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Refinery Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Analytical Problem‑Solving -- Strong ability to assess challenges and refine engineering approaches to improve outcomes. * Team Collaboration -- Promotes a culture of learning, craftsmanship, and ...

Analytical Problem-Solving - Strong ability to assess challenges and refine engineering approaches to improve outcomes. * Team Collaboration - Promotes a culture of learning, craftsmanship, and ...

Analytical Problem Solving - Strong ability to assess challenges and refine engineering approaches to improve outcomes. * Team Collaboration - Promotes a culture of learning, craftsmanship, and ...

Lead Building Engineer

Southfield, MI

$94K - $123K/yr

Search for ways to refine Engineering procedures and expand accomplishments. * Coordinate, oversee, and participate in the successful completion of assigned duties of the Engineering group as ...

Lead Building Engineer

Southfield, MI · On-site

$94K - $123K/yr

Search for ways to refine Engineering procedures and expand accomplishments. * Coordinate, oversee, and participate in the successful completion of assigned duties of the Engineering group as ...

Lead Building Engineer

Southfield, MI

$94K - $123K/yr

Search for ways to refine Engineering procedures and expand accomplishments. * Coordinate, oversee, and participate in the successful completion of assigned duties of the Engineering group as ...

Sr. Software Engineer

Jackson, MI

$111K - $146K/yr

Analytical Problem‑Solving -- Strong ability to assess challenges and refine engineering approaches to improve outcomes. * Team Collaboration -- Promotes a culture of learning, craftsmanship, and ...

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Refinery Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$51.9K

$97.3K

$176.9K

How much do refinery engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for refinery engineer in Michigan is $97,298.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,200.00 and $115,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Refinery Engineers?

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 engineers make $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Senior roles requiring advanced skills, certifications, and leadership responsibilities are typically associated with such high compensation levels.

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 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.

Can you make $200,000 a year as a mechanical engineer?

Refinery engineers, a specialized type of mechanical engineer, can potentially earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and working in high-paying industries or locations. However, typical salaries vary based on factors such as geographic region, level of expertise, and employer size, with many earning between $80,000 and $150,000 per year.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior refinery engineers, especially those with extensive experience, specialized skills, and advanced certifications, can earn $300,000 or more annually. High salaries are often associated with leadership roles, complex projects, or working in high-cost-of-living areas within the energy and petrochemical industries.

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

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 job categories do people searching Refinery Engineer jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Refinery Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
Infographic showing various Refinery Engineer job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,298 per year, or $46.8 per hour.
Intern/Co-op - Refining Mechanical Engineer (Spring 2027)

Intern/Co-op - Refining Mechanical Engineer (Spring 2027)

Marathon Petroleum Corporation

Detroit, MI

$32.92/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago


Marathon Petroleum rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 201 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

49th of 75 rated oil and gas companies


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.

Responsibilities:

As a Mechanical 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 engineering disciplines work together as a cohesive team. You will also gain knowledge of various aspects of a refinery by working with a team of professionals who run a specific portion of the refining process. Most often, Mechanical Engineers will have an opportunity to work on more than one area of the refinery, leading to a broad understanding of how the plant operates. Finally, you will have the opportunity to expand your written and verbal presentation skills in a professional work environment.

The majority of Mechanical Engineering co-ops and interns enter into the following positions:

Area Refining Engineer/Project Engineersdevelop and use project management skills to create project scopes, estimates, and schedules. Once a project is developed and approved, you, as the project manager, will oversee the design effort and assist in the construction process. MPC will provide training and educational opportunities to help you develop your knowledge of other engineering disciplines. We are committed to developing engineers into professional project managers who can successfully manage projects of all sizes.

Reliability Engineerssupport the refinery's Maintenance Department through design and development of equipment related improvements. Such improvements include root cause failure analysis, optimization of maintenance programs in rotating equipment (pumps, compressors, etc.), and troubleshooting fixed equipment (refinery pressure vessels, heat exchangers, piping systems, etc.). Reliability Engineers will also be continuously challenged to find new technology in design, materials and repair methods to achieve refinery goals of longer running times at lower costs.

Qualifications:

  • Candidates must be majoring in Mechanical Engineering or Civil Engineering
  • Strong academic performance
  • Candidates must be authorized to work in the US on a full-time indefinite basis without the need for employment visa sponsorship now or in the future.
  • Positions are available spring, summer, and fall semesters
  • Availability for multiple work terms is preferred
  • A valid driver's license is required
  • Concurrent enrollment in a degree seeking program
  • Military experience a plus
  • MIN - $32.92 per hour / MAX - $41.67 per hour

Learn more about Marathon Petroleum's benefits at www.mympcbenefits.com

As an energy industry leader, our career opportunities fuel personal and professional growth.

Location:

Findlay, Ohio

Job Requisition ID:

00020137

Pay Min/Max:

$0.00 - $999.99 Hourly

Grade:

HRLY1

Location Address:

539 S Main St

Additional locations:

Anacortes, Washington, Canton, Ohio, Catlettsburg, Kentucky, Detroit, Michigan, El Paso, Texas, Garyville, Louisiana, Kenai, Alaska, Mandan, North Dakota, Martinez CA Refinery, Robinson, Illinois, Salt Lake City, Utah, St Paul Park, Minnesota, Texas City, Texas, Wilmington, California

Education:

High School (Required)

Employee Group:

Part time

Employee Subgroup:

Intern

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 atmympcbenefits.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