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Refinery Operator Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Motorcoach Operator

Rockville, MD ยท 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.

HawkEye 360 is currently seeking an Associate System Operator to join the System Operations team ... refining on-orbit activities, and maintaining customer requests. We own and drive internal and ...

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

Shuttle Operator

Rockville, MD ยท On-site

$20 - $22/hr

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

CNO Tool Operator

Quantico, VA ยท On-site

$125K - $150K/yr

Engage directly with mission stakeholders to define intelligence requirements, refine collection ... Experience operating command-and-control platforms to task deployed tools. * Proficiency with ...

CNO Tool Operator

Quantico, VA ยท On-site

$125K - $150K/yr

Engage directly with mission stakeholders to define intelligence requirements, refine collection ... Experience operating command-and-control platforms to task deployed tools. * Proficiency with ...

CNO Tool Operator

Quantico, VA ยท On-site

$125K - $150K/yr

Engage directly with mission stakeholders to define intelligence requirements, refine collection ... Experience operating command-and-control platforms to task deployed tools. * Proficiency with ...

CNO Tool Operator

Quantico, VA ยท On-site

$135K - $186K/yr

Engage directly with mission stakeholders to define intelligence requirements, refine collection ... Experience operating command-and-control platforms to task deployed tools. * Proficiency with ...

Watch Operator - Junior

Chantilly, VA ยท On-site

$101K - $124K/yr

Watch Operator - Junior Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security Solutions team ... teams. * Assist in refining operational procedures and contributing to process improvements.

Watch Operator - Junior

Chantilly, VA ยท On-site

$101K - $124K/yr

Watch Operator - Junior Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security Solutions team ... teams. * Assist in refining operational procedures and contributing to process improvements.

Watch Operator - Junior Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security Solutions team ... teams. * Assist in refining operational procedures and contributing to process improvements.

Watch Operator - Junior Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security Solutions team ... teams. * Assist in refining operational procedures and contributing to process improvements.

Watch Operator - Junior

Springfield, VA ยท On-site

$101K - $124K/yr

Watch Operator - Junior Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security Solutions team ... teams. * Assist in refining operational procedures and contributing to process improvements.

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Showing results 1-20

Refinery Operator information

See Washington salary details

$13

$25

$38

How much do refinery operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for refinery operator in Washington is $25.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.14 and $27.79 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Refinery Operator jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Refinery Operator jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Refinery Operator jobs in Washington? For Refinery Operator jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Refinery Operator jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Refinery Operator jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Refinery Operator jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Refinery Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Refinery Operator jobs in WA? For Refinery Operator jobs in WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Refinery Operator job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,344 per year, or $25.2 per hour.
Refinery Process Engineer

Refinery Process Engineer

ProSidian Consulting

Washington, DC โ€ข On-site, Remote

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Company Description

ProSidian is a Management and Operations Consulting Services firm that delivers value to clients through tailored solutions grounded in industry-leading practices. ProSidian provides enterprise services/solutions for Risk Management, Compliance, Business Process, IT Effectiveness, Engineering, Environmental, Sustainability, and Human Capital. We help forward-thinking clients solve problems and improve operations.ย  Launched by Management Consultants, our multidisciplinary teams bring together the talents of global professionals to complete a wide range of engagements for public and private, defense and civilian government, and non-profit organizations.ย  Our solution-centric services are deployed across the enterprise, target drivers of economic profit (growth, margin, and efficiency), and are aligned at the intersections of assets, processes, policies, and people delivering value. Learn More About ProSidian Consulting at www.ProSidian.com.

Job Description

ProSidian Seeks a Refinery Process Engineer | Technical Due Diligence & Engineering Validation For Downstream Oil & Gas / Midstream / Pipelines [DOE0079079] for Program Support on a Exempt 1099 Contract: No Overtime Pay Basis Remote (within USA - W/ On-Site Meetings Expected) in The CONUS - Located In Washington, DC / Nationwide (Remote Project Support Across the United States) Area Clearance Designation(s): STD Background Chk Contract Contingent, generally located across the CONUS - Located In Washington, DC / Nationwide (Remote Project Support Across the United States) Across The District of Columbia / Nationwide (Remote Project Support Across the United States) - Independent Engineering Advisory Services are typically performed remotely and at project sites nationwide. Region supporting a a department within the US Department of Energy [The Loan Programs Office (LPO)] that provides attractive debt financing for high-impact, large-scale energy infrastructure projects in the United States.

