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Refinery Operator Trainee Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

S. division of DEMGY Group , we have been operating in the Chicago area since 1970 * We serve the ... Refine Toolroom Processes to support the Production team in achieving company Quality and On-Time ...

PartTime Call Center

Plainfield, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/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 Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$21

$37

How much do refinery operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for refinery operator trainee in Chicago, IL is $21.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.54 and $23.69 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 cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Refinery Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Refinery Operator Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various Refinery Operator Trainee job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Full Time, 56% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,661 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Toolroom Supervisor

Elk Grove Village, IL

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Are you an experienced moldmaker who wants to continue your work as a moldmaker while also guiding your peers?

Demgy Chicago is a premiere Injection Molding Company looking for a skilled Moldmaker to be our Toolroom Supervisor and lead our Tooling department.

As our Toolroom Supervisor you will play a key role in building our Tool Room team, as part of our ongoing commitment to our employees' continuing development.

Interested? Please click on the link and take 10 minutes to complete the following: Demgy Chicago, LLC. (Include your resume so that we can contact you.)

About Demgy Chicago:

A Plastics News Best Places to Work Company in 2026 and 2025, we pride ourselves on being an employee-centric company where your work counts and your expertise matters.

  • A U.S. division of DEMGY Group, we have been operating in the Chicago area since 1970
  • We serve the Medical, Aerospace, and Industrial Equipment industries
  • Our facility has a team of 56 people, and we are growing

At Demgy Chicago, you will

  • Secure your Future: 401(k) with weekly company match
  • Secure your Peace of Mind: paid Personal/Sick leave
  • Secure your Health: Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance with Platinum, Gold and Silver Options
  • Enjoy your Free Time: 10 Paid Holidays and paid Vacation

Job Skill Requirements

  • Journeyman moldmaker with heavy experience in plastic injection molds
  • Ability to work well with colleagues both inter-departmentally and intra-departmentally
  • Supervisor or Manager experience

Tooling Responsibilities

  • Complete mold repairs, mold preventive maintenance and make recommendations to improve mold longevity and/or to replace tooling as needed
  • Build assembly and machining fixtures

Supervisory Responsibilities

  • Refine Toolroom Processes to support the Production team in achieving company Quality and On-Time Delivery goals
  • Direct and manage day-to-day tool room operations and toolroom personnel
  • Work with production and engineering to determine toolroom support requirements; prioritize and assign tasks as needed
  • Interface with vendors to ensure the timeliness and quality of external tooling work
  • Determine future resource needs for personnel and equipment and make recommendations to site management
  • Mentor moldmaker apprentices and other trainees as needed

Interested? We'd love to see your resume and learn a little more about you.

To be considered, go to https://go.cultureindex.com/s/Q6FaXGaSsC