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Refinery Operator Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

84 Lumber

Full-Time Forklift Operator

Selbyville, DE

$16 - $17/hr

Over 96% of our store managers began as Manager Trainees, and on average, you can earn your first ... While previous experience is preferred, you will enhance and refine your skills through a ...

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Refinery Operator Trainee information

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How much do refinery operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for refinery operator trainee in the United States is $20.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $23.08 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 a refinery operator trainee?

A refinery operator trainee is an entry-level position in a refinery where individuals learn to operate and monitor equipment used in processing crude oil into various products. Trainees typically receive on-the-job training and may need to obtain safety certifications before advancing to full operator roles.

Is it hard to get into the refinery?

Becoming a refinery operator trainee can be competitive due to the specialized skills required, such as understanding safety protocols and operating complex equipment. Candidates often need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some roles may require technical training or certifications. Entry may involve passing assessments and demonstrating safety awareness, but opportunities are available for those with the right qualifications and training.

How much does a refinery operator trainee make at Valero?

A refinery operator trainee at Valero typically earns around $50,000 to $70,000 annually, depending on experience and location. The role involves learning to operate and monitor refinery equipment, often requiring safety certifications and technical skills.

How hard is it to become a refinery operator?

Becoming a refinery operator trainee typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, along with on-the-job training or technical education. The role involves learning complex processes, safety protocols, and operating specialized equipment, which can take several months to years to master depending on the program and individual aptitude.

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.

More about Refinery Operator Trainee jobs
What cities are hiring for Refinery Operator Trainee jobs? Cities with the most Refinery Operator Trainee job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Refinery Operator jobs? The most popular types of Refinery Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Refinery Operator Trainee jobs? States with the most job openings for Refinery Operator Trainee jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Refinery Operator Trainee jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Refinery Operator Trainee jobs are:
Refinery Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Refinery Operator Trainee job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,512 per year, or $20.9 per hour.
Refinery Supervisor - Rotating Shift - Valdosta, GA

Refinery Supervisor - Rotating Shift - Valdosta, GA

Archer Daniels Midland

Valdosta, GA • On-site

$58K - $108K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Job Description
Refinery Supervisor - Rotating Shift - Valdosta, GA
Summary:
This position will be responsible for provide tactical and strategic support for the Oilseed's Refinery Department with direction provided from the Refinery Superintendent.
Specific Job Duties
  • Maintains close contact with the operations, advising the Superintendent as problems are encountered.
  • Create action plans on how to eliminate bottlenecks and/or losses within Refinery
  • Proactively anticipates challenges and hazards and works to eliminate them before they impact the Refinery area, both for operations and safety
  • Utilize the Performance Excellence pillars to drive out losses and optimize Refinery area
  • Work directly with Maintenance department leaders to prioritize work orders
  • Determine the timing for execution of maintenance work orders as well as schedule and communicate lockout-Tagout activities with operators
  • Ability to complete in-depth and detailed troubleshooting of problematic systems and areas
  • Maintain operational standard work for operators to provide day to day guidance
  • Assists with operational activities on D3 and in field
  • Evaluate, follow-up and qualify trainees on required department competencies while ensuring timely progression of training as needed to further their training experiences
  • Collaborate with Refinery Superintendent to create strategic goals for Refinery to maintain optimal reliability and operations efficiency
  • Enter and approve Work Orders as issues arise that need attention with appropriate prioritization
  • Must be a highly motivated individual and have the ability to motivate others for task completion[MB5]
  • Must be able to work well with others in a team environment, as well as the ability to work well without supervision
  • Excellent attendance and positive attitude on a daily basis is a must
  • Ability to issue hot work and confined space permits
  • Maintain, update, and write all ESLP documentation for Refinery
  • Maintain, update, and write all SOP's for Refinery
  • Assists in equipment periodic inspections
  • Ability to align to department's priorities and self-manage workload accordingly
  • Keep safe practices at the forefront of all activities and positively engage other team members in the safety culture
  • Leads by example through following ADM's Code of Conduct and its Core Values
  • Performs other duties as assigned
Preferred Skills:
  • Experienced Refinery Qualification
  • Good communication skills with the ability to communicate with individuals on multiple levels both internally and externally
  • Mechanical and operations aptitude
  • Strong troubleshooting skills
  • Understanding of Control of Hazardous Energy/Lockout-Tagout policy and procedures
  • In depth knowledge of Wet Mill facility and associated processes outside of Refinery
Environment
  • Work with various chemicals and caustics
  • Work with vibrating equipment on occasional basis
  • Hazards: work on slippery/uneven surfaces and at high elevations on constant basis
  • High and low temperature extremes
  • Work in cramped positions on frequent basis
  • Stand for long periods of time
  • Lift 50 lbs
  • Carry ladders and tools
  • Climb ladders
  • Walk long distances

Excited about this role but don't think you meet every requirement listed? We encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this role or another one of our openings.
ADM requires the successful completion of a background check.
"AJCIND"
REF:107561BR
About ADM
At ADM, we unlock the power of nature to provide access to nutrition worldwide. With industry-advancing innovations, a complete portfolio of ingredients and solutions to meet any taste, and a commitment to sustainability, we give customers an edge in solving the nutritional challenges of today and tomorrow. We're a global leader in human and animal nutrition and the world's premier agricultural origination and processing company. Our breadth, depth, insights, facilities and logistical expertise give us unparalleled capabilities to meet needs for food, beverages, health and wellness, and more. From the seed of the idea to the outcome of the solution, we enrich the quality of life the world over. Learn more at www.adm.com.
#IncludingYou
Diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging are cornerstones of ADM's efforts to continue innovating, driving growth, and delivering outstanding performance. We are committed to attracting and retaining a diverse workforce and create welcoming, truly inclusive work environments - environments that enable every ADM colleague to feel comfortable on the job, make meaningful contributions to our success, and grow their career. We respect and value the unique backgrounds and experiences that each person can bring to ADM because we know that diversity of perspectives makes us better, together.
We welcome everyone to apply. We are committed to ensuring all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment regardless of race, color, ethnicity, disability, religion, national origin, language, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, sexual orientation, age, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law
Benefits and Perks
Enriching the quality of life for the world begins by taking care of our colleagues. In addition to competitive pay, we support your diverse needs with a comprehensive total rewards package to enhance your well-being, including:
  • Physical wellness - medical/Rx, dental, vision and on-site wellness center access or gym reimbursement (as applicable).
  • Financial wellness - flexible spending accounts, health savings account, 401(k) with matching contributions and cash balance plan, discounted employee stock purchasing program, life insurance, disability, workers' compensation, legal assistance, identity theft protection.
  • Mental and social wellness - Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and Colleague Giving Programs (ADM Cares).
Additional benefits include:
  • Paid time off including paid holidays.
  • Adoption assistance and paid maternity and parental leave.
  • Tuition assistance.
  • Company-sponsored training and development resources, such as LinkedIn Learning, language training and mentoring programs.
*Benefits may vary for bargained locations, confirm benefit eligibility with your recruiter.
Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Hourly and salaried non-exempt employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours.
If hired, employees will be in an "at-will position" and the Company reserves the right to modify base pay (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.
The pay range for this position is expected to be between:

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