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Oil Refinery Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Perdue Farms

Oil Refinery Operator

Salisbury, MD

$21 - $31.50/hr

As an Oil Refinery Operator, you will operate and monitor refining, bleaching, deodorization, and hydrogenation processes while supporting safe and efficient production operations. You will handle ...

Perdue Farms

Oil Refinery Operator

Salisbury, MD · On-site

$21 - $31.50/hr

As an Oil Refinery Operator, you will operate and monitor refining, bleaching, deodorization, and hydrogenation processes while supporting safe and efficient production operations. You will handle ...

Perdue Farms

Oil Refinery Operator

Salisbury, MD · On-site

$21 - $31.50/hr

As an Oil Refinery Operator, you will operate and monitor refining, bleaching, deodorization, and hydrogenation processes while supporting safe and efficient production operations. You will handle ...

AAK

REFINERY OPERATOR IA

Louisville, KY · On-site

REFINERY OPERATOR IA-Louisville, KY Join our Global Team at our Louisville, KY Manufacturing ... We specialize in sustainably sourced plant-based oils that are used by major manufacturers in ...

EcoLube Recovery

Refinery Operator

Portland, OR · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

We specialize in the re-refining of used oil into base oils for new motor oils, hydraulic systems, and more. As a Refinery Operator, you will be an integral part of our operations, working alongside ...

ASRC

Refinery Operator Trainee

North Pole, AK

... oil for the Interior and Northern Alaska communities. We operate our businesses reliably and ... Refinery Operator Trainee is an hourly position, 7 - 12-hour shifts on and 7 days off working a ...

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How much do oil refinery operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for oil refinery operator in the United States is $22.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $24.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Oil Refinery Operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Oil Refinery Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical systems, chemistry, safety protocols, and typically a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with distributed control systems (DCS), process monitoring tools, and safety certifications such as OSHA or HAZWOPER is often required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork make operators stand out on the job. These abilities are crucial for maintaining efficient, safe refinery operations and preventing costly or hazardous incidents.

What are some typical challenges Oil Refinery Operators face on the job?

Oil Refinery Operators often encounter challenges such as managing equipment malfunctions, responding quickly to process upsets, and maintaining rigorous safety and environmental standards. These roles require alertness and the ability to adapt to changing operating conditions, sometimes during long or rotating shifts. Operators must also stay up to date with evolving technology and regulations, which may involve ongoing training. Working closely with maintenance teams, engineers, and other operators helps effectively address these challenges and keep plant operations running smoothly.

What does an Oil Refinery Operator do?

An Oil Refinery Operator monitors and controls equipment used in refining crude oil into useful products like gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel. They regulate temperature, pressure, and flow rates, ensuring the process runs safely and efficiently. Operators conduct routine inspections, troubleshoot issues, and follow strict safety procedures to prevent accidents. The role requires attention to detail, technical knowledge, and the ability to respond quickly to any system abnormalities.

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What cities are hiring for Oil Refinery Operator jobs? Cities with the most Oil Refinery Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Oil Refinery Operator jobs? The most popular types of Oil Refinery Operator jobs are:
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Oil Refinery Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Oil Refinery Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,216 per year, or $22.2 per hour.
Oil Refinery Operator

Oil Refinery Operator

Perdue Farms

Salisbury, MD

$21 - $31.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago

Perdue Farms rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 97 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

268th of 395 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

Perdue AgriBusiness is an international agricultural products and services company that handles agricultural commodities and a diverse portfolio of products and businesses. It is part of Perdue Farms, a fourth-generation, family-owned food and agricultural business deeply rooted in tradition yet with a forward-thinking mindset. We believe that success starts with our people, and our culture is built on a foundation of teamwork, integrity, and respect, where every voice matters and everyone is encouraged to contribute to our shared goals. We are dedicated to creating a supportive, inclusive environment where associates feel valued and inspired to make an impact, both within the company and in the communities we serve. From promoting growth and development to prioritizing work-life balance, we’re committed to helping our team members thrive. That's Perdue.

Summary

Play a hands-on role in producing high quality edible oil products. As an Oil Refinery Operator, you will operate and monitor refining, bleaching, deodorization, and hydrogenation processes while supporting safe and efficient production operations. You will handle material movement using forklifts and other mobile equipment, load out finished products, perform routine operator maintenance, and maintain sanitation standards within the refinery. This role is ideal for safety focused individuals who enjoy working with industrial equipment, supporting production from start to finish, and contributing directly to operational success.

This position has a target wage of $21.00 - $31.50 per hour, based on shift, experience and qualifications with annual bonus available (variable depending on performance). Overtime may be available.

In addition to hourly wages, Perdue offers a competitive benefits package, including medical/Rx, 401(k) with employer match after 1 year, critical illness, accident insurance, dental, vison, life insurance, optional group life insurance, short-term and long-term disability protection, flexible spending accounts and paid time off.

Principal Essential Duties & Responsibilities

  • Operate forklift, track mobile, pallet jack and tractor/trailer to load, unload and move supplies.
  • Operate refining, bleaching and deodorization production process.
  • Operate the hydrogenation production process.
  • Load out refined edible oil.
  • Perform general labor, housekeeping and sanitation of the oil refinery.
  • Perform routine operator maintenance on refinery equipment.
  • Perform all work within the safety guidelines established by local, state, and federal agencies as well as company policies.
  • Perform other tasks as assigned.

Minimum Education and Experience

  • Reading, writing, math and analytical skills.
  • Lift truck license.
  • Understanding of Team Management.

Perdue Farms Inc. is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

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