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Refinery Operator Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Valaris

Dynamic Positioning Operator (DPO)

Houston, TX · On-site

Job Summary The Dynamic Positioning Operator (DPO) operates the automated and fixed station keeping system of the MODU while on location and acts as Officer in Charge of the Navigational Watch (OICNW ...

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Abilene, TX · On-site

$30/hr

Join the Badger team as a 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 ...

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Krugerville, TX · On-site

$30/hr

Join the Badger team as a 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 ...

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All JobsRefinery Operator JobsRefinery Operator Jobs in Texas

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How much do refinery operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for refinery operator in Texas is $20.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $22.84 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
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What are popular job titles related to Refinery Operator jobs in Texas? For Refinery Operator jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Refinery Operator jobs in Texas look for? The top searched job categories for Refinery Operator jobs in Texas are:
What cities in Texas are hiring for Refinery Operator jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Refinery Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Refinery Operator jobs in TX? For Refinery Operator jobs in TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Refinery Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Refinery Operator job openings in Texas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, and 23% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,057 per year, or $20.7 per hour.
Dynamic Positioning Operator (DPO)

Dynamic Positioning Operator (DPO)

Valaris

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description


Job Summary
The Dynamic Positioning Operator (DPO) operates the automated and fixed station keeping system of the MODU while on location and acts as Officer in Charge of the Navigational Watch (OICNW) while underway.
Principal Duties and Responsibilities
  • Reports directly to the Sr DPO.
  • Operates within the Company's core values and in accordance with the Code of Conduct.
  • Complies with the Valaris Management System (VMS), policies, procedures, and relevant regulatory requirements.
    • Operates the dynamic positioning (DP) system under the direct supervision of the Sr DPO and has an understanding of the principles of DP operations.
    • Monitors all control room alarms including DP system, VMS, and Fire and Gas systems.
    • Prioritizes alarm response as necessary to maintain DP system operability by calling for technical assistance or additional DP room help.
    • Operates and understands the Ballast Control System, Power Management System and Fire and Gas Detection Systems in accordance with the latest class-approved DP FMEA and Proving Trials.
    • Maintains the vessel in a stable condition at all times.
    • Assists the Sr DPO in setting up the DP System operational parameters.
    • Ensures all DP System data are recorded.
    • Advises the Sr DPO, or Master/OIM, of potential position loss, malfunction of equipment, or degraded situation.
    • Assists with preventive and corrective maintenance on DP equipment under direction of Sr DPO.
    • Understands basic drill floor operations and the potential impact on DP Operations.
    • Ensures effective communication with the drill floor, Engine Control Room (ECR), and ROV (when deployed) while connected to the seabed.
    • Maintains operational awareness and support Sr DPO in planning DP operations to support the overall operational goal.
    • Supports management of the 500 meter zone.
  • Stands safe navigational watch as required and instructed by the Master or Sr DPO.
  • Reviews and has a basic understanding of the vessel's class-approved DP Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) and Proving Trials.
  • Possesses a basic understanding of the SSOC, drift off calculations, and riser analysis.
  • Possesses basic operational knowledge of the data logger.
  • Maintains system specific knowledge of DP System and Vessel Management System.
  • Assists with preparation and execution of rig move plans in accordance with Master's Standing Orders and company procedures.
  • Maintains nautical publications and charts as per regulatory standards.
  • Assists in maintaining Voyage Planning report (transits/field moves).
  • Performs emergency duties and responsibilities as stated on the Station Bill, DP Emergency Response Plan, and vessel specific Emergency Response Manual.

Qualifications / Experience
  • Officer in Charge of Navigational Watch License STCW 95 II/1
  • Valid Flag State endorsement
  • Valid Dynamic Positioning Operator certificate
  • Valid Ballast Control Operator credential
  • One (1) year minimum experience as certified DPO on MODU's and preferably on same type of DP system; or two (2) years minimum experience as certified DPO from other type DP vessel
  • Fluent English communication skills
  • Compliant with all mandatory DPO training described in the company training matrix.

Behaviors
As part of our commitment to fostering a high-performance culture, employees are expected to align their actions and decisions with the principles outlined in our Behavioral Framework. This framework serves as the foundation for our organizational culture and guides our behaviors to drive better outcomes across the company. Employees are responsible for incorporating these behaviors into their daily actions, relationships, and decision-making to help manage expectations, strengthen relationships, and contribute to the overall success of the organization.
Our five behaviors that define our culture are:
Analyze & Plan - Being deliberate in understanding and describing the problem to solve and using information from a range of relevant sources to develop solutions that are effective and evidence-based.
Collaborate - Collaborating effectively, sharing ideas, and leveraging one another's strengths based on trust, transparency, and empathy, creating an environment where everyone's input is valued.
Communicate - Communicate clearly with all employees and stakeholders, ensuring active listening, understanding, and timely information sharing.
Learn, Grow & Adapt - Building organizational capability through our own learning and development while coaching others and supporting others to adapt, learn, and develop.
Deliver Results - Striving to deliver and exceed required results, identifying and overcoming obstacles, and taking responsibility for the outcome while respecting our values.
Disclaimer
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this job. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed. Valaris is an equal opportunity employer in all aspects of employment to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation or any other non-job related factors. Valaris is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in our job application process. If you need such an accommodation, or a religious accommodation, please contact recruiting@valaris.com.
About Us
At Valaris, our core purpose is to provide responsible solutions that deliver energy to the world. Our purpose is the driving force that defines us as a leading organization in our industry. Our diverse fleet of ultra-deepwater drillships, versatile semisubmersibles and modern shallow-water jackups is capable of meeting a wide spectrum of customers' well program requirements. Our rig fleet is among the most technologically advanced in the industry and our well-trained crews perform at the highest levels in the most challenging offshore environments. With an unwavering focus on safety and dedicated employees, we provide innovative solutions and aim to deliver excellence in everything that we do.

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