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Petroleum Coke Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Laborer (Terminal Operator)

Garyville, LA · On-site

$16 - $19.50/hr

Petroleum Coke These are just a few of the benefits you can expect from working with Savage: * We ... a successful Material Operator: * Must meet refinery standards for entering the site: clean ...

Oxbow produces and distributes calcined and fuel grade petroleum coke and provides bulk storage and ... Oxbow is currently looking for an Operator Trainee 1 to join our team in Texas City, Texas. This ...

Oxbow produces and distributes calcined and fuel grade petroleum coke and provides bulk storage and ... Observes variations in operating conditions, interprets instrumentation readings and acts in a ...

Oxbow produces and distributes calcined and fuel grade petroleum coke and provides bulk storage and ... Oxbow is currently looking for an Operator Trainee 1 to join our team in Texas City, Texas. This ...

Laborer (Terminal Operator)

Garyville, LA · On-site

$16 - $19.50/hr

Petroleum Coke These are just a few of the benefits you can expect from working with Savage: * We ... a successful Material Operator: * Must meet refinery standards for entering the site: clean ...

Laborer (Terminal Operator)

Garyville, LA · On-site

$16 - $19.50/hr

Petroleum Coke These are just a few of the benefits you can expect from working with Savage: * We ... a successful Material Operator: * Must meet refinery standards for entering the site: clean ...

Oxbow produces and distributes calcined and fuel grade petroleum coke and provides bulk storage and ... Observes variations in operating conditions, interprets instrumentation readings and acts in a ...

... operating several pieces of equipment that will help move, stockpile, and prepare ... petroleum coke for distribution. Here is what you will be doing: * Operate any one of the following ...

... operating several pieces of equipment that will help move, stockpile, and prepare ... petroleum coke for distribution. Here is what you will be doing: * Operate any one of the following ...

... operating several pieces of equipment that will help move, stockpile, and prepare ... petroleum coke for distribution. Here is what you will be doing: * Operate any one of the following ...

Oxbow produces and distributes calcined and fuel grade petroleum coke and provides bulk storage and ... Oxbow Calcining LLC is currently looking for a Utility Operator to join our team in the Baton Rouge ...

Utility

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$29.41/hr

Must be able to handle working with petroleum coke products. * Must be able to operate tools. * Must be able to load and unload heavy equipment, either with manual labor or by operating heavy ...

... operating several pieces of equipment that will help move, stockpile, and prepare ... petroleum coke for distribution. Here is what you will be doing: * Operate any one of the following ...

Experience with advanced rigging and critical lifts, refinery or petroleum coke handling, welding ... Ability to perform physically demanding work in industrial environments, including operating heavy ...

Operations Technician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

You will work alongside experienced team members to develop skills operating both light and heavy ... Subsidiaries include: • Koch Carbon, LLC globally trades and transports petroleum coke, coal ...

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Petroleum Coke Operator information

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$14

$28

$44

How much do petroleum coke operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for petroleum coke operator in the United States is $28.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.91 and $33.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a petroleum coke operator?

Petroleum Coke Operators are industrial professionals responsible for overseeing the safe processing, handling, and transportation of petroleum coke, a byproduct of oil refining. Their duties often include monitoring equipment, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and performing routine maintenance on machinery used in the production and shipment of petroleum coke. They may work in refineries, terminals, or storage facilities, and must adhere to strict environmental and safety regulations. The role requires attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, and knowledge of refinery processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a petroleum coke operator?

To thrive as a Petroleum Coke Operator, you need a solid understanding of refinery operations, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by safety and process training. Familiarity with control systems, heavy machinery, and safety certifications such as OSHA or HAZWOPER is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and teamwork are crucial soft skills for safely coordinating operations and responding to issues. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure safe, efficient handling of petroleum coke and to minimize risks in a hazardous industrial environment.

What are some common challenges faced by petroleum coke operators during shift work, and how can they be managed?

Petroleum Coke Operators often work rotating shifts in industrial environments, which can be physically and mentally demanding. Challenges include managing fatigue, maintaining safety protocols during long hours, and responding quickly to process changes or equipment issues. To manage these challenges, operators are encouraged to follow strict safety procedures, communicate clearly with team members, and develop good time-management and self-care habits. Many facilities also offer ongoing training and support to help operators adapt and advance in their roles.

