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Refinery Cleaning Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Clean Harbors

Refinery Operator II

East Chicago, IN · On-site

Clean Harbors is an equal opportunity employer. Clean Harbors is committed to providing access ... Operate and monitor refinery plant equipment and processes according to established procedures and ...

Clean Harbors

Refinery Operator II

East Chicago, IN · On-site

Performs and oversees various refinery plant operational duties within an industrial work ... Clean Harbors is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for ...

Clean Harbors

Refinery Operator II

East Chicago, IN

Clean Harbors is an equal opportunity employer. Clean Harbors is committed to providing access ... Operate and monitor refinery plant equipment and processes according to established procedures and ...

EcoLube Recovery

Refinery Operator

Portland, OR

$22 - $24/hr

Regularly clean and inspect system equipment to maintain operational standards. * Develop a working knowledge of a variety of equipment used in the refinery process. * Participate in plant ...

CleanHarbors

Refinery Operator II

East Chicago, IN

Clean Harbors is an equal opportunity employer. Clean Harbors is committed to providing access ... Operate and monitor refinery plant equipment and processes according to established procedures and ...

AAK

REFINERY OPERATOR IA

Louisville, KY · On-site

Cleans presses * Cleans rail carts and adds nitrogen to oil products * Dumps clay into pre-coat tank * Takes samples to the lab every 2 hours * Runs chlorophyll test * Notifies refinery if product ...

AarhusKarlshamn

REFINERY OPERATOR IA

Louisville, KY

Cleans presses * Cleans rail carts and adds nitrogen to oil products * Dumps clay into pre-coat tank * Takes samples to the lab every 2 hours * Runs chlorophyll test * Notifies refinery if product ...

HF Sinclair

Refinery Process Engineer

Dallas, TX · On-site

Review proposals of outside vendors regarding the purchase of new or modernization of existing processing equipment * Assist with clean fuel projects * Improve profitability of the refinery * Design ...

the Doe Run company

Refinery Operator

Boss, MO · On-site

$26.04/hr

The Doe Run Company is seeking a Refinery Operator to form and cast lead, make oxide, and move ... Perform minor maintenance on machinery and maintain a clean work area. * Complete tasks in a safe ...

HF Sinclair

Refinery Process Engineer

Dallas, TX · On-site

Review proposals of outside vendors regarding the purchase of new or modernization of existing processing equipment * Assist with clean fuel projects * Improve profitability of the refinery * Design ...

Cargill

Refinery Technician

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$29/hr

Direct responsibility for operating and troubleshooting refining, bleaching, hydrogenation ... Maintaining a safe and clean work environment * Other duties as assigned Required Qualifications

HollyFrontier

Refinery Process Engineer

Dallas, TX

Review proposals of outside vendors regarding the purchase of new or modernization of existing processing equipment * Assist with clean fuel projects * Improve profitability of the refinery * Design ...

HF Sinclair

Refinery Process Engineer

Dallas, TX

Review proposals of outside vendors regarding the purchase of new or modernization of existing processing equipment * Assist with clean fuel projects * Improve profitability of the refinery * Design ...

Doe Run

Refinery Operator

Boss, MO · On-site

$26.04/hr

The Doe Run Company is seeking a Refinery Operator to form and cast lead, make oxide, and move ... Perform minor maintenance on machinery and maintain a clean work area. * Complete tasks in a safe ...

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Refinery Cleaning information

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How much do refinery cleaning jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for refinery cleaning in the United States is $14.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.50 and $15.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is refinery cleaning?

Refinery cleaning refers to the specialized process of removing contaminants, residues, and buildups from the equipment, tanks, and piping systems in oil refineries. This cleaning is crucial for maintaining operational efficiency, safety, and compliance with environmental regulations. Techniques used can include chemical cleaning, hydroblasting, and vacuum services, depending on the type of residue and equipment involved. Proper refinery cleaning helps prevent equipment failures, reduces downtime, and ensures the quality of the products produced.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Refinery Cleaning Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Refinery Cleaning Technician, you need a solid understanding of industrial cleaning procedures, safety protocols, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with specialized equipment such as high-pressure washers, vacuum trucks, and confined space entry systems is often required, along with OSHA or HAZWOPER certifications. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong communication are crucial soft skills for maintaining safety and efficiency. These skills and qualifications are important to ensure thorough cleaning, prevent accidents, and comply with strict industry safety standards.

What is the highest paid cleaning job?

In the cleaning industry, refinery cleaning jobs tend to be among the highest paid due to the specialized skills, safety training, and hazardous environment involved. These roles often require certifications and experience, with salaries significantly higher than general cleaning positions, especially for those working in industrial or hazardous settings.

What is the highest salary for a cleaner?

The highest salary for a refinery cleaner can reach up to $50,000 to $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Senior or specialized cleaners working in hazardous environments or with advanced skills may earn higher wages. Overtime and shift differentials can also increase total compensation.

What is the difference between Refinery Cleaning vs Petrochemical Plant Cleaning?

AspectRefinery CleaningPetrochemical Plant Cleaning
CredentialsOSHA safety training, industry-specific certificationsOSHA safety training, industry-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentRefineries, industrial plants with heavy machineryPetrochemical facilities, chemical processing units
Employer & IndustryOil & gas industry, refining companiesChemical manufacturing, petrochemical industry
Common Search/ComparisonRefinery Cleaning vs Petrochemical Plant Cleaning

Refinery Cleaning and Petrochemical Plant Cleaning share similar credentials and work environments, often requiring safety training and certifications. However, refinery cleaning focuses on oil refineries with heavy machinery, while petrochemical cleaning involves chemical processing units. Both roles are vital in industrial maintenance within the oil, gas, and chemical sectors.

