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Refinery Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

$41.67/hr

As an Electrical Engineer at a Marathon refinery, you can expect to become familiar with industry codes and best practices, build critical thinking skills, and gain an understanding of how all ...

Apply and help refine engineering standards and patterns across code quality, performance, scalability, observability, and governance, and drive their adoption through example and code/design review.

Continuously refine engineering practices and champion improvements that elevate team performance and product excellence. Mus Have Qualifications5+ years of full-stack software engineering experience ...

Senior Electrical Engineer

Lisle, IL · On-site

$140K - $185K/yr

The Electrical Engineer defines program and documentation standards to ensure refinery reliability and equipment availability. Job Duties/Responsibilities: Design moderately complex electrical ...

Senior Electrical Engineer

Lisle, IL · On-site

$140K - $185K/yr

The Electrical Engineer defines program and documentation standards to ensure refinery reliability and equipment availability. Job Duties/Responsibilities: • Design moderately complex electrical ...

Senior Electrical Engineer

Lisle, IL · On-site

$140K - $185K/yr

The Sr. Electrical Engineer is responsible for applying standard theories, techniques, concepts ... Develop, review, and modify refinery electrical standards with vendors recommendations and NFPA ...

Senior Staff Software Engineer

Chicago, IL

$126K - $166K/yr

Apply and help refine engineering standards and patterns across code quality, performance, scalability, observability, and governance, and drive their adoption through example and code/design review.

Senior Staff Software Engineer

Westchester, IL · On-site

$121K - $160K/yr

Apply and help refine engineering standards and patterns across code quality, performance, scalability, observability, and governance, and drive their adoption through example and code/design review.

Senior Electrical Engineer

Lisle, IL · On-site

$140K - $185K/yr

The Electrical Engineer defines program and documentation standards to ensure refinery reliability and equipment availability. Job Duties/Responsibilities: Design moderately complex electrical ...

Showing results 21-40

Refinery Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$57.7K

$108.2K

$196.7K

How much do refinery engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for refinery engineer in Illinois is $108,174.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,000.00 and $128,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a refinery engineer?

Refinery Engineers are professionals who design, operate, and optimize processes in oil refineries to convert crude oil into usable products such as gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel. They are responsible for ensuring the efficiency, safety, and environmental compliance of refinery operations. Their duties often include troubleshooting equipment, improving process performance, and implementing new technologies to maximize output and minimize waste. Refinery Engineers typically have a background in chemical or process engineering and work closely with other engineers, operators, and maintenance personnel.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a refinery engineer?

To thrive as a Refinery Engineer, you need a solid background in chemical or mechanical engineering, process optimization, and safety standards, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with process simulation software (such as Aspen HYSYS), industry regulations, and certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) licensure are commonly expected. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication skills set outstanding engineers apart in managing complex operations. These abilities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and cost-effective refinery performance in a highly regulated industry.

What are some typical challenges refinery engineers face when working on process optimization projects?

Refinery Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing process efficiency with safety and environmental regulations, integrating new technologies with legacy systems, and troubleshooting complex process issues. Coordinating with multidisciplinary teams—like operations, maintenance, and environmental compliance—is essential to ensure changes are practical and sustainable. Adaptability and strong communication skills are key, as process optimization projects can involve shifting priorities and tight deadlines.

What is the difference between Refinery Engineer vs Process Engineer?

AspectRefinery EngineerProcess Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Chemical, Mechanical, or Petroleum Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferredBachelor's in Chemical, Mechanical, or Industrial Engineering; PE license optional
Work EnvironmentRefineries, petrochemical plants, industrial facilitiesManufacturing plants, chemical processing facilities, industrial settings
Industry UsagePrimarily in oil refining and petrochemical industriesBroader across manufacturing, chemical, and process industries

Refinery Engineers focus specifically on oil refining processes, safety, and optimization within refineries, while Process Engineers work across various industries to improve manufacturing processes. Both roles require similar technical skills and credentials but differ mainly in industry focus and work environment.

What does a refinery engineer do?

A refinery engineer designs, develops, and oversees the processes used to convert crude oil into usable products like gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel. They monitor equipment, optimize operations for safety and efficiency, and ensure compliance with environmental regulations, often using control systems and requiring technical certifications. Their work environment is typically a refinery or chemical plant, and they may work shifts to maintain continuous operations.

