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Refinery Operator Trainee Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Job Summary Entry level position for trainee inspector who will ultimately be able to undertake ... Must be able to work in refineries, terminals, and on-board marine vessels as necessary. * Must ...

Job Summary Entry level position for trainee inspector who will ultimately be able to undertake ... Must be able to work in refineries, terminals, and on-board marine vessels as necessary. * Must ...

Refinery Operator Trainee information

See Arizona salary details

$9

$20

$35

How much do refinery operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for refinery operator trainee in Arizona is $20.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.70 and $22.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Refinery Operator Trainee do?

A Refinery Operator Trainee learns how to monitor and control the equipment and processes involved in turning crude oil into usable products such as gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel. They receive on-the-job training to understand safety protocols, read gauges, adjust controls, and troubleshoot issues within the refinery. Trainees often work under the supervision of experienced operators and gradually take on more responsibilities as they gain experience and knowledge. This role is essential for maintaining efficient and safe refinery operations.

What are some typical challenges a Refinery Operator Trainee may face during their initial training period?

As a Refinery Operator Trainee, you may encounter challenges such as mastering complex control systems, understanding detailed safety protocols, and adapting to shift work, which often includes nights and weekends. The learning curve can be steep due to the technical nature of the processes and the need to respond quickly and accurately to potential operational issues. However, most facilities provide structured training programs and mentorship to help trainees build confidence and competence in both routine operations and emergency responses.

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

To thrive as a Refinery Operator Trainee, you need a basic understanding of industrial safety, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with process control systems, instrumentation, and safety certifications like OSHA are commonly required. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies are critical for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable refinery operations in a hazardous environment.

What is the difference between Refinery Operator Trainee vs Refinery Operator?

AspectRefinery Operator TraineeRefinery Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic safety and technical trainingAdditional experience and certifications; advanced technical skills
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised, learning-focusedOperational, hands-on, responsible for daily plant operations
Job ResponsibilitiesLearning safety procedures, basic equipment operationMonitoring processes, adjusting equipment, ensuring safety and efficiency

The main difference is that a Refinery Operator Trainee is in a learning phase, focusing on gaining skills and certifications, while a Refinery Operator is fully responsible for plant operations. Trainees are supervised and gaining experience, whereas operators perform routine and complex tasks independently.

What are popular job titles related to Refinery Operator Trainee jobs in Arizona? For Refinery Operator Trainee jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Refinery Operator Trainee jobs in Arizona look for? The top searched job categories for Refinery Operator Trainee jobs in Arizona are:
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Refinery Operator Trainee jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Refinery Operator Trainee job openings:
Infographic showing various Refinery Operator Trainee job openings in Arizona as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 53% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $42,245 per year, or $20.3 per hour.
Senior Science Training Coordinator, Cancer Center (Full-Time)

Senior Science Training Coordinator, Cancer Center (Full-Time)

University of Arizona

Tucson, AZ • On-site

Other

Posted 5 days ago


University Of Arizona rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 67 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

384th of 612 rated colleges and universities


Job description

ACS Post Baccalaureate:

  • Coordinate the administration of the ACS Post Baccalaureate Fellowship under the direction of the faculty program lead.
  • Coordinate recruitment and outreach efforts in collaboration with partnering programs within and outside of the university system, e.g., community colleges, community training programs, etc.
  • Coordinate matching of fellows to mentors and coordinate academic training activities, professional development sessions, and culminating presentations involving direct communication and interface with trainees and research and clinical faculty at all levels.
  • Monitor program budget activity to ensure appropriate disbursement of funds in accordance with program guidelines.
  • Maintain accurate program records, application files, and correspondence; draft outreach materials with supervisor approval.
  • Refine Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the ACS Post-Baccalaureate Fellowship as needed to ensure smooth program implementation.
  • Coordinate with HR to facilitate UA credentialing for program participants.
  • Contribute to program development and continuous improvement by gathering feedback and supporting evaluation activities.

Training Program Events & Faculty Engagement:

  • Coordinate the planning and execution of academic program events that support CRTEC's educational mission, including seminar series, trainee research presentations, academic workshops, and faculty trainee engagement activities involving direct communication and interface with trainees and research and clinical faculty at all levels.
  • Communicate with faculty, program leaders, and external partners to organize event logistics and schedules.
  • Arrange travel, lodging, reimbursements, and audio visual needs for invited speakers and academic guests.
  • Draft and send invitation letters; prepare event materials; update academic program information on websites and digital displays.
  • Support faculty recruitment visits only as they relate to CRTEC training and education activities.
  • Collaborate with project managers, senior leaders, and administrators to ensure seamless academic event execution.

CRTEC Academic Training & Education Programs:

  • Provide operational support for CRTEC's other training programs, including medical student research experiences, undergraduate/graduate training activities, and professional development workshops held for trainees ranging from middle and high school to early-stage investigator faculty.
  • Assist with recruitment, communications, and logistics for academic sessions, seminars, and trainee presentations.
  • Maintain program documentation, support data collection for program assessment, and assist with preparing basic reports.
  • Contribute to the refinement of program components to align with CRTEC and institutional educational goals.

Communications, Outreach, CRTEC Special Events, and Training Program Marketing:

  • Coordinate with UACC Communications and CRTEC leadership to support academic program outreach and visibility.
  • Contribute content to newsletters, web pages, and digital communications related to CRTEC training and education.
  • Maintain and update CRTEC academic program information on websites and digital platforms.
  • Support development of outreach materials for recruitment and program promotion.
  • Coordinate the planning and logistics for CRTEC special events, including retreats, symposia, trainee showcases, and educational meetings.
  • Manage logistics including venue coordination, registration, catering, audio visual needs, and event materials.
  • Track event budgets and coordinate schedules with faculty and stakeholders.
  • Provide on site support to ensure smooth event operations.
  • Ensure all events reinforce CRTEC's training and education mission.

Program Assessment, Reporting, and Resource Support:

  • Contribute to data collection, entry, and analysis to complete program assessment, capture trainee outcomes, and meet internal/external reporting needs.
  • Assist in preparing basic reports related to CRTEC academic programs.
  • Contribute to resource planning by monitoring program expenditures and assisting with budget tracking for academic program activities.
  • Provide input to improve program processes, documentation, and evaluation practices.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Knowledge of academic program administration, training program coordination, or higher education operations.
  • Demonstrated expertise in planning, coordinating and hosting events and symposiums involving faculty, students, guest speakers and community members. 
  • Strong organizational and time management skills.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
  • Ability to coordinate multiple academic projects with diverse stakeholders.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office, web content updates, and basic data management.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast paced academic environment.
  • Professionalism, discretion, and attention to detail.

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