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Refinery Instrumentation Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

May estimate, plan, schedule and execute refinery turnarounds from the planning stages through completion * May oversee maintenance of all electrical and instrumentation equipment in the plant ...

May estimate, plan, schedule and execute refinery turnarounds from the planning stages through completion * May oversee maintenance of all electrical and instrumentation equipment in the plant ...

Calibrate and/or troubleshoot process instrumentation * Inspect for conformity to industry ... We are a world leader in grain origination, storage, distribution, oilseed processing and refining ...

Calibrate and/or troubleshoot process instrumentation * Inspect for conformity to industry ... We are a world leader in grain origination, storage, distribution, oilseed processing and refining ...

Refinery Instrumentation information

See Kansas salary details

$13

$25

$68

How much do refinery instrumentation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for refinery instrumentation in Kansas is $25.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.41 and $26.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is instrumentation in a refinery?

Refinery instrumentation involves installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting control systems and devices that monitor and regulate processes such as temperature, pressure, flow, and level. Instrumentation technicians use tools like calibrators and sensors to ensure safe and efficient operation of refinery equipment, often working with control systems like DCS or PLCs. Proper instrumentation is essential for process safety, quality, and compliance in refinery operations.

Which oil refinery pays the most?

Refinery instrumentation roles typically pay higher salaries at large, integrated oil companies such as ExxonMobil, Shell, and Chevron, especially for experienced technicians with specialized skills and certifications. Salaries can vary based on location, experience, and shift differentials, with some of the highest wages found in regions with high cost of living or in offshore facilities.

What are the common daily responsibilities for someone in Refinery Instrumentation?

In a Refinery Instrumentation role, your daily responsibilities typically include installing, calibrating, maintaining, and troubleshooting various process instrumentation and control systems to ensure smooth plant operations. You will regularly perform preventive maintenance, address equipment failures, and work closely with operations and engineering teams to resolve issues quickly. Documentation of maintenance activities, adherence to safety procedures, and ongoing system upgrades are also part of the role. This position often involves a blend of fieldwork and technical analysis, making it ideal for those who enjoy hands-on problem-solving and supporting critical refinery functions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Refinery Instrumentation position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Refinery Instrumentation, you need a solid background in electronics, instrumentation, process control, and troubleshooting, often supported by a diploma or degree in instrumentation engineering or a related technical field. Familiarity with distributed control systems (DCS), programmable logic controllers (PLCs), HART communicators, and recognized certifications like ISA Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST) are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills are vital for diagnosing issues and liaising with cross-functional teams. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of refinery processes, minimizing downtime and maintaining compliance with industry standards.

Where do instrumentation technicians make the most money?

Instrumentation technicians tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a strong industrial or energy sector, such as areas with large refineries, chemical plants, or power plants. Salaries are also influenced by experience, certifications, and the complexity of the instrumentation systems they work on, with those working overtime or in hazardous environments often earning more.

What is a Refinery Instrumentation job?

A Refinery Instrumentation job involves installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting instruments and control systems that monitor and regulate refinery processes. This includes sensors, transmitters, controllers, and automation systems that ensure operational efficiency and safety. Instrumentation technicians work with pressure, temperature, flow, and level measurement devices to optimize refinery performance. They also perform routine calibrations, inspections, and repairs to prevent equipment failures. Strong knowledge of electrical systems, control loops, and industry standards is essential for this role.

Is instrumentation in high demand?

Refinery instrumentation professionals are in steady demand due to the ongoing need for maintenance, calibration, and installation of control systems in the oil and gas industry. Skilled workers with knowledge of PLCs, sensors, and safety standards are particularly sought after, especially in facilities with aging infrastructure or expanding operations.
What are popular job titles related to Refinery Instrumentation jobs in Kansas? For Refinery Instrumentation jobs in Kansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Refinery Instrumentation job openings in Kansas as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 8% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,411 per year, or $25.7 per hour.
Laboratory & Pilot Plant Specialist

Laboratory & Pilot Plant Specialist

Elessent Clean Technologies

Overland Park, KS • On-site

Full-time

Posted 14 hours ago


Job description

Position: Laboratory & Pilot Plant Specialist
Business: Elessent Clean Technologies
Location: Kansas City, Kansas, USA
Experience: 0 - 5 years
About Elessent Clean Technologies
Elessent Clean Technologies is a leading source of solutions for decarbonizing the industrial manufacturing sector and transitioning the industry to a sustainable future. Our clean technology solutions minimize environmental impact and optimize productivity while remaining cost competitive. As a responsible supplier and partner to the metal, fertilizer, chemical, petrochemical, and oil refining industries, our technology portfolio includes MECS® sulfuric acid production, STRATCO® alkylation, BELCO® wet scrubbing and IsoTherming® hydroprocessing. Offering critical process equipment, products, technology, and services, we are dedicated to helping our customers produce high-quality, and cleaner products for the world. Learn more at www.ElessentCT.com or connect with us on LinkedIn.
Job Description:
We are seeking a motivated Laboratory & Pilot Plant Specialist to join our team. This role is focused on our STRATCO® alkylation technology and is ideal for an early-career professional who enjoys hands-on experimental work, solving technical challenges, and working in a collaborative research environment. The successful candidate will support pilot plant operations, laboratory testing, data collection, troubleshooting, and technology development activities.
Key Responsibilities
  • Operate and support pilot-scale alkylation and process research equipment
  • Conduct laboratory experiments, sample preparation, and analytical testing
  • Collect, organize, and document experimental data
  • Troubleshoot instrumentation, laboratory systems, and pilot plant equipment
  • Maintain accurate laboratory records and technical documentation
  • Support preparation, calibration, and maintenance of laboratory instruments and equipment
  • Collaborate with engineers, scientists, and technical staff on research and development projects
  • Follow strict laboratory, process safety, and chemical handling procedures
  • Work safely with sulfuric acid and other hazardous process materials in a laboratory and pilot plant environment
  • Participate in safety reviews, operating procedures, and continuous improvement initiatives
  • Assist with preparation of technical presentations and reports as needed
  • Occasionally support refinery visits, industry conferences, or technical meetings (limited travel required)

Preferred Qualifications and Attributes
  • Bachelor's degree in chemistry or a related technical field
  • Strong hands-on laboratory or mechanical skills and technical aptitude
  • 3+ years of relevant laboratory, pilot plant, industrial, or research experience
  • Familiarity with instrumentation, process equipment, and troubleshooting techniques
  • Experience with analytical equipment and laboratory procedures is beneficial
  • Comfortable working in both laboratory and pilot plant environments
  • Strong organizational and documentation skills
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office and basic data analysis tools
  • Demonstrated initiative and ability to work independently
  • Detail-oriented and highly organized
  • Creative and innovative problem-solving skills
  • Collaborative team players who communicate effectively
  • Curious, hands-on, and motivated to learn
  • Ability to implement innovative ideas into the pilot plant
  • Comfortable working with equipment, instrumentation, and experimental systems
  • Committed to maintaining a strong safety culture and following established procedures

Work Environment
This position is based at the STRATCO® Alkylation Research & Technology Center in Kansas City, Kansas. The role requires being onsite with a 4/10 work schedule and includes a combination of laboratory work, pilot plant operation, and collaborative technical development activities. The position involves working with sulfuric acid and other industrial chemicals in a controlled research environment where safety is a top priority. The position requires some lifting equipment/material (50 lbs). Limited travel to refineries or industry conferences may be required periodically.