The Refinery Process Engineer | Technical Due Diligence & Engineering Validation For Downstream Oil & Gas / Midstream / Pipelines [DOE0079079] is aligned with GSA Labor Category: Senior Consultant.

We seek Refinery Process Engineer | Technical Due Diligence & Engineering Validation For Downstream Oil & Gas / Midstream / Pipelines [DOE0079079] candidates with relevant Energy Industry (Oil, And Gas/Power, And Utilities) Sector Experience (functional and technical area expertise also ideal) to support professional services engagement for Energy Industry (Oil, And Gas/Power, And Utilities) Sector Clients such as DOE. 0

JOB OVERVIEW

Provide services and support as a Refinery Process Engineer [Independent Engineering (IE) Advisory Services] aligned with the Technical Due Diligence & Engineering Validation For Downstream Oil & Gas / Midstream / Pipelines Functional Area / Swim Lane / Category Discipline in the Energy Industry (Oil, And Gas/Power, And Utilities) Industry Sector focussing on RM | Risk Management Solutions for clients such as U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) | DOE Energy Dominance Financing (EDF) Program Generally Located In CONUS - Located In Washington, DC / Nationwide (Remote Project Support Across the United States) and across the District of Columbia / Nationwide (Remote Project Support Across the United States) - Independent Engineering Advisory Services are typically performed remotely and at project sites nationwide. Region (Of Country/World) Remote (within USA - W/ On-Site Meetings Expected).

The Refinery Process Engineer Downstream refining configuration, throughput, yield, and unit reliability. Serves as a Refinery Process Engineer within the Technical Due Diligence & Engineering Validation For Downstream Oil & Gas / Midstream / Pipelines swim lane, delivering bankable, technically defensible Independent Engineering advisory services by converting discipline-specific engineering, construction, compliance, operating, commercial, and risk findings into lender-ready due diligence, monitoring, certification, and decision-support outputs.

Serve as a Refinery Process Engineer - Technical Due Diligence & Engineering Validation For Downstream Oil & Gas / Midstream / Pipelines Specialist (Labor Category: Senior Consultant II) to provide Technical Due Diligence & Engineering Validation For Downstream Oil & Gas / Midstream / Pipelines Technical as part of an as part of an Independent Engineering (IE) Advisory Services | Energy Dominance Financing (EDF) Advisory / Technical Due Diligence / Credit Evaluation / Lifecycle Monitoring Team that provides Engineering Services.ย  This includes activities that address and Refinery process evaluation: Refinery process engineering services support Energy Dominance Financing (EDF) Independent Engineering (IE) Advisory requirements through the evaluation of refinery process configurations, throughput capacity, product yields, unit performance, process reliability, and operating assumptions. These assessments support technical due diligence, credit and financing evaluations, construction and operational monitoring, and long-term debt-service viability analyses by validating process design, production capabilities, operational efficiency, technical feasibility, and overall refinery performance, while providing independent engineering assurance and reporting throughout the project lifecycle.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES - Refinery Process Engineer | Technical Due Diligence & Engineering Validation For Downstream Oil & Gas / Midstream / Pipelines [DOE0079079]

Provides Independent Engineering advisory support for Energy Dominance Financing (EDF) Program technical due diligence, credit evaluation, lifecycle monitoring, and assurance activities, with emphasis on refining configuration, throughput, yield, unit performance, and process reliability. Reviews project documentation, evaluates technical and commercial interfaces, identifies risks and mitigations, validates assumptions, supports conditions precedent and disbursement readiness reviews where applicable, and prepares defensible work products including process models, heat and material balances, yield data, unit KPIs, and process feasibility assessments. Coordinates with engineering, finance, legal, construction, operations, environmental, HSE, and project controls stakeholders to support timely lender and DOE decision-making.