What job categories do people searching Refinery Engineer jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Refinery Engineer jobs in Illinois are:

Infographic showing various Refinery Engineer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,174 per year, or $52 per hour.

$80K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Valdes Architecture & Engineering is seeking a Project Engineer to lead the successful planning, execution, and delivery of multidisciplinary engineering projects serving any the following: municipal, transportation, water/waste water, chemical, refining, utility, and industrial markets. This role is responsible for coordinating project teams, maintaining client relationships, managing project schedules and budgets, and ensuring high-quality project execution from initiation through completion.
The ideal candidate is an organized and collaborative engineering professional who thrives in a fast-paced consulting environment and enjoys working directly with clients while leading diverse engineering teams. This position offers the opportunity to manage technically challenging projects while developing long-term client partnerships and supporting the continued growth of Valdes.
Responsibilities
  • Manage engineering projects from proposal through project completion, ensuring scope, schedule, budget, and quality objectives are achieved
  • Develop, maintain, and monitor project schedules, milestones, and deliverables
  • Coordinate multidisciplinary engineering teams throughout all phases of project execution
  • Plan, organize, and oversee engineering design activities to ensure quality, consistency, and compliance with client requirements
  • Monitor project progress, identify potential risks, and proactively implement solutions to keep projects on track
  • Maintain strong working relationships with clients and serve as a primary point of contact throughout project execution.
  • Coordinate project meetings, prepare status reports, and communicate project performance to internal and external stakeholders
  • Support project planning, resource allocation, and workload forecasting
  • Assist with project budgeting, cost tracking, and change management activities
  • Participate in project proposals, scope development, and project planning efforts
  • Collaborate with discipline leaders to resolve technical and project execution challenges
  • Travel to client facilities for project meetings, site visits, field investigations, and on-site assignments as required

Qualifications
  • Bachelor of Science degree in Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, or another accredited engineering discipline
  • Minimum of two (2) years of engineering experience within a consulting or industrial environment
  • Minimum of two (2) years of experience supporting projects within the chemical, refining, utility, municipal, transportation, or industrial sectors
  • Demonstrated ability to organize and manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to effectively interact with clients and multidisciplinary project teams
  • Experience developing and maintaining project schedules
  • Ability to plan, coordinate, and execute engineering projects while maintaining quality standards and meeting project deadlines
  • Willingness and ability to travel locally and occasionally out of town for client meetings and project assignments
  • Must possess exceptional interpersonal and organizational skills
  • Must be able to work in the US without sponsorship now or in the future

Preferred
  • Previous project management experience within an engineering consulting firm
  • Familiarity with multidisciplinary engineering projects involving industrial facilities, utilities, municipal facilities, transportation, water/waste water, chemical processing, or refining operations
  • Experience managing multiple concurrent engineering projects and coordinating cross-functional project teams

Why Join Valdes?
At Valdes, you'll work alongside experienced engineering professionals on challenging industrial and infrastructure projects that support some of the nation's leading manufacturing, chemical, refining, and utility clients.
Our collaborative culture encourages technical excellence, professional development, and leadership growth while providing opportunities to manage complex projects from concept through construction. You'll have the opportunity to build strong client relationships, develop project management expertise, and play a key role in delivering innovative engineering solutions that make a lasting impact.
$80,000 - $105,000 a year
Salaries for all positions are based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, total years of experience in the industry, education, skills, and qualifications. Compensation may vary depending on the candidate's individual background and expertise. Salaries are subject to fluctuation outside of the given range. The indicated range is not a commitment and meant as a guideline. All compensation, exempt or non-exempt status, and benefits will be discussed during the interview process.
Valdes Architecture & Engineering Company is looking for bright and talented people that want to take their career to the next level. We offer many rewarding career paths to challenge and engage our employees at all phases of their careers. Our office provides a team environment, and excellent working conditions, which allow individuals to maximize their potential. Valdes Architecture & Engineering offers an outstanding benefits package including Medical, Dental, 401K plan, Company paid Long Term and Short Term Disability Insurance, Company paid Life and AD&D Insurance, Pet Insurance, a discounted gym membership and tuition reimbursement.
EEO/AAE
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.