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Petroleum Refinery Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... operating units. Drive process safety excellence working in conjunction with other disciplines ... Prior experience working in a petroleum refinery in a process safety role is a pluse. Level will be ...

... operating units. Drive process safety excellence working in conjunction with other disciplines ... Prior experience working in a petroleum refinery in a process safety role is a pluse. Level will be ...

... operating units. Drive process safety excellence working in conjunction with other disciplines ... Prior experience working in a petroleum refinery in a process safety role is a pluse. Level will be ...

... operating units. Drive process safety excellence working in conjunction with other disciplines ... Prior experience working in a petroleum refinery in a process safety role is a pluse. Level will be ...

... refinery operating assets * Coordinates with operations in scheduling equipment for repairs and ... Warehouse/ plant environment, petroleum refinery and out-of-doors environment based (including ...

... refinery operating assets * Coordinates with operations in scheduling equipment for repairs and ... Warehouse/ plant environment, petroleum refinery and out-of-doors environment based (including ...

... refinery operating assets * Coordinates with operations in scheduling equipment for repairs and ... Warehouse/ plant environment, petroleum refinery and out-of-doors environment based (including ...

... refinery operating assets * Coordinates with operations in scheduling equipment for repairs and ... Warehouse/ plant environment, petroleum refinery and out-of-doors environment based (including ...

WI · On-site

Review the monthly Refinery Operating Plan (ROP) and communicate plans with Corporate Planning ... Experience with day-to-day use of Aspen Petroleum Scheduler (APS) scheduling tools, preferred. Need ...

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Petroleum Refinery Operator information

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$33

How much do petroleum refinery operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for petroleum 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 does a petroleum refinery operator do?

A Petroleum Refinery Operator is responsible for controlling and monitoring the equipment and processes that convert crude oil into usable products like gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel. They regulate the flow of oil, adjust temperature and pressure, and ensure all systems run safely and efficiently. Operators also test samples, troubleshoot issues, and follow strict safety protocols to prevent accidents. Their role is essential for maintaining smooth refinery operations and meeting production targets.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a petroleum refinery operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Petroleum Refinery Operator, you need a strong understanding of process operations, mechanical systems, and safety protocols, typically supported by a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with distributed control systems (DCS), programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and safety management systems is commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help operators respond quickly to issues and collaborate with team members. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable refinery operations while minimizing risks and downtime.

What are some common challenges petroleum refinery operators face during shift work, and how can they manage them effectively?

Petroleum Refinery Operators often work rotating shifts, which can include nights, weekends, and holidays. One common challenge is maintaining alertness and consistent performance during long or overnight shifts, as well as managing fatigue. Effective ways to address these challenges include adhering to a regular sleep schedule, taking short breaks when possible, and communicating closely with team members to ensure safety and operational continuity. Additionally, operators often use checklists and digital monitoring systems to stay organized and minimize errors during transitions between shifts.

What is the difference between Petroleum Refinery Operator vs Chemical Plant Operator?

AspectPetroleum Refinery OperatorChemical Plant Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical training; certifications in refinery operationsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical training; certifications in chemical processing
Work EnvironmentRefineries, processing units, industrial plantsChemical manufacturing facilities, processing plants
Industry UsageOil and gas industry, energy sectorChemical manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, plastics

Petroleum Refinery Operators and Chemical Plant Operators share similar credentials and work environments, often requiring technical training and certifications. While refinery operators focus on processing crude oil into usable products within the oil industry, chemical plant operators manage chemical reactions and processes in manufacturing plants. Both roles are essential in industrial settings, but they serve different sectors and product outputs.

How do I become a petroleum refinery operator?

To become a petroleum 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. Many employers prefer applicants with experience operating industrial equipment, and obtaining certifications such as the Process Technology Certification can improve job prospects. Strong mechanical skills, attention to safety, and the ability to work in a team are also important.

How much do petroleum refinery operators make in the US?

Petroleum refinery operators in the US typically earn a median annual wage of around $70,000 to $80,000, with experienced workers and those in higher-cost-of-living areas earning over $100,000. Salaries can vary based on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the refinery environment.

Is it hard to get a job at a petroleum refinery?

Getting a job as a petroleum refinery operator can be competitive and often requires relevant technical skills, safety training, and sometimes certifications such as OSHA or API. Employers typically look for candidates with experience in industrial environments and the ability to work in shifts, including nights and weekends.
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What states have the most Petroleum Refinery Operator jobs?

