position that requires NO TRAVEL! We are looking for dedicated ... We collect over 200 million gallons of used motor oil each year and we have the largest re-refinery ...

Clean Harbors

Solvent Process Operator I

Dolton, IL · On-site

$15.14 - $30.29/hr

... the facility. Entry level position that requires NO TRAVEL! We are looking for dedicated ... We collect over 200 million gallons of used motor oil each year and we have the largest re-refinery ...

Clean Harbors

Solvent Process Operator I

Dolton, IL

$25/hr

... the facility. Entry level position that requires NO TRAVEL! We are looking for dedicated ... We collect over 200 million gallons of used motor oil each year and we have the largest re-refinery ...

Onin Staffing

Machine Operator

Walnut Ridge, AR

$16/hr

... entry-level candidates - Affordable health insurance you can actually use, including $5 copays, $5 ... refined crafts. That is why we are so excited to roll up our sleeves and match the right people ...

Kinder Morgan

Operator 12 Entry - Bradshaw

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$18.25 - $24/hr

... refined petroleum products into tankage for temporary storage, involving the operation of both ... Operator 12 Entry Level - New hire - Works under close supervision; must learn the basics and pass ...

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Entry Level Refinery Operator information

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

As of Jul 22, 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% 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 Operator

Entry Level Operator

HollyFrontier

Artesia, NM • On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Basic Function
HF Sinclair Asphalt located in Artesia, NM is seeking an Entry Level Operator. This position is responsible for learning the skills necessary to assist with production and manufacturing of products, daily quality control activities associated with production, tracking and maintaining raw material inventories, meeting shipment and delivery schedules, receipt handling via truck and rail, following the facility housekeeping objectives, ensuring assets are properly maintained, and HollyFrontier EH & S policies are understood and followed under close and constant supervision.
Job Duties
(functions considered essential as defined by ADA)
  • Assists with visual tank gauging to verify automatic systems.
  • Performs general plant cleaning.
  • Assists with maintenance tasks.
  • Assists with opening and closing of valves for production.
  • Loads and unloads trucks and railcars.
  • Assists with paperwork involving basic math skills.
  Special assignments or tasks assigned to the employee by their supervisor, as determined from time to time in their sole and complete discretion.
Experience
A minimum of six months to one year of relevant work experience as it pertains to the job duties listed above is required.
Education Level
A minimum of a High School Diploma or equivalent is required.
Required Skills
Ability to perform basic mathematical calculations and computer skills, mechanically inclined; entry knowledge, understanding, and ability to comply with all Federal, State, Local, and Company regulations, policies, guidelines, and procedures, including the use of tools (hand tools and power tools) and other equipment such as shovels and rakes and operation(s) of forklift, tractor, or man-lift. Required to complete all required certifications and training for job level and show competency in basic tasks under direct supervision while completing classroom and CBT training and expectations. Basic reading and writing skills. Ability to effectively communicate with others, both written and verbal communication.
Work Conditions
Outdoor-based with up to 5% travel by land and air required. Petroleum refinery, warehouse/plant environment, out-of-doors environment, and occasional driver-based environment including but not limited to chemicals, pressure vessels, tanks, rotating equipment, and working in confined spaces. Subject to all temperatures, weather, and varying road conditions. Must be available to work a flexible schedule (e.g., overtime, weekends, and holidays, rotating shifts).
Benefits
HF Sinclair offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the well-being of our employees and their families. Our benefits include, but are not limited to, the following:
  • Medical Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Paid Time-Off
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan with match
  • Educational Reimbursement
  • Parental Bonding Time
  • Employee Discounts
We are committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment, ensuring our employees have the resources needed to thrive professionally and personally. Benefit eligibility is governed by official plan documents, for more details visit Total Rewards.
Physical Requirements
Job conditions require standing, walking, sitting, twisting, stooping, crouching, kneeling, talking or hearing, making visual inspections, making precise hand and finger movements, reaching or grasping, lifting and/or carrying up to 50lbs, pushing and/or pulling up to 50lbs, climbing up to 48ft, ability to operate and drive all assigned company vehicles at company standard insurance rates is essential, valid state drivers license and proof of insurance required, perceiving color differences, wearing personal protective equipment and strenuous physical activity.
Our One HF Sinclair Culture:
At HF Sinclair, we are united through our One HF Sinclair Culture, which is underpinned by our five core values of Safety, Integrity, Teamwork, Ownership and Inclusion. Developed to empower our people, our five core cultural values are at the heart of everything we do and extend to how we engage our stakeholders. These values influence our decisions, shape our behaviors and keep us connected across the entire organization. We maintain a true Safety culture for our employees, communities, environments and customers. Our goal is to make sure everyone returns home safely each day. We have a long-standing commitment to Integrity and ethical behavior and do what is right for our employees, investors, communities and the environment. We encourage employees to Step Up and Stand Out by championing a culture of Teamwork and Ownership. We foster a culture of Inclusion by encouraging diversity of experiences, viewpoints and backgrounds. What makes each of us different, together makes us stronger.
About HF Sinclair Corporation
HF Sinclair Corporation, headquartered in Dallas, Texas, is an independent energy company that produces and markets high-value light products such as gasoline, diesel fuel, jet fuel, renewable diesel and other specialty products. HF Sinclair owns and operates refineries located in Kansas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Wyoming, Washington and Utah and markets its refined products principally in the Southwest U.S., the Rocky Mountains extending into the Pacific Northwest and in other neighboring Plains states. HF Sinclair supplies high-quality fuels to more than 1,500 branded stations and licenses the use of the Sinclair brand at more than 300 additional locations throughout the country. In addition, subsidiaries of HF Sinclair produce and market base oils and other specialized lubricants in the U.S., Canada and the Netherlands, and export products to more than 80 countries. Through its subsidiaries, HF Sinclair produces renewable diesel at two of its facilities in Wyoming and also at its facility in Artesia, New Mexico. HF Sinclair provides petroleum product and crude oil transportation, terminalling, storage and throughput services to its refineries and the petroleum industry.
Equal Opportunity Employer

HF Sinclair Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status or any other prohibited ground of discrimination.

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