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Refinery Laboratory Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Biologist III

Washington, DC · On-site

$98K - $139K/yr

Design and lead laboratory staff working in a biological safety level (BSL)-2 environment. * Work directly with project managers and customers to determine and refine study objectives and ...

ABOUT MICROBAC Microbac Laboratories, Inc. is a premier commercial laboratory testing firm that ... We embody a company-wide commitment to exceptional customer experience, which has been refined by ...

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Refinery Laboratory information

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$37

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How much do refinery laboratory jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for refinery laboratory in Washington is $37.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.42 and $43.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a refinery laboratory?

A Refinery Laboratory job involves testing and analyzing raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products to ensure they meet quality and safety standards. Lab technicians use various instruments to measure chemical composition, viscosity, density, and other properties. They play a crucial role in maintaining refinery efficiency and regulatory compliance. Additionally, they help troubleshoot production issues by identifying contaminants or inconsistencies in samples.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of someone working in a refinery laboratory?

As a refinery laboratory professional, your day generally involves collecting and analyzing samples of crude oil, intermediate products, and finished fuels to ensure quality control and regulatory compliance. You will use advanced analytical instruments to perform tests, document results, and communicate findings to engineering or production teams. The role often includes calibrating and maintaining lab equipment, troubleshooting technical issues, and adhering to strict safety protocols. You may also participate in cross-functional meetings to address quality concerns and optimize refining processes, making collaboration and communication skills essential for success.

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

To thrive in a Refinery Laboratory role, you need a solid understanding of analytical chemistry, refinery processes, and laboratory testing methodologies, often supported by a degree in chemistry or chemical engineering. Familiarity with laboratory instruments such as gas chromatographs, spectrometers, and LIMS (Laboratory Information Management Systems), as well as industry certifications like OSHA safety training, is typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are important soft skills in this setting. These competencies ensure accurate quality control, safe operations, and compliance with industry standards in refinery environments.

Infographic showing various Refinery Laboratory job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,047 per year, or $37 per hour.

Electrical/Computer Engineer

Laurel, MD • On-site


Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory
Manufacturing • 5 - 10K employees

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 74 rated research

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer


Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Description
Are you searching for an opportunity to apply your engineering skills in a creative and collaborative laboratory environment? Would you love to engage in meaningful, hands-on work in the exciting field of electronics and acoustics with an employer that prioritizes impact, innovation, and personal development?
If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Lab (JHU/APL)!
We are seeking a creative Electrical Engineer to join the Engineering and Test Group. As a member of our team, you'll contribute to critical system development and experimental efforts. You will be joining a dynamic team committed to crafting an environment of innovation.
As a member of our team, you will:
  • Develop and maintain software for laboratory testbeds and prototype systems, using tools such as LabVIEW, MATLAB, and Python. Contribute to brainstorming and development of new initiatives and concepts in maritime sensing through research and development (R&D) efforts.
  • Support laboratory testing and systems engineering activities by configuring data acquisition systems, automating test procedures, and analyzing measurement data from electrical and imaging systems.
  • Implement and refine custom sensor interfaces in software, including signal conditioning, filtering, and A/D and D/A control within DAQ frameworks.
  • Develop and optimize control and monitoring routines for distributed electronic and sensing systems, applying control theory and system modeling where appropriate.
  • Support field integration and testing of developed systems, including deployment of data acquisition and control software, data collection, and post-test analysis.

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Bachelor's degree in electrical/computer engineering or equivalent.
  • At least 3 years of demonstrated proficiency with scientific or engineering software tools (e.g., LabVIEW, MATLAB, Python) in a professional environment.
  • Hands-on experience with data acquisition and collection, basic signal processing, and automated test or control scripts using tools such as LabVIEW, MATLAB, and/or Python.
  • Demonstrated ability to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team and possess strong interpersonal, speaking, and technical writing skills.
  • Are able to obtain a Secret level security clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...
  • Master's degree in electrical/computer engineering or equivalent.
  • Experience with real-time data acquisition systems, test automation frameworks, and integration of software with laboratory instrumentation (e.g., DAQ hardware, sensors, and measurement equipment).
  • Familiarity with control theory, feedback control implementation, and system modeling in tools such as MATLAB/Simulink or Python is a plus.
  • 5+ years of relevant professional experience.
  • Active Department of Defense Secret security clearance.

About Us
Why Work at APL?
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.
The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Minimum Rate
$100,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$245,000 Annually


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