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Refinery Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

EcoLube Recovery

Refinery Operator

Portland, OR

$22 - $24/hr

As a Refinery Operator, you will be an integral part of our operations, working alongside a team of skilled operators to monitor, regulate, troubleshoot, and safely operate our complex process ...

Rio Tinto

Refinery Operator

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

About the role As a Refinery Operator, you will play a hands-on role in the final and most precise stage of the copper production process: transforming 750-pound copper anodes into the high-purity ...

Twin Rivers Technologies.

Refinery Operator

Quincy, MA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

A Refinery Technician mans a computerized control system on one or more of the refinery systems ... Conduct shift turnover with the relief operator in the control room. * Participate in maintenance ...

Twin Rivers Chemical

Refinery Operator

Quincy, MA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

A Refinery Technician mans a computerized control system on one or more of the refinery systems ... Conduct shift turnover with the relief operator in the control room. * Participate in maintenance ...

Twin Rivers Technologies.

Refinery Operator

Quincy, MA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

A Refinery Technician mans a computerized control system on one or more of the refinery systems ... Conduct shift turnover with the relief operator in the control room. * Participate in maintenance ...

AAK

REFINERY OPERATOR IA

Louisville, KY · On-site

REFINERY OPERATOR IA-Louisville, KY Join our Global Team at our Louisville, KY Manufacturing Facility Making Better Happen for 150 years At AAK, our company purpose is Making Better Happen and we ...

Twin Rivers Technologies

Refinery Operator

Quincy, MA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

A Refinery Technician mans a computerized control system on one or more of the refinery systems ... Conduct shift turnover with the relief operator in the control room. * Participate in maintenance ...

AarhusKarlshamn

REFINERY OPERATOR IA

Louisville, KY

REFINERY OPERATOR IA-Louisville, KY Join our Global Team at our Louisville, KY Manufacturing Facility Making Better Happen for 150 years At AAK, our company purpose is Making Better Happen and we ...

Doe Run

Refinery Operator

Boss, MO

$26.04/hr

The Doe Run Company is seeking a Refinery Operator to form and cast lead, make oxide, and move finished product to meet customer specifications. This rotating position is located at The Buick ...

Doe Run

Refinery Operator

Boss, MO · On-site

$26.04/hr

The Doe Run Company is seeking a Refinery Operator to form and cast lead, make oxide, and move finished product to meet customer specifications. This rotating position is located at The Buick ...

the Doe Run company

Refinery Operator

Boss, MO · On-site

$26.04/hr

The Doe Run Company is seeking a Refinery Operator to form and cast lead, make oxide, and move finished product to meet customer specifications. This rotating position is located at The Buick ...

Perdue Farms

Oil Refinery Operator

Salisbury, MD

$21 - $31.50/hr

As an Oil Refinery Operator, you will operate and monitor refining, bleaching, deodorization, and hydrogenation processes while supporting safe and efficient production operations. You will handle ...

Perdue Farms

Oil Refinery Operator

Salisbury, MD · On-site

$21 - $31.50/hr

As an Oil Refinery Operator, you will operate and monitor refining, bleaching, deodorization, and hydrogenation processes while supporting safe and efficient production operations. You will handle ...

Perdue Farms

Oil Refinery Operator

Salisbury, MD

$21 - $31.50/hr

As an Oil Refinery Operator, you will operate and monitor refining, bleaching, deodorization, and hydrogenation processes while supporting safe and efficient production operations. You will handle ...

CHS, Inc.

Refinery Operator/Maintenance

Mcpherson, KS · On-site

$40.49/hr

We are looking qualified and motivated individuals to support our Refinery Operations and Maintenance functions. Successful candidates will operate and maintain operating units in a safe and ...

CHS, Inc.

Refinery Operator/Maintenance

Mcpherson, KS · On-site

$40.49/hr

We are looking qualified and motivated individuals to support our Refinery Operations and Maintenance functions. Successful candidates will operate and maintain operating units in a safe and ...

Clean Harbors

Refinery Operator I

East Chicago, IN · On-site

Safety-Kleen is seeking a Refinery Operator to join our team in East Chicago, IN. This position will focus on refinery operations as a priority task at the facility. This is a Union position starting ...

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Refinery Operator information

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$12

$22

$33

How much do refinery operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for refinery operator in the United States is $22.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $24.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Refinery Operator Do?

Refinery operators use specialized equipment and machines to transform raw materials into products, such as changing crude oil into gasoline. Most refinery operator jobs are in the oil industry, but other sectors, including the food industry and the metals industry, also utilize refinery operators. As a refinery operator, your primary responsibilities are operating equipment safely, monitoring meters and gauges, and meeting production goals for your area.

How hard is it to become a refinery operator?

Becoming a refinery operator typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, along with on-the-job training or technical schooling. Many positions also require relevant certifications, such as OSHA safety training, and experience working with industrial equipment, making it a role that demands technical skills and safety awareness.

