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Refinery Internship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

College engineering internship preferred; oil and refinery internship highly desirable * Demonstrated knowledge of economic principles, project management and customer service required * Demonstrated ...

College engineering internship preferred; oil and refinery internship highly desirable * Demonstrated knowledge of economic principles, project management and customer servicerequired * Demonstrated ...

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Refinery Internship information

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How much do refinery internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for refinery internship in the United States is $15.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.50 and $17.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a refinery internship?

A refinery internship is a temporary position offered to students or recent graduates to gain hands-on experience working at a petroleum or chemical refinery. Interns typically assist with engineering, operations, maintenance, or safety tasks under the supervision of experienced professionals. These internships provide valuable insight into refinery processes, safety protocols, and industry standards, helping participants build skills and make informed career decisions. Interns may also have opportunities to network, attend training sessions, and work on real-world projects that support the refinery’s operations.

What is the difference between Refinery Internship vs Refinery Technician?

AspectRefinery InternshipRefinery Technician
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or completed a relevant degree (e.g., chemical, mechanical engineering)Associate's or bachelor's degree in engineering or technical field, sometimes certifications
Work EnvironmentStructured, training-focused, often temporary or seasonalFull-time, hands-on operational environment in refineries
Employer & Industry UsageInternships offered by oil companies for training and recruitmentFull-time roles in refining plants, maintenance, and operations

Refinery internships are designed for students or recent graduates gaining industry experience, while refinery technicians are full-time employees responsible for operational tasks. Internships serve as a pathway to technician roles, which require more hands-on skills and certifications.

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

To thrive as a Refinery Intern, you generally need a background in chemical, mechanical, or industrial engineering, strong analytical abilities, and a solid understanding of safety protocols. Familiarity with industry-specific software such as process simulation tools (e.g., Aspen HYSYS), Microsoft Office Suite, and exposure to safety management systems is often required. Proactive communication, eagerness to learn, and teamwork are important soft skills that help interns adapt quickly and collaborate effectively with experienced professionals. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safety, supporting operational efficiency, and gaining valuable industry experience in a high-stakes environment.

What types of projects or tasks can I expect to work on during a Refinery Internship?

As a Refinery Intern, you can expect to participate in a variety of hands-on projects that support plant operations, process optimization, safety initiatives, or environmental compliance. Typical tasks may include assisting with data analysis, conducting site inspections, creating reports, and supporting engineers with troubleshooting equipment or process issues. Many interns also collaborate with cross-functional teams such as maintenance, safety, and quality assurance. These experiences provide valuable insight into refinery operations and can help you develop both technical and teamwork skills essential for a future career in the industry.
What cities are hiring for Refinery Internship jobs? Cities with the most Refinery Internship job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Refinery jobs? The most popular types of Refinery jobs are:
What states have the most Refinery Internship jobs? States with the most job openings for Refinery Internship jobs include:
Infographic showing various Refinery Internship job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 11% Full Time, 87% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,333 per year, or $15.5 per hour.
Process Engineer III

Process Engineer III

CVR Energy, Inc.

Coffeyville, KS • On-site

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY
Under the direction of the Process Engineering Supervisor, support the Operations Superintendent in monitoring the product specifications. Small capital project design & development to increase the productivity and efficiency of the refinery. Provide assistance to Project Engineering and outside consultants and firms in monitoring efficiency, expansion purposes. Provide support to Operations in unit monitoring & optimization to achieve the refinery's goals. Provide support to the Process Safety Management group in supporting process safety and adherence to regulatory requirements.
EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
  • Bachelor Science Degree in Chemical, Mechanical or Petroleum Engineering required; Chemical Engineering Degree preferred

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
  • 4+ years of relevant work experience required
  • College engineering internship preferred; oil and refinery internship highly desirable
  • Demonstrated knowledge of economic principles, project management and customer service required
  • Demonstrated knowledge of MS Office software packages including Excel required
  • Desire to work in a manufacturing environment and to address mechanical issues
  • Familiarity with Process Modeling Software preferred
  • Fluent in English, oral and written required
  • Demonstrated competencies of priority setting and organizational agility
  • Demonstrated competencies of developing peer relations, participating as a team member and leading others
  • Ability to analyze, reason and solve increasingly complex problems
  • Ability to adjust to frequent change and adjust schedule as needed to reach Departmental goals

MAJOR ACCOUNTABILITIES
  • Provide Technical Support for the Plant Operations
  • Will be assigned to a specific unit(s) within the Refinery with responsibilities of daily monitoring and troubleshooting of the area(s), process optimization, design and development of capital projects
  • Work in a team environment with operators and engineers to maintain and troubleshoot problems as well as propose applications for the process units
  • Work directly with Drafting and other Engineers on small project scopes in order to receive appropriate design and size of equipment needed
  • Provide support for Process Catalysts and Chemicals bidding. Contact Vendors for information and to provide Vendors with appropriate information
  • Assist in the planning of unit shutdowns and startups. Administer plant performance test runs as needed, provide any operational data or drawings required to vendors or maintenance if needed
  • Track performance data using spreadsheets or providing information to vendors
  • Provide information to Project Engineering for expansion purposes. Collect Lab Data or Operation Data to provide to Project Engineering group or outside vendors
  • Work with Computer personnel with TDC/APC control system to help improve monitoring
  • Research and monitor upcoming technology changes to improve future strategies within the Refinery
  • Provide after hours and turnaround (12 hr shift) support as needed in support of maintenance and operations
  • Consistently keep supervisor advised of progress via oral and written reports.
  • Participate in an incident investigation as a lead or a team member
  • Support PSM functions such as Management of Change (MOCs) and Process Hazardous Analysis for assigned units

EXPECTED RESULTS
  • Assist with increasing productivity and efficiency of the refinery
  • Aid optimizing the Process, Design and Development of Projects
  • Performance aligns with Safety, Environmental Compliance, Reliability, and Operating Excellence
  • Ensure product specifications are being met
  • Reduce down time, proper bidding and thorough planning
  • Develop level of competence and trust so others seek guidance
  • Assigned projects are complete within deadlines and budgets
  • Adherence to all company policies and procedures

Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States. The Company will not sponsor immigration or work visas.
CVR Energy is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We encourage qualified minority, female, veteran, and disabled candidates to apply.