ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Refinery Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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

Pryor, OK · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

This is an amazing opportunity for entry-level candidates to work 1st Shift at $15.00 to $18.00 ... refined crafts. That is why we are so excited to roll up our sleeves and match the right people ...

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 3

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 ...

Kinder Morgan

OPERATOR 12-ENTRY- HARBOR ISL LQT

Seattle, WA · On-site

$20 - $26.25/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 ...

Kinder Morgan

OPERATOR 12-ENTRY- HARBOR ISL LQT

Seattle, WA · On-site

$20 - $26.25/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 ...

Again

Process Technician

Texas City, TX · On-site

You'll help implement and refine operating procedures, participate in process troubleshooting, and ... * Entry level candidates are encouraged to apply * An open-mind and and a positive mindset to ...

Par Pacific Holdings, Inc.

Pumper

Newcastle, WY · On-site

... / Entry Level Operator at a growth-oriented downstream energy company. Reporting to the Shift Supervisor, you will oversee and execute all tank transfers of product throughout the refinery, while ...

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 ...

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 ...

Aerotek

Entry Level Swiss Operator

Saint Paul, MN

Swiss Operator This role offers an excellent opportunity for a developing CNC professional ... Comfort working with both internal and external designers to refine tooling and product designs.

LED FastStart

Loader / Dock Operator

Norco, LA · On-site

Chemical Plant Loader / Dock Operator PSC Group is now hiring full time, entry level Chemical Plant ... refineries, chemical producers, and marine transportation providers. • The work we do makes a ...

LED FastStart

Loader / Dock Operator

Donaldsonville, LA · On-site

Chemical Plant Loader / Dock Operator PSC Group is now hiring full time, entry level Chemical Plant ... We are a leader in product handling and site logistics for refineries, chemical producers, and ...

Par Pacific

Pumper

Newcastle, WY · On-site

Pumper / Entry Level Operator at a growth-oriented downstream energy company. * Reporting to the Shift Supervisor, you will oversee and execute all tank transfers of product throughout the refinery ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsRefinery Operator JobsEntry Level Refinery Operator Jobs

Entry Level Refinery Operator information

See salary details

$12

$17

$21

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

As of Aug 12, 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?

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,327 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Solvent Process Operator I

Clean Harbors

Dolton, IL

$25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

Clean Harbors rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 153 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

43rd of 90 rated recycling and waste

Job description

Clean Harbors Dolton, IL is working an environmentally friendly solvent recycler, is looking to add several Solvent Process Operators to their team! These team members will need to be willing to learn to complete all assigned tasks such as distillation, filtration, and blending within units at the facility. Entry level position that requires NO TRAVEL! We are looking for dedicated individuals with a flexible schedule to work night shift. This is a unique opportunity to learn interesting Chemical Processes - company provided training!
 
Shift: Days 7am-7pm 3/2 Split schedule
 
Pay: $25 
  • Health and Safety is our #1 priority, and we live it 3-6-5!
  • Competitive wages with overtime opportunities.
  • Comprehensive health benefits coverage after 30 days of full-time employment
  • Group 401K with company matching component.
  • Opportunities for growth and development for all the stages of your career
  • Generous paid time off, company paid training and tuition reimbursement.
  • Positive and safe work environments

What does it take to work at Clean Harbors?

  • High School diploma or equivalent required;
  • Must be 18 years or older;
  • 1+ Years of related experience;
  • Fork lift experience preferred (Not Required);
  • Ability to use computer;
  • Ability to lift 50 or more pounds;

Clean Harbors, a Clean Harbors company, has a commitment to excellence deeply rooted in a strong sense of tradition. Our entire business model revolves around keeping North American businesses green. We generate more than $1.2 billion in annual revenue as a world-class environmental service organization and market leader in industrial hazardous waste management, parts-cleaning technology, and oil re-refining. We collect over 200 million gallons of used motor oil each year and we have the largest re-refinery capacity in North America allowing us to re-refine more than 150 million gallons each year.

Every day, we help our customers resolve their waste management needs and reduce their carbon footprint. PROTECTION. CHOICES. PEOPLE. MAKE GREEN WORK.

Clean Harbors is an equal opportunity employer.

Clean Harbors is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact ect@cleanharbors.com or 1-844-922-5547.

Clean Harbors and its subsidiaries are a Military & Veteran friendly company.

Clean Harbors is committed to complying with applicable pay transparency laws and ensuring fair and equitable compensation. The posted salary range reflects the minimum and maximum target for this role. Final compensation may vary based on factors such as location, experience, skills, and business needs. In addition to the base salary, some roles may be eligible for bonus or incentive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package.

#LI-CS1

*SK

Key Responsibilities:
  • Ensuring that Health and Safety is the number one priority by complying with all safe work practices, policies, and processes and acting in a safe manner at all times.
 
You will be trained on the following:
 
  • Offloads inbound tankers and performs distillation instructed by the laboratory.
  • Sampling of trucks to laboratory.
  • Completes daily checklist as required for proper operation of the Distillation units.
  • Assures unit has daily maintenance duties performed and communicates any problems or issues with the Distillation units immediately upon discovery.
  • Assures Distillation units are never operated in an unsafe manner or in a manner which is not consistent with Standard Operating Procedures.
  • Ensure that the processing unit is operating according to the issued guidelines and process specifications.
  • Decants material pumping off excess sludge, also does a washout of still between batches to ensure no cross contamination.
  • Reviews all applicable SOP's and scores satisfactorily on quizzes.
  • Completes and submits all associated paperwork as required for waste tracking movements, as well as scanning applications.
  • Ensures that work meets all applicable Health and Safety Standard Operating Procedures.
  • Ensures, understands and has ownership for area specific permit required compliance standards.
  • Responsible for maintaining a clean work environment.
  • Maintain accurate Logs / run sheets.
  • Monitor tank levels while in process using gauges and PLC monitoring equipment checking high level alarms and pumps.
  • Understands Clean Compliance Standard.
  • Performs other duties and tasks as assigned from time to time by management and will be required by the needs of the Clean Harbors business.

What Clean Harbors employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Clean Harbors logo

About Clean Harbors

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Clean Harbors is North America’s leading provider of environmental and industrial services. The Company serves a diverse customer base, including a majority of Fortune 500 companies. Its customer base spans a number of industries, including chemical, and manufacturing, as well as numerous government agencies. These customers rely on Clean Harbors to deliver a broad range of services such as end-to-end hazardous waste management, emergency spill response, industrial cleaning and maintenance, and recycling services. Through its Safety-Kleen subsidiary, Clean Harbors also is North America’s largest re-refiner and recycler of used oil and a leading provider of parts washers and environmental services to commercial, industrial and automotive customers. Founded in 1980 and based in Massachusetts, Clean Harbors operates throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico.

Industry

Environmental consulting services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Norwell, MA, US

View All Clean Harbors Jobs

Apply