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Entry Level Refinery Operator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Aerotek

Shop Labor Entry Level

Frankfort, IL

$14.75 - $19.50/hr

Operate small pencil grinders and other finishing tools to remove burrs and refine part surfaces ... You will work on the production floor alongside approximately 15 other employees while operating as ...

Hotel Lincoln

PT Line Cook

Chicago, IL

$22/hr

As an Entry-Level Line Cook, you'll work alongside experienced chefs and contribute to creating ... Collaborate with the culinary team to develop and refine recipes * Adhere to food safety and ...

Davidson Hospitality Group

PT Line Cook

Chicago, IL

$22/hr

As an Entry-Level Line Cook, you'll work alongside experienced chefs and contribute to creating ... Collaborate with the culinary team to develop and refine recipes * Adhere to food safety and ...

Hotel Lincoln

PT Line Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$22/hr

As an Entry-Level Line Cook, you'll work alongside experienced chefs and contribute to creating ... Collaborate with the culinary team to develop and refine recipes * Adhere to food safety and ...

Hotel Lincoln

PT Line Cook

Chicago, IL · On-site

$22/hr

As an Entry-Level Line Cook, you'll work alongside experienced chefs and contribute to creating ... Collaborate with the culinary team to develop and refine recipes * Adhere to food safety and ...

MSGCU

PartTime Call Center

Plainfield, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Job Summary Entry level position for trainee inspector who will ultimately be able to undertake ... Must be able to work in refineries, terminals, and on-board marine vessels as necessary. * Must ...

All JobsRefinery Operator JobsEntry Level Refinery Operator JobsEntry Level Refinery Operator Jobs in Illinois

Entry Level Refinery Operator information

See Illinois salary details

$11

$16

$20

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

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level refinery operator in Illinois is $16.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $18.41 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?

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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Refinery Operator jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Refinery Operator jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Refinery Operator jobs in Illinois?

For Entry Level Refinery Operator jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Refinery Operator jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Refinery Operator jobs in Illinois are:

Entry Level Refinery Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Refinery Operator job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,201 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

Utility Operator

Job_Listing_459

Lemont, IL

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

LOCAL CANDIDATES ONLY

Founded in 1983 by principal shareholder William I. Koch, Oxbow Carbon LLC ("Oxbow") is a global leader in recycling, marketing, and upgrading of refinery and natural gas coproducts. Oxbow produces and distributes calcined and fuel grade petroleum coke and provides bulk storage and handling services for petroleum coke and other commodities. Leveraging its extensive scale, strong expertise, and leading market positions, Oxbow has established a powerful global sourcing platform supported by superior market intelligence and long-standing relationships with key suppliers and customers. Oxbow's products are essential in the production of aluminum, steel, glass, and cement, while its specialty offerings are integral to a variety of innovative applications, including high-performance plastics, solar panels, electronics, and batteries. Oxbow's continued success and leadership within the industry are attributed to a combination of strong teamwork, innovative uses of technology, and talented employees.

This is an entry-level position within the Operations Department. Utility Operators are responsible for operating tractor trailers and/or front-end loaders to support petcoke handling activities. The role also involves tasks such as shoveling, general plant housekeeping, yard maintenance, and painting. This position reports to the Operations Manager and follows daily instructions accordingly. All work is performed in compliance with plant rules, procedures, and applicable ISO 14001 Environmental requirements.

Job Duties

  • Operation of industrial mobile equipment (tractor trailers, lift trucks, front-end loaders, skid steers, etc.).
  • Plant housekeeping.
  • Barge loading.
  • Other duties as assigned by the Operations Manager or designated personnel.
  • Participation in pre-shift safety and operations meetings on a daily basis.
  • Adherence to all safety policies and procedures.

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