Hydrocracking catalysts * Hydrotreating and desulfurization catalysts * Define and execute technology roadmaps, performance targets, and product evolution strategies aligned with business objectives
Hydrocracking catalysts * Hydrotreating and desulfurization catalysts * Define and execute technology roadmaps, performance targets, and product evolution strategies aligned with business objectives
... Hydrocracking Process Technology Fluid Bed Conversion Design Thermal Fluid Bed Process Technology Sulfur Recovery or Tailgas Clean-up Technology Adsorber Separations Technology Steam Cracking ...
... Hydrocracking Process Technology Fluid Bed Conversion Design Thermal Fluid Bed Process Technology Sulfur Recovery or Tailgas Clean-up Technology Adsorber Separations Technology Steam Cracking ...
... Hydrocracking Process Technology Fluid Bed Conversion Design Thermal Fluid Bed Process Technology Sulfur Recovery or Tailgas Clean-up Technology Adsorber Separations Technology Steam Cracking ...
... Hydrocracking Process Technology Fluid Bed Conversion Design Thermal Fluid Bed Process Technology Sulfur Recovery or Tailgas Clean-up Technology Adsorber Separations Technology Steam Cracking ...
... Hydrocracking Process Technology Fluid Bed Conversion Design Thermal Fluid Bed Process Technology Sulfur Recovery or Tailgas Clean-up Technology Adsorber Separations Technology Steam Cracking ...
... Hydrocracking Process Technology Fluid Bed Conversion Design Thermal Fluid Bed Process Technology Sulfur Recovery or Tailgas Clean-up Technology Adsorber Separations Technology Steam Cracking ...
Sr Engineer I, Mechanical, Lake Charles Refinery
$141K - $172K/yr
Refinery facilities include crude distilling, naphtha reforming, fluid catalytic cracking, alkylation, hydrocracking, hydrodesulfurization and delayed coking units. Facilities also include a ...
Sr Engineer I, Mechanical, Lake Charles Refinery
$141K - $172K/yr
Refinery facilities include crude distilling, naphtha reforming, fluid catalytic cracking, alkylation, hydrocracking, hydrodesulfurization and delayed coking units. Facilities also include a ...
VP, Engineering
Boston, MA · On-site
$230K - $255K/yr
Familiarity with fuel upgrading technologies (e.g., hydrocracking, isomerization, naphtha upgrading) or closely related refining processes * Strong ability to operate at both system-level ...
Quick apply
VP, Engineering
Boston, MA · On-site
$230K - $255K/yr
Familiarity with fuel upgrading technologies (e.g., hydrocracking, isomerization, naphtha upgrading) or closely related refining processes * Strong ability to operate at both system-level ...
Sr Engineer I, Fixed Equipment, Wood River Refinery
Roxana, IL · On-site
$141K - $172K/yr
Refinery facilities include crude distilling, naphtha reforming, fluid catalytic cracking, alkylation, hydrocracking, hydrodesulfurization and delayed coking units. The refinery processes a mixture ...
Sr Engineer I, Fixed Equipment, Wood River Refinery
Roxana, IL · On-site
$141K - $172K/yr
Refinery facilities include crude distilling, naphtha reforming, fluid catalytic cracking, alkylation, hydrocracking, hydrodesulfurization and delayed coking units. The refinery processes a mixture ...
Refining Process Engineer
Billings, MT · On-site
Crude Distillation, Fluid Coking, Alkylation, Reforming, Hydroprocessing, Hydrocracking, Fluid Catalytic Cracking, Light Ends Distillation preferred * Willingness to provide off-hours support of ...
Refining Process Engineer
Billings, MT · On-site
Crude Distillation, Fluid Coking, Alkylation, Reforming, Hydroprocessing, Hydrocracking, Fluid Catalytic Cracking, Light Ends Distillation preferred * Willingness to provide off-hours support of ...