What are refinery operators?

Refinery operators are skilled workers responsible for controlling and monitoring the equipment and processes used to convert raw materials, such as crude oil, into finished products like gasoline, diesel, and other petrochemicals. They ensure that operations run smoothly, safely, and efficiently by adjusting controls, interpreting gauges and meters, and performing routine maintenance. Refinery operators also troubleshoot equipment problems and respond to emergencies to minimize downtime and hazards. Their work is critical to maintaining product quality and meeting production targets in refineries.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Refinery operators typically do not earn $2,000 a day; their salaries usually range from $70,000 to $120,000 annually. High-paying jobs that can reach or exceed $2,000 daily often include specialized roles such as senior executives, certain medical specialists, or highly experienced consultants, but these are not typical for refinery operators. Earning such high daily wages generally requires advanced skills, certifications, or significant experience in specialized fields.

What do you do as a refinery operator?

A refinery operator monitors and controls the equipment used to process crude oil into various petroleum products. They perform inspections, adjust machinery, and ensure safety protocols are followed to maintain efficient and safe operations in the refinery environment.

How much do oil refinery operators make?

Oil refinery operators in Texas typically earn an average annual salary of around $70,000 to $85,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the specific refinery. They often work in shifts and need knowledge of safety protocols and process control systems.

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

To thrive as a Refinery Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, process monitoring skills, and a high school diploma or technical certification in a related field. Familiarity with Distributed Control Systems (DCS), programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and safety protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are important soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and compliant operation of refining processes, minimizing downtime and hazards.

What is the difference between Refinery Operator vs Process Technician?

AspectRefinery OperatorProcess Technician
CertificationsTypically requires OSHA safety training, possibly a high school diploma or equivalentOften requires technical certifications or associate degree in process technology
Work EnvironmentWorks in refinery plants, operating machinery and monitoring equipmentWorks in processing units, troubleshooting, and maintaining equipment
Industry UsageCommonly employed in oil refineries and chemical plantsFound in refineries, chemical manufacturing, and processing facilities

Refinery Operators and Process Technicians both work in refinery environments, but Refinery Operators focus on operating and monitoring equipment, while Process Technicians handle troubleshooting and maintenance tasks. Both roles require safety training and are essential for efficient plant operations.

What are some common challenges faced by refinery operators during shift work, and how can they be managed?

Refinery operators often work in rotating shifts, which can present challenges such as fatigue, maintaining focus during night shifts, and adapting to changing sleep schedules. To manage these challenges, operators are encouraged to follow consistent sleep routines, stay hydrated, and communicate closely with team members to ensure safety and efficiency. Many refineries also provide training on fatigue management and support systems to help operators maintain high performance and safety standards during all shifts.
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Refinery Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Refinery Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Full Time, and 97% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,216 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Refinery Operator

EcoLube Recovery

Portland, OR

$22 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

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EcoLube Recovery, a leading company in the Pacific Northwest, is seeking a dedicated Refinery Operator to join our team in Portland, Oregon. We specialize in the re-refining of used oil into base oils for new motor oils, hydraulic systems, and more. As a Refinery Operator, you will be an integral part of our operations, working alongside a team of skilled operators to monitor, regulate, troubleshoot, and safely operate our complex process equipment. We pride ourselves on our commitment to safety, efficiency, and cost-effective recycling alternatives. Join us and contribute to a sustainable future while advancing your career in a supportive and innovative environment.

Responsibilities
  • Operate the plant through the HMI (Human Machine Interface) to ensure efficient production processes.
  • Load and unload products and raw materials safely and efficiently.
  • Complete daily paperwork accurately and in a timely manner.
  • Regularly clean and inspect system equipment to maintain operational standards.
  • Develop a working knowledge of a variety of equipment used in the refinery process.
  • Participate in plant maintenance, including preventative maintenance, repairs, and diagnosing maintenance-related issues.
  • Ensure a clean and safe work environment through diligent housekeeping practices.
  • Promote safety through personal actions and work habits, adhering to all safety protocols.
Qualifications
  • High School diploma or equivalent.
  • Must be 18+ years old.
  • 1+ years of Production/Manufacturing experience preferred.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
  • Basic operating knowledge of computers, including basic Office suite.
  • Basic math skills.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude preferred.
  • Ability to effectively communicate verbally and in writing in English.
  • Previous experience working in a refinery is beneficial.
  • Manual dexterity sufficient to operate tools and equipment.
  • Ability to climb ladders and work at heights over 30 ft.
  • Ability to lift 40+ pounds, carry 10-20 pounds, push/pull up to 250 pounds with mechanical assistance.
Benefits
  • Competitive wages
  • Comprehensive health benefits coverage from the first day of full-time employment
  • Group 401K with company matching component
  • Opportunities for growth and development
  • Paid time off
  • Positive and safe work environments
  • A variety of shifts available