What is the difference between Petroleum Coke Operator vs Coal Yard Worker?

AspectPetroleum Coke OperatorCoal Yard Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certificationsHigh school diploma, safety certifications
Work EnvironmentRefineries, coke plantsCoal storage and handling facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesOperate equipment for coke processingUnload, store, and move coal

The Petroleum Coke Operator and Coal Yard Worker roles share similar credentials and safety requirements but differ mainly in their work environments and specific duties. Petroleum Coke Operators focus on processing and handling petroleum coke in refinery settings, while Coal Yard Workers manage coal storage and transportation. Both roles are essential in energy and manufacturing industries, with overlapping skills in equipment operation and safety protocols.

What cities are hiring for Petroleum Coke Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Petroleum Coke Operator job openings:

What states have the most Petroleum Coke Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Petroleum Coke Operator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Petroleum Coke Operator jobs?

For Petroleum Coke Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Petroleum Coke Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,681 per year, or $28.2 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Port Arthur, TX • On-site

Kinder Morgan
Oil and Gas Extraction • 10K+ employees

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Operate a 29-ton P&H Static Step less overhead bucket crane to lift, move, and position loads of petroleum coke following all procedures.

  • Operate, monitor, and maintain coke cutting equipment, including performing decoking techniques and assisting with coke drum operations.

  • Operate and perform preventive maintenance on various heavy equipment such as dozers, excavators, forklifts, skid steers, and other terminal machinery.


Kinder Morgan rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 96 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

What We Are Looking For
  • Operates a 29-ton P&H Static Step less overhead bucket crane (cab controlled) in a safe and efficient manner to lift, move, and position loads of petroleum coke maintaining proper pit & pad storage and load coke from pit to grizzly hopper by following all associated procedures with a 18yrd clamshell bucket.
  • Participate as trained and instructed in the maintenance, troubleshooting and repair of cranes, bucket and related equipment.
  • May be assigned to general duties in all areas of operations of the terminals
  • Maintain good and open communication with Driller Operator, Supervision and Maintenance Personnel via radio and other proper means
  • Operate, monitor and maintain coke cutting equipment within the coke petroleum coke handling facility
  • FoCoke cutting experience or drilling operationsllow proper safety rules and operating procedures to support zero tolerance safety objectives
  • Perform proper decoking techniques by following all associated procedures while paying close attention to hot spots and allowing for extra quenching where needed
  • Working with the Operator to un-head and re-head the coke drums, as well as performing the final sweep of the coke drum
  • Must be capable of operating under fresh air with a SCBA or facemask breathing apparatus.
  • Properly inspect equipment prior to and post operating and report any additional maintenance needs and conduct frequent audits on the associated drum cutting equipment
  • Performs basic trouble shooting of petroleum coke cutting equipment
  • As required, assist other petroleum coke cutting personnel with cleaning operations
  • Performs housekeeping duties of petroleum coke cutting area
  • Maintains and lubricates "cutting deck" petroleum coke cutting equipment
  • Operates heavy equipment to gouge out, level, and distribute petroleum coke from inbound conveyors, storage and to outbound conveyors in a safe and efficient manner by performing the following duties.
  • Operates D-9 and D10 Dozer with concave blade attached across front to gouge out, level, and distribute petroleum coke from conveyor to storage - storage to re-claimer in a safe, efficient manner.
  • Operate dozer in successive passes over terrain to raise or lower terrain to specified level. Employ dozer day and night to push material to dozer trap in order to load out material for vessels.
  • Maintain dozer, skid steer, forklift, track hoe, back hoe, and wheel loader equipment by performing preventive maintenance, i.e.: lubricating, cleaning, adding gear lubricants, changing filters and documenting all activity performed on said piece of equipment
  • Experience operating an excavator, fork lift, telehandler, skid steer and man lift. Must be capable of becoming a certified operator on each piece of equipment.
  • Train on remote controlled ship loader by engaging push buttons on the remote to distribute coke accordingly to stowage plan and ships chief mate instructions. Ensure satisfactory loading of the vessel and watch for safety of the ship loader during operation.
  • Assures that work performed is done properly and safely
  • Operators will train and operate all of the terminals equipment and perform the duties and responsibilities of the terminal's Equipment Operator/Maintenance positions such as Dozer, Driller and cutting, Overhead Crane, skid steers, Excavator, Telehandler, Man Lift, Front End Loader and Ship Loading Operations for progression.