Hydrocracking catalysts * Hydrotreating and desulfurization catalysts * Define and execute technology roadmaps, performance targets, and product evolution strategies aligned with business objectives
Hydrocracking catalysts * Hydrotreating and desulfurization catalysts * Define and execute technology roadmaps, performance targets, and product evolution strategies aligned with business objectives
Advanced Manufacturing Engineering - Baton Rouge
Baton Rouge, LA · On-site
$70K - $94K/yr
... Hydrocracking Process Technology Fluid Bed Conversion Design Thermal Fluid Bed Process Technology Sulfur Recovery or Tailgas Clean-up Technology Adsorber Separations Technology Steam Cracking ...
Advanced Manufacturing Engineering - Baton Rouge
Baton Rouge, LA · On-site
$70K - $94K/yr
... Hydrocracking Process Technology Fluid Bed Conversion Design Thermal Fluid Bed Process Technology Sulfur Recovery or Tailgas Clean-up Technology Adsorber Separations Technology Steam Cracking ...
Advanced Manufacturing Engineering - Baton Rouge
Baton Rouge, LA · On-site
$62K - $83K/yr
... Hydrocracking Process Technology Fluid Bed Conversion Design Thermal Fluid Bed Process Technology Sulfur Recovery or Tailgas Clean-up Technology Adsorber Separations Technology Steam Cracking ...
Advanced Manufacturing Engineering - Baton Rouge
Baton Rouge, LA · On-site
$62K - $83K/yr
... Hydrocracking Process Technology Fluid Bed Conversion Design Thermal Fluid Bed Process Technology Sulfur Recovery or Tailgas Clean-up Technology Adsorber Separations Technology Steam Cracking ...
Experience with one or more refinery processes (e.g., crude/vacuum distillation, reforming, hydrotreating, alkylation, fluid catalytic cracking, hydrocracking, sulfur plant) * Experience in process ...
Experience with one or more refinery processes (e.g., crude/vacuum distillation, reforming, hydrotreating, alkylation, fluid catalytic cracking, hydrocracking, sulfur plant) * Experience in process ...
Sr Engineer I, Mechanical, Lake Charles Refinery
Westlake, LA · On-site
$141K - $172K/yr
Refinery facilities include crude distilling, naphtha reforming, fluid catalytic cracking, alkylation, hydrocracking, hydrodesulfurization and delayed coking units. Facilities also include a ...
Sr Engineer I, Mechanical, Lake Charles Refinery
Westlake, LA · On-site
$141K - $172K/yr
Refinery facilities include crude distilling, naphtha reforming, fluid catalytic cracking, alkylation, hydrocracking, hydrodesulfurization and delayed coking units. Facilities also include a ...
Sr Engineer, Advanced Process Control, Wood River Refinery
Roxana, IL · On-site
$141K - $172K/yr
Experience with one or more refinery processes (e.g., crude/vacuum distillation, reforming, hydrotreating, alkylation, fluid catalytic cracking, hydrocracking, sulfur plant) * Experience in process ...
Sr Engineer, Advanced Process Control, Wood River Refinery
Roxana, IL · On-site
$141K - $172K/yr
Experience with one or more refinery processes (e.g., crude/vacuum distillation, reforming, hydrotreating, alkylation, fluid catalytic cracking, hydrocracking, sulfur plant) * Experience in process ...
R&D Process Engineer
$140K - $155K/yr
Direct experience with gasification, oxy-combustion, slag-forming combustion, FCC, coker, hydrocracking, refractory-lined reactors, ash- or solids-handling, or other high-temperature, high-pressure ...
R&D Process Engineer
$140K - $155K/yr
Direct experience with gasification, oxy-combustion, slag-forming combustion, FCC, coker, hydrocracking, refractory-lined reactors, ash- or solids-handling, or other high-temperature, high-pressure ...
Sr Engineer I, Fixed Equipment, Wood River Refinery
Roxana, IL · On-site
$141K - $172K/yr
Refinery facilities include crude distilling, naphtha reforming, fluid catalytic cracking, alkylation, hydrocracking, hydrodesulfurization and delayed coking units. The refinery processes a mixture ...
