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Oil Refinery Operator Trainee Jobs in California

Process Operator Trainee PBF Energy Inc. (NYSE:PBF) is one of the largest independent refiners in ... oil refineries and related facilities. We are a growing organization seeking talented Process ...

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Refinery Superintendent

Newark, CA · On-site

$124K - $160K/yr

... oils, starches, sweeteners, cocoa and chocolate. Job Purpose and Impact The Refinery Superintendent will provide strategic operational oversight for assigned production and operating process for ...

Refinery Superintendent

Newark, CA · On-site

$124K - $160K/yr

... oils, starches, sweeteners, cocoa and chocolate. Job Purpose and Impact The Refinery Superintendent will provide strategic operational oversight for assigned production and operating process for ...

Refinery Superintendent

Newark, CA · On-site

$124K - $160K/yr

... oils, starches, sweeteners, cocoa and chocolate. Job Purpose and Impact The Refinery Superintendent will provide strategic operational oversight for assigned production and operating process for ...

Chemical Process Engineer

Carson, CA · On-site

$107 - $184/hr

Chemical Process Engineer - Must have Gas/Oil Refinery Experience Job Summary The Los Angeles ... Interact and communicate with Board Operators daily. * Participate in Alarm rationalization.

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Oil Refinery Operator Trainee information

See California salary details

$25.2K

$43K

$62.7K

How much do oil refinery operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for oil refinery operator trainee in California is $42,960.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32,600.00 and $50,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an oil refinery operator trainee?

An Oil Refinery Operator Trainee is an entry-level position where individuals learn to monitor and control refinery processes that convert crude oil into usable products like gasoline and diesel. Trainees work under experienced operators to understand equipment operation, safety procedures, and regulatory compliance. The role involves adjusting controls, troubleshooting issues, and maintaining efficiency in refinery units. It requires attention to detail, strong problem-solving skills, and a commitment to safety. Over time, trainees gain the experience needed to become full-fledged refinery operators.

What does an oil refinery operator trainee do?

As an Oil Refinery Operator Trainee, your typical day involves closely monitoring equipment, conducting routine inspections, and assisting experienced operators to ensure the safe and efficient processing of crude oil. You'll spend time learning how to operate control panels, respond to alarms, and follow detailed safety protocols. Most trainees rotate through different shifts and work as part of a team, gaining exposure to various units within the refinery. This hands-on experience prepares you for more advanced responsibilities and offers a solid foundation for growth within the refinery operations field.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an oil refinery operator trainee?

To thrive as an Oil Refinery Operator Trainee, you need a basic understanding of industrial operations, strong analytical skills, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with some employers preferring technical certifications. Familiarity with process control systems, safety protocols, and specialized equipment such as Distributed Control Systems (DCS) is beneficial. Attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to work collaboratively in a team setting are valuable soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant operations within a complex refinery environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Oil Refinery Operator jobs in California?

The most popular types of Oil Refinery Operator jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Oil Refinery Operator Trainee jobs in California?

For Oil Refinery Operator Trainee jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Oil Refinery Operator Trainee jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Oil Refinery Operator Trainee jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Oil Refinery Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities in California with the most Oil Refinery Operator Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various Oil Refinery Operator Trainee job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,960 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Process Operator Trainee

Pbf Energy

Torrance, CA

$43.08/hr

Full-time

Posted yesterday

New


PBF Energy rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Process Operator Trainee

PBF Energy Inc. (NYSE:PBF) is one of the largest independent refiners in North America, operating, through its subsidiaries, oil refineries and related facilities. We are a growing organization seeking talented Process Operators to join our team as a pivotal member here at PBF Energy. This role is located at Torrance Refining Company in Torrance, CA.

Job Summary

Process Operator Trainees monitor, operate, troubleshoot and repair refinery units and equipment and perform other activities as needed to support the safe operation of the refinery. Starting pay is $43.08 per hour. Successful candidates will receive on-site training. Our Company is committed to safe and environmentally compliant operations so Operators must follow all procedures and safe work practices. People from various work backgrounds can do equally well in operations if they have the technical interest, work ethic, integrity, curiosity and initiative required to join our organization.

Key Responsibilities

  • Operates a variety of equipment such as pumps, compressors, valves and control systems.

  • Physically inspects and monitors equipment and work area using vision, hearing, smell and touch to ensure correct operation.

  • Performs equipment maintenance such as adding lube oil, water, tightening valve packing, changing filters and steam traps, clearing equipment, etc.

  • Operates heavy pneumatic and hydraulic equipment to head and de-head coke drums.

  • Communicates with Console Supervisor and other employees to exchange information on process conditions and relate any changes made or needed.

  • Prepares equipment for maintenance and issues safe work permits.

  • Performs cleaning and housekeeping of assigned units.

  • Understands process flow, basic chemistry associated with assigned units, equipment line-ups, and all unit safety equipment, including isolation points.

  • Reviews computer data and computer generated schematics to ensure process is optimized.

  • Collects and logs operating data.

  • Read and understand technical procedures and materials.

  • Learn computer software associated with process operations.

Required Qualifications:

  • 5 year refining experience or completion of a Process Technology Program

  • Must be at least 18 years of age

  • High school diploma or equivalent

  • Must hold a valid driver's license

  • Must be willing to perform/comply with the following:

    • Satisfactory pass all required training

    • Follow all site safety and operating procedures

    • Work 12-hour rotating shift rotation which includes working nights, weekends and holidays

    • Work overtime as required

    • Work and collaborate in a team environment

    • Work in enclosed/confined spaces such as tanks and vessels

    • Climb equipment up to 250 feet in height

    • Work near large, hot, high-speed machines

    • Lift a minimum of 50 pounds

    • Work around chemicals, including acids and bases

    • Wear fire retardant clothing, respirator, ear and eye protection and other personal protective equipment

    • Work outside in harsh weather conditions

    • Work with petroleum products that are under high pressure and heat

    • Communicate clearly via 2-way radio in English

Preferred Qualifications

  • Associate's degree or Technical certification in Process Technology

  • Previous manufacturing experience

  • Previous safety, health, & environmental background

This description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee.

This position is subject to federally mandated drug/alcohol testing.

The wage for this position is $43.08/hour. The compensation listed in this posting is in compliance with applicable state law. Factors such as scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/training, job-related skills and internal peer equity will be considered in determining the selected candidate's compensation. In addition to salary, PBF offers a comprehensive and generous benefits package.

We thank all respondents for their interest in PBF Holding Company LLC ("PBF Energy"), however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Please no phone calls or emails to any employee of PBF Energy about this requisition. Placement agencies or recruiters need not respond. All resumes submitted by search firms to any employee of PBF Energy via email, the Internet or in any method without a valid written search agreement will be deemed the sole property of PBF Energy. No fee will be paid in the event the candidate is hired by PBF Energy as a result of the referral or through other means.

PBF Energy is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, reproductive health decision making, national origin, ancestry, genetic information, physical or mental disability, medical condition, marital status, age, veteran and military status, or any other status protected by applicable law. We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations as required by law.

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