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Refinery Cleaning Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Clean Harbors is an equal opportunity employer. Clean Harbors is committed to providing access ... Budget cost for re-refinery process chemicals, catalyst, supplies, utilities * Manages the ...

Clean Harbors is an equal opportunity employer. Clean Harbors is committed to providing access ... Budget cost for re-refinery process chemicals, catalyst, supplies, utilities * Manages the ...

Why work for Clean Harbors? * Health and Safety is our #1 priority, and we live it 3-6-5! * ... Budget cost for re-refinery process chemicals, catalyst, supplies, utilities. * Manages the ...

Clean Harbors is an equal opportunity employer. Clean Harbors is committed to providing access ... Budget cost for re-refinery process chemicals, catalyst, supplies, utilities * Manages the ...

Our Refinery Operator is responsible for and not limited to cleaning or changing out of pump strainers, inline filters, sampling tank and production lines, replacing PPE drums, re-use drums, empty ...

Our Refinery Operator is responsible for and not limited to cleaning or changing out of pump strainers, inline filters, sampling tank and production lines, replacing PPE drums, re-use drums, empty ...

Operator Oil Recycling

Fallon, NV · On-site

$13.41 - $31.15/hr

Our Refinery Operator is responsible for and not limited to cleaning or changing out of pump strainers, inline filters, sampling tank and production lines, replacing PPE drums, re-use drums, empty ...

Tank Cleaning Technician

Hammond, IN · On-site

$13.70 - $27.40/hr

Refinery tank cleaning is preferred; however, offshore, drilling, chemical handling, military experience is also acceptable; * Ability to work in an industrial setting, refinery, petrochemical ...

Refinery tank cleaning is preferred; however, offshore, drilling, chemical handling, military experience is also acceptable; * Ability to work in an industrial setting, refinery, petrochemical ...

Refinery tank cleaning is preferred; however, offshore, drilling, chemical handling, military experience is also acceptable; * Ability to work in an industrial setting, refinery, petrochemical ...

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Refinery Cleaning information

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$8

$14

$18

How much do refinery cleaning jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 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 jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Refinery cleaning jobs typically do not pay $4,000 a week without specialized skills or experience. High-paying roles in the industry often require certifications, technical knowledge, or supervisory responsibilities, but most entry-level cleaning positions pay significantly less. Jobs that pay this amount without a degree are rare and usually involve skilled trades or entrepreneurial ventures.

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.

How hard is it to get a job at a refinery?

Getting a refinery cleaning job can be competitive and often requires physical stamina, attention to safety protocols, and sometimes certifications such as OSHA training. Experience in industrial cleaning or maintenance can improve chances, and some positions may require background checks or drug testing. The hiring process typically involves application screening, interviews, and adherence to safety standards.

What is the highest paid cleaning job?

Refinery cleaning jobs tend to be among the higher-paid cleaning roles due to the hazardous environment and specialized skills required. These positions often offer higher wages compared to standard cleaning jobs, especially when combined with certifications, experience, and working in remote or industrial settings.

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.

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.

How do I get into industrial cleaning?

To get into refinery cleaning, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may require safety training or certifications such as OSHA. Experience with industrial equipment, knowledge of safety protocols, and physical stamina are important, as the work often involves working in hazardous environments and using specialized cleaning tools. Entry-level positions may provide on-the-job training for specific safety procedures and cleaning techniques.
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:
Infographic showing various Refinery Cleaning job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 61% Full Time, 38% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $29,989 per year, or $14.4 per hour.
Manager Refinery Operations

Manager Refinery Operations

Clean Harbors

Wichita, KS • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Clean Harbors rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 151 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 75 rated recycling and waste


Job description

Safety-Kleen Systems, in Wichita, KS, is hiring for Refinery Operations Manager, to join their safety conscious team! This Manager will need to have strong leadership skills to see over operations, re-fining processes to include associated Tank Farms and Utilities. Main point of contact between Shipping & Receiving, Maintenance and our Laboratory Groups. Ensure Health & Safety, quality, environmental and production goals are met.  Manage operating expenditures for catalyst, chemicals, supplies and utilities. Monitors, manages, and reports overall production of refinery verses plan.

Why work for Safety-Kleen?

  • Health and Safety is our #1 priority, and we live it 3-6-5!
  • Leader in environmental products and services
  • Competitive pay and benefits
  • Comprehensive health benefits coverage after 30 days
  • 401K
  • Opportunities for growth and development for all the stages of your career
  • Generous paid time off, company paid training and tuition reimbursement
  • Positive and safe work environments 

What does it take to work at Safety-Kleen?

  • Bachelor Chemical or Mechanical Engineering Preferred
  • 5 to 7 years' experience in a Petroleum or Chemical Processing Industry 
  • Strong technical aptitude in refining operations preferred
  • Experience in a metrics based environment
  • Ability to analyze KPIs and adjust strategy to meet organizational goals
  • The ability to influence, motivate and communicate with all levels of an organization
  • Ability to plan, organize, make decisions, and handle multiple priorities with minimal supervision.
  • Change Leadership a plus!
  • Computer savvy!
     

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 ect@cleanharbors.com or 1-844-922-5547.
Clean Harbors and its subsidiaries are a Military & Veteran friendly company.
Please be advised that Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used to support certain stages of the recruitment process but are not used as a replacement for human decision making.

Clean Harbors is committed to complying with applicable pay transparency laws and ensuring fair and equitable compensation. The posted salary range reflects the minimum and maximum target for this role. Final compensation may vary based on factors such as location, experience, skills and business needs. In addition to the base salary, some roles may be eligible for bonus or incentive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package.

*SK

#LI-LP1

  • Budget cost for re-refinery process chemicals, catalyst, supplies, utilities
  • Manages the selection of hydro treating catalyst 5%
  • Participates in shutdown planning activities, process troubleshooting, monitoring and analysis of process data
  • Key player in lines of communication between management and the operations group staff
  • Responsible for hiring, training, coaching, evaluation and discipline of staff
  • Ensures process operation within safe operating limits, compliance with all regulatory, permit and corporate 
  • Environment, Health & Safety (EH&S) requirements and ISO quality standards
  • Oversee and participate in ongoing preparation, revision and approval of SOP's for refinery
  • Review and update training plans

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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