... petrochemical, refining, and specialty chemicals industries. Together, we can create a legacy ... Interpret process diagrams, analyzer data, and computer trends to maintain optimal operating ...
New
... petrochemical, refining, and specialty chemicals industries. Together, we can create a legacy ... Interpret process diagrams, analyzer data, and computer trends to maintain optimal operating ...
New
Heavy Equipment Operator
Texas City, TX · On-site
... refinery and natural gas coproducts. Oxbow produces and distributes calcined and fuel grade ... Oxbow is currently looking for an Operator Trainee 1 to join our team in Texas City, Texas. This ...
Heavy Equipment Operator
Texas City, TX · On-site
... refinery and natural gas coproducts. Oxbow produces and distributes calcined and fuel grade ... Oxbow is currently looking for an Operator Trainee 1 to join our team in Texas City, Texas. This ...
Heavy Equipment Operator
Texas City, TX · On-site
$26.15/hr
... refinery and natural gas coproducts. Oxbow produces and distributes calcined and fuel grade ... Oxbow is currently looking for an Operator Trainee 1 to join our team in Texas City, Texas. This ...
Heavy Equipment Operator
Texas City, TX · On-site
$26.15/hr
... refinery and natural gas coproducts. Oxbow produces and distributes calcined and fuel grade ... Oxbow is currently looking for an Operator Trainee 1 to join our team in Texas City, Texas. This ...
Pipeline Controller I
Houston, TX · On-site
... refined products along the Gulf and East Coast, and major river systems, the production and ... operator) * Trainee will shadow a Controller 3 for 4-6 months depending on learning curve and ...
New
Pipeline Controller I
Houston, TX · On-site
... refined products along the Gulf and East Coast, and major river systems, the production and ... operator) * Trainee will shadow a Controller 3 for 4-6 months depending on learning curve and ...
New
Technical Trainer
$31 - $41.25/hr
Mentors and trains Basic Operator Trainees. * Provides test remediation and reassessment support ... Process operations experience in a refinery environment preferred. Need more reasons to work for a ...
Technical Trainer
$31 - $41.25/hr
Mentors and trains Basic Operator Trainees. * Provides test remediation and reassessment support ... Process operations experience in a refinery environment preferred. Need more reasons to work for a ...
Technical Trainer
Houston, TX · On-site
$31 - $41.25/hr
Mentors and trains Basic Operator Trainees. * Provides test remediation and reassessment support ... Process operations experience in a refinery environment preferred. Need more reasons to work for a ...
Technical Trainer
Houston, TX · On-site
$31 - $41.25/hr
Mentors and trains Basic Operator Trainees. * Provides test remediation and reassessment support ... Process operations experience in a refinery environment preferred. Need more reasons to work for a ...
... operating procedures. * Monitor testing environments to identify and help mitigate background ... Sufficient personal mobility to maneuver safely within a refinery or plant environment, including ...
... operating procedures. * Monitor testing environments to identify and help mitigate background ... Sufficient personal mobility to maneuver safely within a refinery or plant environment, including ...
... operating procedures. * Monitor testing environments to identify and help mitigate background ... Sufficient personal mobility to maneuver safely within a refinery or plant environment, including ...
Quick apply
... operating procedures. * Monitor testing environments to identify and help mitigate background ... Sufficient personal mobility to maneuver safely within a refinery or plant environment, including ...
... operating procedures. * Monitor testing environments to identify and help mitigate background ... Sufficient personal mobility to maneuver safely within a refinery or plant environment, including ...
... operating procedures. * Monitor testing environments to identify and help mitigate background ... Sufficient personal mobility to maneuver safely within a refinery or plant environment, including ...
Inspector
Pasadena, TX · On-site
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 ...
Inspector
Pasadena, TX · On-site
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 ...
Inspector
Baytown, TX · On-site
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 ...
Inspector
Baytown, TX · On-site
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 ...
Inspector 1
La Porte, TX · On-site
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 ...
Inspector 1
La Porte, TX · On-site
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 ...
Inspector
Texas City, TX · On-site
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 ...
Inspector
Texas City, TX · On-site
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 ...
Inspector 1
Pasadena, TX · On-site
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 ...
Inspector 1
Pasadena, TX · On-site
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 ...
LPG Inspector
Pasadena, TX · On-site
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 ...
LPG Inspector
Pasadena, TX · On-site
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 ...
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 ...
Inspector
Texas City, TX · On-site
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 ...