How to start working at a refinery?

To start working as a refinery cleaner, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may be required to pass a background check and drug test. Relevant skills include attention to safety protocols and familiarity with cleaning tools and chemicals; some positions may require certifications such as OSHA safety training. Entry-level roles often involve on-the-job training in a safety-conscious environment, with shifts that can include nights and weekends.

How much does an industrial cleaner make?

Industrial cleaners, including refinery cleaning workers, typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $50,000. Wages can vary based on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the cleaning environment, which often requires knowledge of safety protocols and specialized equipment.

What are the typical safety challenges faced in refinery cleaning, and how are they addressed in daily operations?

Refinery cleaning professionals often work in environments with hazardous chemicals, confined spaces, and high temperatures, which pose significant safety challenges. To address these risks, teams follow strict safety protocols, including wearing personal protective equipment (PPE), undergoing regular safety training, and adhering to lockout/tagout procedures. Daily operations involve thorough pre-job safety briefings, continuous gas monitoring, and close coordination with other refinery personnel to ensure all hazards are identified and managed. This strong focus on safety helps prevent accidents and ensures a secure work environment for everyone involved.
More about Refinery Cleaning jobs
What cities are hiring for Refinery Cleaning jobs? Cities with the most Refinery Cleaning job openings:
What states have the most Refinery Cleaning jobs? States with the most job openings for Refinery Cleaning jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Refinery Cleaning jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Refinery Cleaning jobs are:
Refinery Cleaning jobs near you
Infographic showing various Refinery Cleaning job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 96% Full Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,989 per year, or $14.4 per hour.
Refinery Operator II

Refinery Operator II

Clean Harbors

East Chicago, IN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Clean Harbors rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 142 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

39th of 71 rated recycling and waste

Job description

We are seeking a safety minded Refinery Operator II for our East Chicago, IN facility. Performs and oversees various refinery plant operational duties within an industrial work environment while monitoring and controlling the refining/processing equipment to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable operations.

  • Health and Safety is our #1 priority and we live it 3-6-5
  • 401k  with matching component
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan
  • Competitive Union wages, plus weekly overtime opportunities
  • Comprehensive health benefits coverage
  • Generous paid time off, company paid training and tuition reimbursement
  • Positive and safe work environments
  • Opportunities for growth and development for all the stages of your career
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Must be able to obtain a TWIC card is mandatory
  • 1-3 Years experience as a manual labor experience (industrial, refinery or construction) preferred
  • 1-3 years in a production driven environment preferred
  • 1+ years forklift experience
  • Must be able to work at heights
  • Permit writing preferred
  • Oil and gas experience is an asset!
  • Mechanically inclined or familiar with general tools
  • Computer literate and can operate an IPAD
  • Punctal
  • Follow direction and take initiative
  • Must be able to work in the elements
  • Lift up to 50lbs, climb, stoop, bend, stand for long period and work at heights

Safety-Kleen Systems, a Clean Harbors company, has a commitment to excellence deeply rooted in a strong sense of tradition. Our entire business model revolves around keeping North American businesses green. We generate more than $1.2 billion in annual revenue as a world-class environmental service organization and market leader in industrial hazardous waste management, parts-cleaning technology, and oil re-refining. We collect over 200 million gallons of used motor oil each year and we have the largest re-refinery capacity in North America allowing us to re-refine more than 150 million gallons each year.

Every day, we help our customers resolve their waste management needs and reduce their carbon footprint. PROTECTION. CHOICES. PEOPLE. MAKE GREEN WORK.

Clean Harbors is an equal opportunity employer.

Clean Harbors is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact eci@cleanharbors.com or 1-844-922-5547.

Safety-Kleen Systems, a Clean Harbors company, is a Military & Veteran friendly company.

*SK

#LI- LDI

  • Operate and monitor refinery plant equipment and processes according to established procedures and safety protocols.
  • Perform routine PM maintenance on refinery plant equipment and troubleshoot any issues as they arise.
  • Monitor and maintain process parameters, such as temperature, pressure, flow rates, and chemical concentrations, to ensure optimal performance.
  • Monitor and control refinery plant emissions to ensure compliance with environmental regulations.
  • Communicate with other plant personnel and management to coordinate activities and ensure safe and efficient operations
  • Other duties as assigned

What Clean Harbors employees say

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About Clean Harbors

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Clean Harbors is North America’s leading provider of environmental and industrial services. The Company serves a diverse customer base, including a majority of Fortune 500 companies. Its customer base spans a number of industries, including chemical, and manufacturing, as well as numerous government agencies. These customers rely on Clean Harbors to deliver a broad range of services such as end-to-end hazardous waste management, emergency spill response, industrial cleaning and maintenance, and recycling services. Through its Safety-Kleen subsidiary, Clean Harbors also is North America’s largest re-refiner and recycler of used oil and a leading provider of parts washers and environmental services to commercial, industrial and automotive customers. Founded in 1980 and based in Massachusetts, Clean Harbors operates throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico.

Industry

Environmental consulting services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Norwell, MA, US

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