Sr Engineer I, Fixed Equipment, Wood River Refinery
Roxana, IL · On-site
$141K - $172K/yr
Refinery facilities include crude distilling, naphtha reforming, fluid catalytic cracking, alkylation, hydrocracking, hydrodesulfurization and delayed coking units. The refinery processes a mixture ...
Specialist III, Scheduling, Lake Charles Refinery
Westlake, LA · On-site
$127K - $156K/yr
Refinery facilities include crude distilling, naphtha reforming, fluid catalytic cracking, alkylation, hydrocracking, hydrodesulfurization and delayed coking units. Facilities also include a ...
Specialist III, Scheduling, Lake Charles Refinery
Westlake, LA · On-site
$127K - $156K/yr
Refinery facilities include crude distilling, naphtha reforming, fluid catalytic cracking, alkylation, hydrocracking, hydrodesulfurization and delayed coking units. Facilities also include a ...
Refining Process Engineer
Billings, MT · On-site
$102K - $132K/yr
Crude Distillation, Fluid Coking, Alkylation, Reforming, Hydroprocessing, Hydrocracking, Fluid Catalytic Cracking, Light Ends Distillation preferred * Willingness to provide off-hours support of ...
Quick apply
Refining Process Engineer
Billings, MT · On-site
$102K - $132K/yr
Crude Distillation, Fluid Coking, Alkylation, Reforming, Hydroprocessing, Hydrocracking, Fluid Catalytic Cracking, Light Ends Distillation preferred * Willingness to provide off-hours support of ...
Hydrocracking information
See salary details
$36K - $45.8K
2% of jobs
$45.8K - $55.5K
2% of jobs
$55.5K - $65.3K
12% of jobs
$65.3K - $75.1K
4% of jobs
$75.1K - $84.9K
3% of jobs
$90.6K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$84.9K - $94.6K
3% of jobs
$94.6K - $104.4K
3% of jobs
$104.4K - $114.2K
1% of jobs
$114.2K - $124K
4% of jobs
$124K - $133.7K
0% of jobs
The median wage is $136K / yr.
$133.7K - $143.5K
65% of jobs
$36K
$122.1K
$143.5K
How much do hydrocracking jobs pay per year?
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Hydrocracking position, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Hydrocracking Operator or Technician, you need a strong background in chemical or process engineering, experience with refinery operations, and a solid understanding of hydrocracking unit processes. Proficiency in using process control systems (such as DCS/SCADA), safety protocols, and relevant certifications like OSHA or HAZWOPER are typically required. Excellent problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help professionals respond effectively to operational issues and coordinate with cross-functional teams. These abilities are essential for maintaining plant safety, ensuring product quality, and achieving operational efficiency in a high-stakes industrial environment.
What is a Hydrocracking job?
A Hydrocracking job involves operating and maintaining hydrocracking units in a refinery, which break down heavy hydrocarbons into lighter, more valuable products like gasoline and diesel. Responsibilities include monitoring equipment, adjusting process conditions, and ensuring safety and efficiency. Operators work with engineers and technicians to optimize performance and troubleshoot issues. This role requires knowledge of refinery operations, chemical processes, and safety protocols.
What are the main challenges faced by professionals working in hydrocracking operations?
Hydrocracking professionals often work in environments where safety and precision are paramount due to the complexity of chemical reactions and high-pressure equipment involved. Common challenges include troubleshooting process upsets, responding quickly to alarms, and minimizing downtime while adhering to strict environmental and safety regulations. The role can also involve shift work and coordinating with maintenance, engineering, and quality control teams. However, overcoming these challenges can be highly rewarding, offering opportunities for skill development and advancement within the refinery or petrochemical industry.
What engineering jobs pay $500,000?

Full-time
Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO
Posted 7 days ago
KBR rating
8.3
Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
94th of 352 rated engineering
Job description
Title:
Chief Technical leader - Refining Catalyst DevelopmentKBR Sustainable Technology Solutions (STS) provides holistic and value-added solutions across the entire asset life cycle. These include world-class licensed process technologies, differentiated advisory services, deep technical domain expertise, energy transition solutions, high-end design capabilities, and smart solutions to optimize planned and operating assets.
