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Refinery Operator Trainee Jobs in Carson, CA (NOW HIRING)

This role is located at Torrance Refining Company in Torrance, CA. Job Summary Process Operator Trainees monitor, operate, troubleshoot and repair refinery units and equipment and perform other ...

This role is located at Torrance Refining Company in Torrance, CA. Job Summary Process Operator Trainees monitor, operate, troubleshoot and repair refinery units and equipment and perform other ...

PartTime Call Center

Signal Hill, CA · On-site

$17 - $21.25/hr

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 Carson, CA salary details

$9

$20

$35

How much do refinery operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for refinery operator trainee in Carson, CA is $20.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.06 and $22.95 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 Carson, CA?

For Refinery Operator Trainee jobs in Carson, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Carson, CA are hiring for Refinery Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities near Carson, CA with the most Refinery Operator Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various Refinery Operator Trainee job openings in Carson, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,271 per year, or $20.8 per hour.

Process Operator Trainee

Torrance, CA


Pbf Energy
Oil and Gas Extraction • 1 - 5K employees

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Good employer

Paid breaks


$43.08/hr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Process Operator Trainee

PBF Energy Inc. (NYSE:PBF) is one of the largest independent refiners in North America, operating, through its subsidiaries, oil refineries and related facilities. We are a growing organization seeking talented Process Operators to join our team as a pivotal member here at PBF Energy. This role is located at Torrance Refining Company in Torrance, CA.

Job Summary

Process Operator Trainees monitor, operate, troubleshoot and repair refinery units and equipment and perform other activities as needed to support the safe operation of the refinery. Starting pay is $43.08 per hour. Successful candidates will receive on-site training. Our Company is committed to safe and environmentally compliant operations so Operators must follow all procedures and safe work practices. People from various work backgrounds can do equally well in operations if they have the technical interest, work ethic, integrity, curiosity and initiative required to join our organization.

Key Responsibilities

  • Operates a variety of equipment such as pumps, compressors, valves and control systems.

  • Physically inspects and monitors equipment and work area using vision, hearing, smell and touch to ensure correct operation.

  • Performs equipment maintenance such as adding lube oil, water, tightening valve packing, changing filters and steam traps, clearing equipment, etc.

  • Operates heavy pneumatic and hydraulic equipment to head and de-head coke drums.

  • Communicates with Console Supervisor and other employees to exchange information on process conditions and relate any changes made or needed.

  • Prepares equipment for maintenance and issues safe work permits.

  • Performs cleaning and housekeeping of assigned units.

  • Understands process flow, basic chemistry associated with assigned units, equipment line-ups, and all unit safety equipment, including isolation points.

  • Reviews computer data and computer generated schematics to ensure process is optimized.

  • Collects and logs operating data.

  • Read and understand technical procedures and materials.

  • Learn computer software associated with process operations.

Required Qualifications:

  • 5 year refining experience or completion of a Process Technology Program

  • Must be at least 18 years of age

  • High school diploma or equivalent

  • Must hold a valid driver's license

  • Must be willing to perform/comply with the following:

    • Satisfactory pass all required training

    • Follow all site safety and operating procedures

    • Work 12-hour rotating shift rotation which includes working nights, weekends and holidays

    • Work overtime as required

    • Work and collaborate in a team environment

    • Work in enclosed/confined spaces such as tanks and vessels

    • Climb equipment up to 250 feet in height

    • Work near large, hot, high-speed machines

    • Lift a minimum of 50 pounds

    • Work around chemicals, including acids and bases

    • Wear fire retardant clothing, respirator, ear and eye protection and other personal protective equipment

    • Work outside in harsh weather conditions

    • Work with petroleum products that are under high pressure and heat

    • Communicate clearly via 2-way radio in English

Preferred Qualifications

  • Associate's degree or Technical certification in Process Technology

  • Previous manufacturing experience

  • Previous safety, health, & environmental background

This description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee.

This position is subject to federally mandated drug/alcohol testing.

The wage for this position is $43.08/hour. The compensation listed in this posting is in compliance with applicable state law. Factors such as scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/training, job-related skills and internal peer equity will be considered in determining the selected candidate's compensation. In addition to salary, PBF offers a comprehensive and generous benefits package.

We thank all respondents for their interest in PBF Holding Company LLC ("PBF Energy"), however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Please no phone calls or emails to any employee of PBF Energy about this requisition. Placement agencies or recruiters need not respond. All resumes submitted by search firms to any employee of PBF Energy via email, the Internet or in any method without a valid written search agreement will be deemed the sole property of PBF Energy. No fee will be paid in the event the candidate is hired by PBF Energy as a result of the referral or through other means.

PBF Energy is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, reproductive health decision making, national origin, ancestry, genetic information, physical or mental disability, medical condition, marital status, age, veteran and military status, or any other status protected by applicable law. We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations as required by law.

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