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Oil Refinery Operator Jobs in Spring, TX (NOW HIRING)

Madden Bolt Corp

Crane Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

This position requires precise operation of overhead cranes and other heavy machinery to support various phases of construction, refinery maintenance, and oil field operations. The operator ensures ...

Unipec America Inc

Crude Operator/Scheduler

Houston, TX · On-site

Ensuring the safe, efficient, and timely movement of crude oil via marine, terminal, pipeline, and ... Refinery planning and/or operations experience is a plus. * A strong understanding of contracts ...

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All JobsOil Refinery Operator JobsOil Refinery Operator Jobs in Spring, TX

Oil Refinery Operator information

See Spring, TX salary details

$10

$19

$29

How much do oil refinery operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for oil refinery operator in Spring, TX is $19.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $21.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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

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.

How do I become an oil refinery operator?

To become an oil refinery operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or technical education in process technology or related fields. Relevant skills include understanding of safety procedures, equipment operation, and maintenance, often supported by certifications such as OSHA safety training. Experience in industrial settings and the ability to work in shifts are also important for this role.

How much do oil refinery operators make?

Oil refinery operators in Texas typically earn an average annual salary of around $70,000 to $85,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the specific refinery. They often work in shifts and need technical skills to monitor and control refining processes.

Is it hard to get a job at an oil refinery?

Getting a job as an oil refinery operator can be competitive and often requires relevant technical skills, safety training, and sometimes certifications such as OSHA or process safety management. Employers typically look for experience in industrial environments and the ability to work in shifts, but opportunities depend on the region and current industry demand.

What job categories do people searching Oil Refinery Operator jobs in Spring, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Oil Refinery Operator jobs in Spring, TX are:

What cities near Spring, TX are hiring for Oil Refinery Operator jobs?

Cities near Spring, TX with the most Oil Refinery Operator job openings:

Oil Refinery Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Oil Refinery Operator job openings in Spring, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,127 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Crude Oil Pipeline Operator in Houston

Energy Jobline ZR

Houston, TX • On-site

Other

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Job DescriptionJob Description

Location: Houston, TX:  (Area of responsibility will include Fort Bend County to Wharton County, subject to change)

Position Summary

Responsibilities include the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of crude oil pipeline systems, pump stations, and terminal facilities. This role monitors and controls the movement of crude oil through pipeline infrastructure, ensures product quality and custody transfer accuracy, and responds to abnormal operating conditions to protect personnel, the public, and the environment.

Department: Pipeline Operations reporting to the Pipeline Manager

FLSA Status: Hourly on an 8-hour straight day schedule, Monday through Friday.  Overtime, weekends, and holidays will be worked when needed and “on-call” for emergency response.

Working Conditions

This position operates in an industrial, outdoor environment with exposure to crude oil, H2S, noise, and moving equipment. Emergency response availability is a condition of continued employment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

1.      Monitor pipeline operations via SCADA systems; interpret pressure, flow, and temperature data to detect leaks, pressure anomalies, or equipment malfunctions

2.      Communicate with other pipeline operators and terminal operators during crude transfers to ensure safe and efficient operations

3.      Start up, shut down, and adjust pumps, valves, and control equipment per operating procedures

4.      Perform field inspections of pipeline right-of-way, pump stations, tank farms, and metering skids

5.      Conduct manual valve line-ups and switch product batches (batching/scheduling) accurately

6.      Perform gauging, sampling, and custody transfer measurement in accordance with API standards

7.      Respond to alarms and abnormal operating conditions per emergency response and shutdown procedures

8.      Complete DOT/PHMSA-required inspections, leak surveys, and cathodic protection checks

9.      Maintain accurate operating logs, shift turnover reports, and regulatory documentation

10. Perform lockout/tagout (LOTO) and permit-required confined space procedures as needed

11. Conduct JSA (Job Safety Analysis) prior to the start of a job to ensure safe planning and execution

12. Support maintenance activities: pig launching/receiving, tank gauging, equipment troubleshooting

13. Participate in emergency response drills and spill containment procedures

14. Respond to “811” Line Locate Calls

15. Comply with all PHMSA, DOT, EPA, OSHA, and company HSE policies

16. Complete routine OQ training in accordance with Texas Railroad Commission (TRRC) regulations

Minimum Qualifications

1.      High school diploma or GED required;  An associate’s degree in Process Technology or related field

2.      5+ years pipeline, terminal, refinery, or related industrial operations experience

3.      Working knowledge of SCADA systems, pipeline hydraulics, and custody transfer principles

4.      Valid driver's license with clean driving record

5.      Ability to obtain TWIC card

6.      DOT Operator Qualification (OQ) certification, or ability to obtain within 90 days

7.      Basic understanding of API gauging/sampling standards (API MPMS)

Physical Requirements

1.      Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and operate large manual valves

2.      Ability to climb ladders/stairs, work at heights, and access confined spaces

3.      Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions

4.      Ability to wear PPE including FRC, hard hat, safety glasses, H2S monitor, and respiratory protection

5.      Ability to respond to site within a defined callout radius for emergency response

Qualifications

1.      Prior experience with liquid pipeline batching and blending operations

2.      Experience with H2S environments and crude oil-specific hazards

3.      Experience with pipeline leak detection systems

4. Experience with operating and maintaining cathodic protection systems

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