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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 ...

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 ...

Hunt Consolidated

Operator Trainee

Tuscaloosa, AL · On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Learns and/or knows Hunt Refining Company's safety policies and their use in all work activities ... Learns and/or knows hazards associated with various operating equipment in the area. * Learns and ...

Hunt

Operator Trainee

Tuscaloosa, AL

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Learns and/or knows Hunt Refining Company's safety policies and their use in all work activities ... Learns and/or knows hazards associated with various operating equipment in the area. Learns and/or ...

Hunt

Operator Trainee

Tuscaloosa, AL · On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Provides feedback to the Console Operator when lighting the heaters in the field. • Works to ... Hunt Refining Company

Hunt Consolidated

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 ...

New

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.

Turner Industries

Finish Dozer Operator

Decatur, AL · On-site

Our single-solution approach in the petrochemical, refining, energy, pulp and paper, and related ... Finish dozer operator experience, required * Heavy equipment operation experience, required ...

Action

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 ...

Action

Equipment Operator

Hanceville, AL · On-site

$28 - $33/hr

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

Action Enterprise

Equipment Operator

Hanceville, AL · On-site

$28 - $33/hr

Equipment Operator Department: Direct Labor Location: Hanceville, 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 ...

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All JobsRefinery Operator JobsRefinery Operator Jobs in Alabama

Refinery Operator information

See Alabama salary details

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$30

How much do refinery operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 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 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.

How do I become a refinery operator?

To become a refinery operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with technical training or an associate degree in process technology, chemistry, or a related field. On-the-job training is common, and familiarity with safety protocols, control systems, and equipment is essential; some employers also require certifications such as OSHA safety training or process operator licenses.

What do operators do in a refinery?

Refinery operators monitor and control equipment used in the processing of crude oil into products like gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel. They interpret gauges, adjust valves, and perform routine maintenance to ensure safe and efficient plant operation, often working in shifts and following safety protocols. Certification and technical training are typically required for this role.

What are refinery operators?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Refinery Operator, and why are they important?

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.

Which oil refinery pays the most?

Refinery operators working at large, integrated oil companies such as ExxonMobil, Shell, and Chevron tend to earn higher salaries due to their scale and resources. Compensation can also vary based on experience, certifications, and location, with some high-paying roles found in regions with a high cost of living or in specialized operational positions.

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.

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.

How hard is it to get a job at a refinery?

Securing a refinery operator position can be competitive due to the specialized skills required, such as knowledge of process control systems and safety protocols. Candidates often need relevant experience, certifications like OSHA or HAZWOPER, and sometimes a technical or vocational background. The hiring process may include assessments, interviews, and background checks, and the job typically involves shift work in a safety-sensitive environment.
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:
What are popular job titles related to Refinery Operator jobs in Alabama? 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,889 per year, or $20.1 per hour.
Process Operator Trainee

Process Operator Trainee

Hunt

Atmore, AL • On-site

$12.75 - $16/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days 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. 

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.


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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