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Refinery Operator Trainee Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

T D Williamson

Field Technician, HT&P - Trainee

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$19 - $25.75/hr

... are operating safely and reliably. What sets us apart is our expertise, experience and commitment ... Experience in working overseas and/or in refineries or plants is an asset. Knowledge, Skills, and ...

All JobsRefinery Operator JobsRefinery Operator Trainee JobsRefinery Operator Trainee Jobs in Indiana

Refinery Operator Trainee information

See Indiana salary details

$9

$19

$33

How much do refinery operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for refinery operator trainee in Indiana is $19.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.20 and $21.63 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 Indiana? For Refinery Operator Trainee jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Refinery Operator Trainee jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Refinery Operator Trainee jobs in Indiana are:
Refinery Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Refinery Operator Trainee job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,789 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Field Technician, HT&P - Trainee

T D Williamson

Indianapolis, IN

$19 - $25.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

At TDW we put people first - that means working everyday to ensure the pipelines that run through our communities are operating safely and reliably. What sets us apart is our expertise, experience and commitment.

Each day we dedicate ourselves to treating each other, our customers and our community with care and respect.

Overview

Acquire specific knowledge of TDW Hot Tapping and Plugging equipment and services operations through on the job and formalized trainings to become competent in field service work and get certified.

Key Responsibilities

Primary duties may include, but are not limited to:

  • Assists certified technicians in the handling, assembly, operation and disassembly of TDW HT&P equipment during field operations, keeps up to date on all equipment maintenance and operational procedures to ensure safe, proper maintenance and use of equipment and satisfactory completion of the job,
  • Complies with TDW and customer HSE standards and procedures, and stops any work utilizing TDW equipment when unsafe conditions exist that threaten equipment, property damage or bodily injury,
  • Collaborates with the certified technicians to the equipment shipment from the jobsite and drafting of the list of equipment loaded.
  • Acquires knowledge of TDW HT&P equipment functions, repairs and services to enable efficient field performance for HT&P field applications, and maintenance and repair of TDW HT&P equipment,
  • Learns and applies approved safety procedures to ensure the personal safety of all parties involved in the field work,
  • Follows standard troubleshooting procedures to alleviate problems encountered in the field, ensuring safe and efficient field performance from equipment,
  • Develops ability to respond to customer requirements and address problem solving aspects of all TDW field work.
  • Prepares and submits expense reports in accordance with established procedures.
  • Works in the workshop in equipment preparation/maintenance and stock management as required by the management.
  • Performs other tasks as may be required from time to time by upper management.

Experience

  • Technical graduate combined with three (3) to five (5) years of experience in a mechanical field.
  • Experience in working overseas and/or in refineries or plants is an asset.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Willing to travel extensively.
  • Good communication skills in English, any other language are an asset.

Apply