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Refinery Operator Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Hunt

Process Operator Trainee

Atmore, AL · On-site

$12.75 - $16/hr

Maintain process operating parameters within specified safe and allowable ranges * Recognize ... Minimum of one year's experience in a refinery environment or related industry * Strong knowledge ...

Kanak Elite Services Inc

Finance Analyst

Carolina, AL · On-site

You'll refine operating models and documentation ("Strategic Pursuits Playbook"), streamline reporting, and deliver the insights leaders need to greenlight complex, multi-year infrastructure deals.

Action

Equipment Operator

Decatur, AL

$17 - $23.25/hr

Equipment Operator Department: Direct Labor Location: Decatur, AL Business Unit: Environmental ... Work is performed in industrial environments, including manufacturing facilities, refineries ...

Action Enterprise

Equipment Operator

Decatur, AL · On-site

$17 - $23.25/hr

Equipment Operator Department: Direct Labor Location: Decatur, AL Business Unit: Environmental ... Work is performed in industrial environments, including manufacturing facilities, refineries ...

Bunge North America

Packaging Operator

Decatur, AL · On-site

$26.59/hr

The Packaging Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of packaging equipment ... We are a world leader in grain origination, storage, distribution, oilseed processing and refining ...

Bunge

Packaging Operator

Decatur, AL · On-site

$26.59/hr

The Packaging Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of packaging equipment ... We are a world leader in grain origination, storage, distribution, oilseed processing and refining ...

Bunge

Packaging Operator

Decatur, AL · On-site

$26.59/hr

The Packaging Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of packaging equipment ... We are a world leader in grain origination, storage, distribution, oilseed processing and refining ...

Kronospan

MDF Finishing Operator Trainee

Eastaboga, AL · On-site

To become fully qualified to perform one or more operators' jobs in the MDF finishing area to include Energy Plant, Refiner, and Press Operator. They are also responsible for assisting equipment ...

Kronospan

MDF Finishing Operator Trainee

Eastaboga, AL · On-site

To become fully qualified to perform one or more operators' jobs in the MDF finishing area to include Energy Plant, Refiner, and Press Operator. They are also responsible for assisting equipment ...

Hunt

Planning Engineer I

Tuscaloosa, AL · On-site

Operating and understanding the Sigmafine operating software for yield accounting including offsite terminal information, tracking transfers, receipts, barging activities in and out of the refinery ...

Kronospan

MDF Finishing Operator Trainee

Eastaboga, AL · On-site

To become fully qualified to perform one or more operators' jobs in the MDF finishing area to include Energy Plant, Refiner, and Press Operator. They are also responsible for assisting equipment ...

Hunt Companies

Planning Engineer I

Tuscaloosa, AL · On-site

Operating and understanding the Sigmafine operating software for yield accounting including offsite terminal information, tracking transfers, receipts, barging activities in and out of the refinery ...

Hunt

Planning Engineer I

Tuscaloosa, AL · On-site

Operating and understanding the Sigmafine operating software for yield accounting including offsite terminal information, tracking transfers, receipts, barging activities in and out of the refinery ...

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All JobsRefinery Operator JobsRefinery Operator Jobs in Alabama

Refinery Operator information

See Alabama salary details

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How much do refinery operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for refinery operator in Alabama is $20.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $22.21 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a refinery operator?

Refinery operators are skilled workers responsible for controlling and monitoring the equipment and processes used to convert raw materials, such as crude oil, into finished products like gasoline, diesel, and other petrochemicals. They ensure that operations run smoothly, safely, and efficiently by adjusting controls, interpreting gauges and meters, and performing routine maintenance. Refinery operators also troubleshoot equipment problems and respond to emergencies to minimize downtime and hazards. Their work is critical to maintaining product quality and meeting production targets in refineries.

What does a refinery operator do?

Refinery operators use specialized equipment and machines to transform raw materials into products, such as changing crude oil into gasoline. Most refinery operator jobs are in the oil industry, but other sectors, including the food industry and the metals industry, also utilize refinery operators. As a refinery operator, your primary responsibilities are operating equipment safely, monitoring meters and gauges, and meeting production goals for your area.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a refinery operator?

To thrive as a Refinery Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, process monitoring skills, and a high school diploma or technical certification in a related field. Familiarity with Distributed Control Systems (DCS), programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and safety protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are important soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and compliant operation of refining processes, minimizing downtime and hazards.

What are some common challenges faced by refinery operators during shift work, and how can they be managed?

Refinery operators often work in rotating shifts, which can present challenges such as fatigue, maintaining focus during night shifts, and adapting to changing sleep schedules. To manage these challenges, operators are encouraged to follow consistent sleep routines, stay hydrated, and communicate closely with team members to ensure safety and efficiency. Many refineries also provide training on fatigue management and support systems to help operators maintain high performance and safety standards during all shifts.

What is the difference between Refinery Operator vs Process Technician?