Inspector
Texas City, TX · On-site
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 ...
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 ...
Inspector
Pasadena, TX · On-site
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 ...
Inspector
Pasadena, TX · On-site
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 ...
PartTime Call Center
Pasadena, TX · On-site
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 ...
PartTime Call Center
Pasadena, TX · On-site
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 Houston, TX salary details
$9.32 - $11.65
5% of jobs
$11.65 - $13.98
13% of jobs
$14.69 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$13.98 - $16.31
23% of jobs
The median wage is $17.55 / hr.
$16.31 - $18.64
17% of jobs
$18.64 - $20.97
14% of jobs
$21.55 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$20.97 - $23.30
14% of jobs
$23.30 - $25.63
12% of jobs
$25.63 - $27.96
1% of jobs
$27.96 - $30.29
2% of jobs
$30.29 - $32.62
0% of jobs
$32.62 - $34.95
0% of jobs
$9
$20
$34
How much do refinery operator trainee jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for refinery operator trainee in Houston, TX is $20.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.68 and $22.37 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?
| Aspect | Refinery Operator Trainee | Refinery Operator |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | High school diploma or equivalent; basic safety and technical training | Additional experience and certifications; advanced technical skills |
| Work Environment | Training environment, supervised, learning-focused | Operational, hands-on, responsible for daily plant operations |
| Job Responsibilities | Learning safety procedures, basic equipment operation | Monitoring 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 the most commonly searched types of Refinery Operator jobs in Houston, TX?
The most popular types of Refinery Operator jobs in Houston, TX are:
What are popular job titles related to Refinery Operator Trainee jobs in Houston, TX?
For Refinery Operator Trainee jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Refinery Operator Trainee jobs in Houston, TX look for?
The top searched job categories for Refinery Operator Trainee jobs in Houston, TX are:
What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Refinery Operator Trainee jobs?
Cities near Houston, TX with the most Refinery Operator Trainee job openings:
Full-time
Posted yesterday
New
Job description
Are you ready to move your career forward and help shape our company's and customers' futures?
If you aspire to challenge yourself, work with the best in the industry and join a successful team where you can make a meaningful contribution, then we invite you to join us at Ketjen Corporation, a provider of advanced catalyst solutions to leading producers in the petrochemical, refining, and specialty chemicals industries. Together, we can create a legacy marked by innovation, excitement, and energy.
About Ketjen
Ketjen Corporationis aprovider of advanced catalyst solutions to leading producers in the petrochemical, refining, and specialty chemicals industries.Our company is driven by a strong set of core values: curiosity, care, collaboration, humility, accountability, and integrity. These values guide our decisions, shape our culture, and define how we work together to deliver exceptional value to our customers and communities.
About the Role
TheOperator Traineeis responsible formonitoring and controlling equipment and instrumentation necessary for batch or continuous operation of chemical process units to produce quality and on specification products in a safe and timely manner. This role reports directly to theSupervisor Generaland is basedinPasadena, TX at our Bayport Facility.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Operational Excellence
Monitor and control process units and equipment (batch or continuous) to ensure safe, efficient, and on-spec production.
Operate and inspect rotating and stationary equipment including pumps, compressors, reactors, and distillation columns.
Perform product transfers, basic maintenance tasks, and operational calculations for flow, pressure, and temperature control.
Safety, Compliance & Quality
Follow all company procedures and regulatory requirements (PSM, DOT, EPA, OSHA, MOC) to maintain a safe work environment.
Sample and test products for quality control, properly handling hazardous or extreme-temperature materials.
Identify, manage, and dispose of hazardous waste in accordance with company and government standards.
Technical & Process Support
Interpret process diagrams, analyzer data, and computer trends to maintain optimal operating conditions
Maintain accurate logs and records of shift activities, process changes, and production data.
Support troubleshooting, maintenance coordination, and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance reliability.
QUALIFICATIONS
Required Qualifications
Must have a Process Technology degree or 2 years or more of experience in a chemical manufacturing role/environment and a High School Diploma or GED
Strong communication and collaboration skills
Computer skills including spreadsheet use
High level of attention to detail, procedures and documentation
Preferred Qualifications
2 years' experience as a Process Operator in a chemical manufacturing environment.
Benefits of Joining Ketjen
Competitive compensation
Comprehensive benefits package
A diverse array of resources to support you professionally and personally.
Apply today and help Ketjen unleash the POTENTIAL of advanced chemistry for industries that power the world.