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

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Infographic showing various Petroleum Refinery Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,216 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Terminal Operator

Louisville, KY • On-site

Marathon Petroleum Corporation (MPC)
Oil and Gas Extraction • 10K+ employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Marathon Petroleum rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 205 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

An exciting career awaits you
At MPC, we're committed to being a great place to work - one that welcomes new ideas, encourages diverse perspectives, develops our people, and fosters a collaborative team environment.
Overview:
Marathon Petroleum Company LP, a major petroleum refiner and marketer, is accepting resumes for a Terminal Operator at our Louisville, KY Terminal. This position works with and around petroleum products and is responsible for all operating aspects of a petroleum products terminal. This position is critical in playing a prominent role in enhancing life's possibilities by blending, distributing and delivering quality products in a safe, reliable and competitive manner.
This position will be assigned to a home location, but may be expected to cover work at other locations in the area as required to meet business needs. The position may require either a 4- or 5-day workweek or shift work on an as-needed basis. Call-outs and overtime may be required, which would include after business hours and on weekends and holidays.
This position will be provided with continuous training to develop job related skills. A successful person in this position will be collaborative, reliable, motivated, and prioritize safety.
Benefits include health insurance, a pension, competitive pay, 401K match, wellness program, parental leave, and more. For a complete list of benefits we offer, please visit www.mympcbenefits.com.
To watch a video about our Operator position, please click here: L&S Terminal Operator
Responsibilities:
Troubleshooting, repair and maintenance of a truck loading rack and other facility equipment. Sampling and laboratory testing of petroleum products. Gauging storage tanks. Supporting the shipment and receipt of petroleum products via pipeline and/or barge/ship. Stair climbing, lifting up to 50 pounds unassisted and up to 100 pounds with assistance, and often working outdoors. Preparing terminal reports.
Requirements:
  • High school diploma or GED
  • Ability to learn basic computer skills
  • Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide and ability to document and maintain accurate records
  • Ability to learn mechanical and electrical systems
  • A valid driver's license is required
  • The successful candidate will be required to obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) with company funding

Preferences:
  • Associate degree or vocational technical training
  • Previous process operations, maintenance crafts and/or petroleum industry experience

As an energy industry leader, our career opportunities fuel personal and professional growth.
Location:
Louisville, Kentucky
Additional locations:
Job Requisition ID:
00023654
Location Address:
4510 Algonquin Pkwy
Education:
Employee Group:
Full time
Employee Subgroup:
Regular
Marathon Petroleum Company LP is an Equal Opportunity Employer and gives consideration for employment to qualified applicants without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, sex, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, reproductive health decision-making, age, mental or physical disability, medical condition or AIDS/HIV status, ancestry, national origin, genetic information, military, veteran status, marital status, citizenship or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. If you would like more information about your EEO rights as an applicant, click here.
If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process at Marathon Petroleum LP, please contact our Human Resources Department at talentacquisition@marathonpetroleum.com. Please specify the reasonable accommodation you are requesting, along with the job posting number in which you may be interested. A Human Resources representative will review your request and contact you to discuss a reasonable accommodation. Marathon Petroleum offers a total rewards program which includes, but is not limited to, access to health, vision, and dental insurance, paid time off, 401k matching program, paid parental leave, and educational reimbursement. Detailed benefit information is available at https://mympcbenefits.com.The hired candidate will also be eligible for a discretionary company-sponsored annual bonus program.
Equal Opportunity Employer: Veteran / Disability
We will consider all qualified Applicants for employment, including those with arrest or conviction records, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws. In reviewing criminal history in connection with a conditional offer of employment, Marathon will consider the key responsibilities of the role.

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About Marathon Petroleum

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Marathon Petroleum Corporation, headquartered in Findlay, Ohio, US, is a leading independent petroleum refining, marketing, and transportation company. Their official website can be found at marathonpetroleum.com. The company, part of the energy sector, was established in 1887, making it one of the oldest petroleum companies in the US. It operates an integrated refining, marketing and transportation system concentrated primarily in the Midwest, Northeast, East Coast, Southeast and Gulf Coast of the United States. This includes refineries, pipelines, and terminals that process and transport crude oil and refined products.

Industry

Oil and gas extraction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Findlay, OH, US

Year founded

1887