What You Will Do
  • Operates equipment in a safe and efficient manner
  • Utilize proper Personal Protective Equipment for the assigned tasks and report damaged protective equipment and unsafe conditions to Terminal Supervisor
  • Regular work attendance is required
  • Able to work at different work locations when needed
  • Self-motivated.
  • Must be willing to work shift and/or overtime hours during the week and/or weekends as dictated by operations
  • If required must be able to perform shift work, rotating day/night.
  • You will be subject to the on-call schedule and must respond to emergency call outs as scheduled
  • Perform housekeeping and general maintenance as required
  • Must possess and maintain a valid motor vehicle operator's driver license and have the willingness to use personal and/or company vehicle in the course of employment
  • Must be able to work outside in varying weather conditions
  • Must be able to work in dusty environment
  • Must wear FRC clothing.
  • Must be able to lift 70 pounds
  • Physically able to handle large tools, climb on and off the equipment, ascend and descend ladders, and should not have a fear of heights
  • Required to stand, walk and climb for extended periods of time.
  • Must be able to work with a team, take direction from supervisors, keep required work schedules, focus attention on details, and follow work rules
  • Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions.
  • While performing the duties of this job the employee is regularly exposed to moving mechanical part, fumes, airborne particles, outside weather conditions and vibration. The employee is frequently exposed to high, precarious places and risk of electrical shock and loud noise levels.

What You Need
Education:
  • High School Diploma or GED Equivalent is required.
  • A minimum of eight months to one year experience in Heavy equipment especially D9 dozers, track hoes, etc.

Required Qualifications:
  • Must possess and maintain a valid motor vehicle operator's license and a driving record satisfactory to the company and its insurers and must be willing to use personal and/or company vehicle in the course of employment.
  • Must pass and complete Safety training/certification as required by customers to work in their facilities and as required by Kinder Morgan at all locations.
  • Must obtain and/or meet all requirements to enter foreign trade zones such as background checks by the Department of Homeland Security, i.e. obtain and maintain a Transportation Workers Identification Card (TWIC).
  • Must be able to complete/pass DISA testing for entrance into facility.
  • Must be able to pass respiratory fit testing.
  • Must be able to effectively communicate verbally.
  • Must be willing to work day or night shift schedule as assigned and overtime with little to no notice during the week, weekends, holiday, etc. as needed for operational needs.
  • In order to appropriately perform the essential duties of this job, regular work attendance is required.

Working Conditions:
  • Understand and comply with customer and Kinder Morgan's rules and policies.
  • Must be willing and able to work as a part of team, take direction from supervisor(s), keep required work schedules, focus attention to details, and follow work rules.
  • Ability to handle evolving conditions.
  • Ability to identify, report, and correct safety and environmental concerns.
  • Regularly required to stand, walk, climb, bend, squat, reach, etc. for extended periods of time.
  • This position consists of outside work and adverse weather conditions may apply.

Why Join Kinder Morgan
Kinder Morgan is a large energy infrastructure company operating in North America. Access to reliable, affordable energy is a critical component for improving lives around the world. We are committed to providing energy transportation and storage services in a safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible manner for the benefit of the people, communities, and businesses we serve.
Kinder Morgan provides equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions, gender (including gender identity and expression), sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, family status, status as an individual authorized to work in the U.S., or any other status protected by law.
For more information about Kinder Morgan, our culture, opportunities available, and to join our Talent Community, please visit our careers site at www.kindermorgan.com.

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About Kinder Morgan

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Kinder Morgan is moving the fuels of today for the energy of the future. From the natural gas that heats your home to the gasoline that fuels your vehicle, our pipeline and terminal assets provide the necessary infrastructure to meet today's growing global energy demand and play a key role in the low-carbon energy transition of the future.

Industry

Oil and gas extraction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

1997

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