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Entry Level Refinery Operator Jobs in Oklahoma (NOW HIRING)

Callout CR/DR Technician

Tulsa, OK · On-site

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

Proficiency in operating CR/DR systems, including familiarity with imaging software and analysis ... Minimum 1-2 years of experience in industrial CR/DR or NDT (entry-level candidates with relevant ...

Callout CR/DR Technician

Tulsa, OK · On-site

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

Proficiency in operating CR/DR systems, including familiarity with imaging software and analysis ... Minimum 1-2 years of experience in industrial CR/DR or NDT (entry-level candidates with relevant ...

Callout CR/DR Technician

Tulsa, OK · On-site

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

Proficiency in operating CR/DR systems, including familiarity with imaging software and analysis ... Minimum 1-2 years of experience in industrial CR/DR or NDT (entry-level candidates with relevant ...

Entry Level Refinery Operator information

See Oklahoma salary details

$11

$16

$19

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

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level refinery operator in Oklahoma is $16.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $17.55 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 Oklahoma?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Entry Level Refinery Operator job openings in Oklahoma as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,542 per year, or $16.1 per hour.

Catalyst Technician (Entry Level)

Broken Arrow, OK • On-site

Stronghold Specialty, Ltd
10K+ employees

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Cat-Spec, Ltd. a Stronghold Company is looking for Catalyst Technicians to join the family. All new hires would be trained on the job and in the classroom with excellent growth opportunities. Catalyst Technicians will perform critical reactor and tower maintenance services to refineries and petrochemical facilities nationwide. Assignments are closely supervised and designed to further develop employee job knowledge and abilities. We want this to be more than just a job - we want to give you all the tools to have a successful career at Cat-Spec, Ltd.. This position is considered part-time due the project based nature of the job.

The position of a Catalyst Technician "Tech B" is responsible for day-to-day activities performed in client facilities; both inert and non-inert confined space entry atmosphere and to perform work toward its projects’ goal of Safety, Quality, Productivity and Service. A Tech B is will perform work as required to maximize the quality of the Company while maintaining the specified expectations of the client and ensure safe working environment while performing work. A Tech B will conduct all Company business in accordance with Company policies and procedures and maintain professionalism throughout all business dealings, both internally and externally.


Essential Functions

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Team member for all rescue operations.
  • Work in immediately dangerous to life and health (IDLH) confined space entry conditions.
  • Operate and maintain all company owned or rented vehicles in a professional manner.
  • Maintain a clean environment and report unusual findings in vessel such as fused catalyst or hot spots, etc. to Supervisor.
  • Unload and load tubular vessels.
  • Adhere to all Quality Assurance and Quality Control requirements.
  • Load catalyst bed.
  • Assist with the cleaning and correct loading of equipment and trailers.
  • Support the Supervisors by keeping work areas clear and free of obstructions.
  • Learn the proper function and usage of the Life Support equipment and its safety factors.
  • Wear the Life Support equipment on non-inert confined space entries and gain experience on its usage and safety for future growth and advancement.
  • Operate the retrieval devised and multi-gas portable detectors.
  • Monitor the surrounding and dangers associated with entering confined spaces.
  • Follow all Company Quality Control/Quality Assurance procedures and processes.
  • Skills necessary to perform confined space entries (non-inert).
  • Maintain poise and focus under time constraint and adverse conditions.
  • Attend and complete trainings as required by the Company and client.
  • Pass all required drug/alcohol testing and background requirements.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

Work Environment

This job operates in a petrochechemical / refinery environment. Exposure to cold working conditions during winter months and hot working conditions during the summer months. Exposure to noise, workers must wear protecting hearing equipment or frequently shout in order to be heard above ambient noise level. In an emergency situation, exposure to hazardous chemicals may occur and the use of a respirator is required. All employees will be required to be fit tested for the various respirators used as well as the ability to successfully pass a pulmonary function test (PFT).

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
The position of a Tech B can be extremely physical at times. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required, and for long periods of time to bend, stoop, walk, climb, squat, reach, kneel, push/pull, stand, sit, hand strength and dexterity. A Tech B will frequently lift up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift more than 51 pounds. Must be able to work in confined spaces. Must be able to work at heights and be able to climb ladders and stairways and work off platforms. Move about on hands and feet, bending body downward and forward bending leg and spine- working in a bent over position. Ability to verbally communicate alarms or warnings clearly, concisely, loudly and quickly. Clearly and quickly hear or otherwise sense alarms or warning and take appropriate action, maintain equilibrium to prevent falling when moving, walking, standing, kneeling or crouching- particularly on narrow, uneven, irregular, slippery surfaces, going up and down ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps, poles or other objects using hands, arms, feet or legs. Sensing physical attributes such as size, shape, temperature, texture or sharpness of an object by touching. Must possess foot agility and dexterity- operating pedals, foot controls, kick bars and other similar tasks that require foot or toe motion. Grasp, grip and/or apply pressure to an object with the fingers, palm, holding an object in the hand. Lift, raise or lower objects in a vertical direction, particularly heavy or bulky objects. Move objects backwards, forward, in or out in a horizontal direction, particularly heavy or bulky objects. Pulling, exerting a steady backward, downward, upward or outward force against an object- jerking, wrenching, stretching, towing, drawing, dragging or tugging objects in sustained motion. Reaching, extending the hand (s) and/or arm(s) in any direction. See, read, write and understand communication including directions, instructions and warning signs. Ability to see and distinguish colors, to visually distinguish shapes and patterns, to accurately sense distances (depth perception), to accurately see objects and detect motion and wide angles (peripheral vision).

Position Type/ Expected Hours of Work

This is a project- based position. Typical days and hours of work are variable/ project dependent. Over-time work is common and may be required as job duties demand.

Travel

Travel is expected. Extensive travel throughout U.S. and overnight stay for extended periods of time may be required of this position.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement

Stronghold is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. Stronghold is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression, or any other characteristic that is protected by federal, state or local laws.


Required Education and Experience

  • High school diploma or GED or equivalent work experience.
  • Posession of a valid TWIC 
  • Possession of a valid Driver's License
  • Clean Background Check
  • Ability to pass a drug screen (breath, urine, follicle)

Preferred Education and Experience

  • Experience in the petrochemical / refinery industry. First Aid and CPR trained.