AspectRefinery OperatorProcess Technician
CertificationsTypically requires OSHA safety training, possibly a high school diploma or equivalentOften requires technical certifications or associate degree in process technology
Work EnvironmentWorks in refinery plants, operating machinery and monitoring equipmentWorks in processing units, troubleshooting, and maintaining equipment
Industry UsageCommonly employed in oil refineries and chemical plantsFound in refineries, chemical manufacturing, and processing facilities

Refinery Operators and Process Technicians both work in refinery environments, but Refinery Operators focus on operating and monitoring equipment, while Process Technicians handle troubleshooting and maintenance tasks. Both roles require safety training and are essential for efficient plant operations.

Is it hard to get a refinery operator job?

Getting a refinery operator job can be competitive due to the specialized skills and certifications required, such as process technology knowledge and safety training. Candidates often need relevant experience, technical skills, and sometimes a high school diploma or higher education in related fields. The job involves working in industrial environments with shift schedules and safety protocols.

What do you do as a refinery operator?

A refinery operator monitors and controls the equipment used to process crude oil into various petroleum products. They perform inspections, adjust machinery, and ensure safety protocols are followed, often working in shifts and using control panels and monitoring systems. Certification and knowledge of safety procedures are essential in this role.
More about Refinery Operator jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Refinery Operator jobs in Alabama?

The most popular types of Refinery Operator jobs in Alabama are:

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For Refinery Operator jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Refinery Operator jobs in Alabama look for?

The top searched job categories for Refinery Operator jobs in Alabama are:

What are popular job titles related to Refinery Operator jobs in AL?

For Refinery Operator jobs in AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Refinery Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Refinery Operator job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,889 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Process Operator Trainee

Hunt

Atmore, AL • On-site

$12.75 - $16/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 hours ago

Job description


Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Trains with the Process Operator on the following duties and responsibilities:
  • Conduct field inspections to ensure that operational conditions align with DCS reflected conditions
  • Maintain process operating parameters within specified safe and allowable ranges
  • Recognize, troubleshoot, and correct and/or report process issues.
  • Complete daily production and inventory (material and energy balance) reports
  • Provide supervision and support to Lab and Load Operators

Education and Qualifications
  • High school diploma or GED required. Technical or trade school education preferred
  • Minimum of one year's experience in a refinery environment or related industry
  • Strong knowledge of safe work practices, hazard awareness, and hazard mitigation.
  • Ability to have a good working relationship with Process Operators, Load Rack Operators, Lab Operators, supervisors, engineers and HSE.
  • Open-minded and willing to accept change.
  • Good communication skills (written and verbal) and the ability to lead group discussions.
  • Proficient in the use of personal computers and office software applications
  • Self-motivated with desire to learn and develop new skills.
  • Support management objectives.

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations
  • Valid driver's license.

Language Skills
  • Ability to speak and read English fluently.
  • Ability to effectively communicate with operators, engineers, supervisors, managers, etc.

Physical Demands
  • The physical demands of this position are listed in the following tables:

Amount of Time
Under 1/3 to Over None 1/3 2/3 2/3 Stand X Walk X Sit X Use hands to finger, handle, or feel X Reach with hands and arms X Climb or balance X Stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl X Talk or hear X Taste or smell X
Amount of Time
Lifting: Under 1/3 to Over None 1/3 2/3 2/3 Up to 10 pounds X Up to 25 pounds X Up to 50 pounds X Up to 100 pounds X More than 100 pounds X
Work Environment
  • The environmental conditions for this position are listed in the following table:

Amount of Time
Under 1/3 to Over None 1/3 2/3 2/3 Wet or humid conditions (non-weather) X Work near moving mechanical parts X Work in high, precarious places X Flammable or caustic chemicals X Outdoor weather conditions X Extreme hot/cold (weather related) X Extreme cold (non-weather) X Extreme heat (non-weather) X Risk of electrical shock X Work with explosives X Risk of radiation X Vibration X
  • Noise - This position requires work in loud, high noise areas.
  • This position requires the individual to be certified to use respiratory protection which includes: fresh air work requiring a full-face mask and a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) weighing up to 35 lbs. Conditions during use could be routine maintenance or operations activities, emergency rescue or immediate danger of life and health. Use of such a device requires sufficient pulmonary and respiratory health and may preclude full beards or other obstructions preventing an adequate facial fit.

About Us
The Hunt family of companies are a privately owned group of entities that include oil and gas exploration and production, refining, LNG, power, renewables, real estate, ranching and infrastructure. The mission of Hunt is to be a growth-oriented industry leader respected throughout the world for the quality and competency of its people, the efficiency and scope of its operations, and its rich heritage of honesty and integrity.
About the Team
For 75 years, Hunt Refining Company has built a reputation of excellence by safely producing high-quality products, including transportation fuels and asphalt products, to meet the needs of its customers. Hunt Refining Company owns and operates a refinery in Tuscaloosa, Alabama and its subsidiary, Hunt Southland Refining Company, LLC, owns and operates a refinery in Sandersville, Mississippi. Hunt Refining and Hunt Southland Refining Company, LLC, also operate transportation, terminal and storage facilities in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, and Tennessee that allow products to reach several major markets in the southeastern United States

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