KBR Technology specializes in developing and licensing energy-efficient and cost-effective process technologies that provide economic and technical advantages to global oil and gas and petrochemical companies. With thousands of successful projects worldwide, KBR combines its technology expertise with full engineering, procurement and construction services to help clients maximize the value of their assets. KBR Technology offers a breadth of technology licenses, catalysts, and process equipment for Ammonia and Fertilizer, Synthesis Gas / Syngas, Olefins, Coal Gasification, Refining, Hydrogen and Organic Chemicals. Serving our customers through diverse business segments, we offer challenging assignments on some of the world's largest and most complex projects where our clients have come to value us because We Deliver
KBR is seeking a Chief Technical leader for Refining Catalyst Development responsible for all phases of catalyst commercialization including R&D, manufacturing and customer support. Work will include coordination of cross-functional groups within KBR as well as partner organizations and personnel. Position will be full-time located in Houston, Texas (No remote functioning acceptable).
Functional job responsibilities will include but are not limited to:
Provide global technical leadership for refining catalyst technologies across research, development, scale up, commercialization, and lifecycle support
Act as Chief Technical Authority for revenue generating refining catalysts, including:
FCC catalysts (including ZSM 5 based and enhanced performance formulations)
Hydrocracking catalysts
Hydrotreating and desulfurization catalysts
Define and execute technology roadmaps, performance targets, and product evolution strategies aligned with business objectives
Lead catalyst R&D programs, including formulation development, testing, pilot evaluation, and commercial qualification
Support catalyst manufacturing strategy, ensuring robustness, quality, and consistency from lab to commercial production
Serve as senior technical interface with customers, providing support for trials, performance optimization, troubleshooting, and technical reviews
Lead and support commercialization of next generation ("blue ocean") technologies
Translate early-stage concepts into commercial products, including pilot programs, demonstrations, and first of a kind applications
Support licensing, proposals, and business development, providing deep technical differentiation and credibility
Collaborate cross functionally with R&D, manufacturing, licensing, sales, and project execution teams globally
Coordinate with external partners, suppliers, and research organizations as required
Provide technical input to IP strategy, including patents, trade secrets, and freedom to operate assessments
Mentor and develop senior technical staff, strengthening long term technical capability within KBR
Represent KBR as a technical expert in customer meetings, industry forums, and technical conferences
Travel domestically and internationally to support customers, commercialization activities, and business growth initiatives
Required Education, Experience, & Skills:
Master's degree in chemical engineering
15+ years CURRENT experience in Refining Process Catalyst research and manufacturing (or equivalent)
Ability to work in cross-functional and multi-cultural environments
Strong English verbal, writing and reading communication skills
Must have the ability to clearly convey technical concepts and principles in both verbal and written communications to clients, peers and KBR management
Must be willing and available to travel 25-50% domestic and international, as needed
Preferred Education & Skills:
20+ years of experience
Background in Refining and experience in Petrochemical processes
Multi language capabilities including Korean and Mandarin preferred
PhD in Chemical Engineering
Decarbonization - Energy Transition - Sustainability
KBR Benefits
KBR offers a selection of competitive lifestyle benefits which could include 401K plan with company match, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, flexible spending account, disability, paid time off, or flexible work schedule. We support career advancement through professional training and development.
Click here to learn more: KBR Benefits
Belong, Connect and Grow at KBR
At KBR, we are passionate about our people and our Zero Harm culture. These inform all that we do and are at the heart of our commitment to, and ongoing journey toward being a People First company. That commitment is central to our team of team's philosophy and fosters an environment where everyone can Belong, Connect and Grow. We Deliver - Together.
KBR is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.
About KBR
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
At KBR, we partner with government and industry clients to provide purposeful and comprehensive solutions with an emphasis on efficiency and safety. With a full portfolio of services, proprietary technologies and expertise, our employees are ready to handle projects and missions from planning and design to sustainability and maintenance. Whether at the bottom of the ocean or in outer space, our clients trust us to deliver the impossible on a daily basis.
Industry
It services
Company size
10,000+ Employees
Headquarters location
Houston, TX, US
Year founded
1998