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Entry Level Refinery Operator Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

HF Sinclair

Bulk Operator

Joshua, TX · On-site

... Operator is an entry-level position responsible for the accurate blending, processing and ... HF Sinclair owns and operates refineries located in Kansas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Wyoming ...

HollyFrontier

Bulk Operator

Joshua, TX · On-site

... Operator is an entry-level position responsible for the accurate blending, processing and ... HF Sinclair owns and operates refineries located in Kansas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Wyoming ...

HF Sinclair

Bulk Operator

Joshua, TX

... Operator is an entry-level position responsible for the accurate blending, processing and ... HF Sinclair owns and operates refineries located in Kansas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Wyoming ...

HF Sinclair

Bulk Operator

Joshua, TX · On-site

... Operator is an entry-level position responsible for the accurate blending, processing and ... HF Sinclair owns and operates refineries located in Kansas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Wyoming ...

GHD Group

Entry-Level Environmental Technician

Borger, TX · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

Majority of work will be performed in a refinery environment. * Generate litigation quality field ... Ability to analyze field readings, data, and operating parameters to optimize system operations Why ...

GHD

Entry-Level Environmental Technician

Borger, TX · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

Majority of work will be performed in a refinery environment. * Generate litigation quality field ... Ability to analyze field readings, data, and operating parameters to optimize system operations Why ...

White Lodging

Entry Level Cook - The Yacht Club

Austin, TX · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

... operating premium hotels, rooftop bars, and restaurants across top U.S. cities. This entry-level ... Yacht Club anchors the hotel's ground floor, offering a refined yet approachable take on coastal ...

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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 Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level refinery operator in Texas is $16.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.57 and $17.69 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 Texas?

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

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

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

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

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

What cities in Texas are hiring for Entry Level Refinery Operator jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most Entry Level Refinery Operator job openings:

Entry Level Refinery Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Refinery Operator job openings in Texas as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 53% Full Time, 43% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,844 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

Refinery Operator Trainee - Three Rivers

Three Rivers, TX • On-site

Valero
Oil and Gas Extraction • 5 - 10K employees
Learn more about Valeroexternal

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Valero rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 72 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

The refinery operator is responsible for maintaining product quality in a safe manner. Typical job duties may include performing visual rounds for assigned area, assessing equipment operation, taking instrument readings, communicating with console operator, supervision, and other refinery personnel, preparing equipment for scheduled maintenance, performing preventative maintenance, performing basic instrument and equipment troubleshooting to determine if technician support is required, making equipment adjustments to optimize performance, maintaining housekeeping for common and assigned areas, and complying with all environmental and safety procedures.  This position is hourly nonexempt status, which means you are eligible for overtime pay.

Upon hire, operators will serve on the Emergency Response Team for a minimum three year period.

Please click on the following link to learn more about the daily tasks of an operator in a Valero refinery: Realistic Job Preview

Valero conducts a comprehensive, on-the-job training program designed to provide new employees a strong foundation of knowledge and skills that are necessary for success as a Valero Operator. This required 10-week, instructor led program includes multiple content modules, including math, pumps, heat exchangers, operator duties, and so forth. Because mastering this content is critical to future job success, knowledge proficiency assessments are incorporated throughout the modules. It is required that participants successfully complete these assessments; as such, failure to pass a specific test three times or a total of four test failures throughout the training program will result in the termination of employment. This training program will prepare individuals for the continuous learning environment that is essential for success.

  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • Must have the ability to legally work in the US.
  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Refinery or chemical process operator experience preferred.
  • Associate degree in process operations preferred.
  • Emergency Response experience preferred.
  • Able and willing to work on-site, in-person at the Valero Three Rivers Refinery, required.

Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications for the position may be invited to take on-line assessments. Communications regarding the assessments will be delivered via email. Be sure to check your spam and junk mailboxes for these communications as they are system generated.

Valero's employees are the heart of its success, and there is a reason why the company is an employer of choice in the fuels manufacturing and marketing industry. It's not just the excellent benefits package, or the opportunities for personal growth, it's also the caring and committed culture of the organization that makes everyone feel like they're truly part of a team. For more information, visit Valero.com.

Valero is an EEO Employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to legally protected status, including race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran or any other status protected by applicable federal, state or local laws.

Please be advised, if you are viewing this position on a website that lists an estimated salary rate/range, it was not provided by Valero.  Valero's market specific salary rate/range will be provided during the recruiting process and tends to be higher than what is estimated by such websites. 

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