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Refinery Operator Jobs in Maryland (NOW HIRING)

Plant Operator

Belcamp, MD · On-site

$23 - $28/hr

We collect over 200 million gallons of used motor oil each year and we have the largest re-refinery ... Responsibility for operating plant oil processing/recycling equipment. * Operate filter crusher and ...

Noble Oil Services in Belcamp MD is looking for a Plant Operator in the warehouse to unload ... We collect over 200 million gallons of used motor oil each year and we have the largest re-refinery ...

Noble Oil Services in Belcamp MD is looking for a Plant Operator in the warehouse to unload ... We collect over 200 million gallons of used motor oil each year and we have the largest re-refinery ...

We collect over 200 million gallons of used motor oil each year and we have the largest re-refinery ... Responsibility for operating plant oil processing/recycling equipment. * Operate filter crusher and ...

Plant Operator

Belcamp, MD · On-site

$14.16 - $32.88/hr

Noble Oil Services in Belcamp MD is looking for a Plant Operator in the warehouse to unload ... We collect over 200 million gallons of used motor oil each year and we have the largest re-refinery ...

We collect over 200 million gallons of used motor oil each year and we have the largest re-refinery ... Responsibility for operating plant oil processing/recycling equipment. * Operate filter crusher and ...

Forklift Operator

Baltimore, MD

$17 - $19.75/hr

We collect over 200 million gallons of used motor oil each year and we have the largest re-refinery capacity in North America allowing us to re-refine more than 150 million gallons each year. Every ...

Forklift Operator

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$14.42 - $28.85/hr

We collect over 200 million gallons of used motor oil each year and we have the largest re-refinery capacity in North America allowing us to re-refine more than 150 million gallons each year. Every ...

Forklift Operator

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$17 - $19.75/hr

We collect over 200 million gallons of used motor oil each year and we have the largest re-refinery capacity in North America allowing us to re-refine more than 150 million gallons each year. Every ...

Forklift Operator

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$17 - $19.75/hr

We collect over 200 million gallons of used motor oil each year and we have the largest re-refinery capacity in North America allowing us to re-refine more than 150 million gallons each year. Every ...

Motorcoach Operator

Rockville, MD · On-site

$103K - $124K/yr

... operating in Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia, and ... refine our driving force: Every Ride Counts! POSITION STATEMENT: Exceptional Service. Everywhere.

Chemical Operator

Baltimore, MD

$19.25 - $21.75/hr

... oil refining, the housing market and other sectors. The right individual will have a can-do ... The Chemical Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of plant processes and ...

Bindery Operator 2

Timonium, MD · On-site

$19.01 - $27.18/hr

Thorough knowledge of the set up, operating requirements, procedures, capabilities and limitations ... Skill in setting up and adjusting machines for finishing operations and to refine such adjustments ...

Bindery Operator 2

Timonium, MD · On-site

$19.01 - $27.18/hr

Thorough knowledge of the set up, operating requirements, procedures, capabilities and limitations ... Skill in setting up and adjusting machines for finishing operations and to refine such adjustments ...

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Refinery Operator information

See Maryland salary details

$11

$21

$32

How much do refinery operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for refinery operator in Maryland is $21.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.26 and $23.80 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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Refinery Operator job openings in Maryland as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,854 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Assistant Hydrovac Operator

Curtis Bay, MD


Badger Daylighting
Construction • 10K+ employees

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Paid breaks

Good training


$33.90/hr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Are you enthusiastic about safe excavation and skilled in the assistance of operating hydrovac equipment? Join the Badger team as an Assistant Hydrovac Operator! In this role, you'll use high-pressure water and vacuum systems to dig precisely and efficiently, uncover utilities, and contribute to various construction projects. If you're detail-oriented, safety-conscious, and ready to be part of essential infrastructure work, apply now to join our dedicated team.

Salary: Union wages and benefits to be discussed directly with the Branch Manager with starting rate of $33.90/hour.

What We're Looking For:
  • Must have a valid Driver's License
  • CPR/First Aid, Fall Protection and OSHA 10 certification (preferred)
  • Ability to work variable shifts with extended hours
  • Must be willing to travel up to 25%
  • Must be able to lift, push, pull 50+ pounds and have the physical stamina for manual labor in varying weather conditions
  • Prior hydrovac equipment operation or related industrial experience (preferred)
What You'll Need For Success:
  • Customer Service Focused and comfortable with customer interaction
  • Enthusiasm for being part of a safety-focused collaborative team
  • Technology adept
  • Personal Protective Equipment provided
  • Candidates must undergo a physical examination and complete pre-employment screenings such as driver's abstract review and drug
  • This position is in a region that is covered under a collective bargaining agreement; the successful applicant may be required to join the union as a condition of employment
If you feel you don't have the experience listed above, but still think you are qualified for the job, we encourage you to apply for consideration. 

What You'll Be Doing:
  • Assisting in operating hydrovac equipment and performing hydrovac duties in a variety of working environments, including confined spaces
  • Attending safety meetings
  • Performing routine inspections and minor repairs of the hydrovac equipment
  • Preparing work areas by setting up safety measures and addressing potential hazards
  • Documenting and reporting all Badger, Federal, State, and Customer paperwork accurately and efficiently


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