The role(s) are located in the District of Columbia / Nationwide (Remote Project Support Across the United States) - Independent Engineering Advisory Services are typically performed remotely and at project sites nationwide. Region, at or near CONUS - Located In Washington, DC / Nationwide (Remote Project Support Across the United States).ย  Initially identified Work Site Address (Remote (within USA - W/ On-Site Meetings Expected):ย  1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20585

Qualifications

Desired Qualifications For Refinery Process Engineer | Technical Due Diligence & Engineering Validation For Downstream Oil & Gas / Midstream / Pipelines [DOE0079079] Candidates:

10+ years of relevant engineering, construction, operations, compliance, risk, finance, or energy infrastructure advisory experience; demonstrated work on oil and gas, power, utilities, or large-scale infrastructure projects for owners, lenders, independent engineers, or federal clients.

Education / Experience Requirements / Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in engineering, geoscience, petroleum engineering, mechanical, electrical, chemical, civil, environmental, or related technical field. PE, PMP, CSP, API, NACE/AMPP, PMI, or discipline-specific credentials preferred where applicable.

10+ years of relevant engineering, construction, operations, compliance, risk, finance, or energy infrastructure advisory experience; demonstrated work on oil and gas, power, utilities, or large-scale infrastructure projects for owners, lenders, independent engineers, or federal clients.

Skills Required

Primarily focused on Engineering Services initiatives and aligned with Program Support activities Technical Due Diligence & Engineering Validation For Downstream Oil & Gas / Midstream / Pipelines Functional Area Activities.ย 

Independent engineering review; U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Loan Programs Office (LPO) - Style documentation discipline; technical due diligence; risk assessment; refining configuration, throughput, yield, unit performance, and process reliability; data room review; information request tracking; report writing; Excel-based analysis; stakeholder coordination; and clear presentation of findings for credit, construction, monitoring, and certification decisions.

Competencies Required

  • Technical judgment; independence and objectivity; analytical rigor; attention to detail; defensible documentation; client service orientation; cross-functional collaboration; issue escalation; quality mindset; schedule discipline; and ability to translate technical evidence into actionable risk, compliance, and financing implications.

Ancillary Details Of The Roles

  • Ancillary role detail: may participate in data room reviews, borrower/contractor interviews, site observations, monthly monitoring meetings, risk register updates, CP evidence reviews, draw package checks, issue closure tracking, and preparation of Independent Engineer reports for DOE, LPO, credit, and program governance stakeholders.
  • The DOE Energy Dominance Financing (EDF) Program represents DOE/LPO-supported financing and lifecycle oversight activities for large-scale U.S. energy infrastructure projects, requiring independent engineering, technical due diligence, credit evaluation, construction monitoring, operational performance assessment, and risk management services to support financing decisions and protect government lending interests throughout the project lifecycle.ย  DOE financing activities that support U.S. energy infrastructure, energy security, domestic production, and strategic energy investments. The financing authority itself would typically be administered through the DOE Loan Programs Office (LPO).
  • The Loan Programs Office (LPO) is the financing arm of the U.S. Department of Energy, responsible for providing Direct loans, loan guarantees, credit assistance, and project finance support for large-scale energy and infrastructure projects in the United States.ย  The LPO evaluates projects from Technical, Engineering, Financial, Commercial, Environmental, Regulatory, Construction, and Operational perspectives before financing decisions are made.ย 
  • Independent Engineering (IE) Advisory Services are needed for complex energy projects. DOE/LPO frequently requires independent technical reviews similar to those used by commercial lenders, export credit agencies, multilateral development banks, and institutional project finance investors.ย  An EDF-style Independent Engineering engagement could include:
  • - Upstream Oil & Gas (Exploration and production | Reservoir development | Drilling programs)
  • - Midstream (Pipelines | Compression facilities | LNG infrastructure | Storage terminals)
  • - Downstream (Refineries | Petrochemical facilities | Processing plants)
  • - Power & Utilities (Generation facilities | Transmission infrastructure | Grid modernization | Energy storage)

Other Details

Role supports NAICS 541330 Engineering Services for Energy Dominance Financing (EDF) Program/Loan Programs Office (LPO) energy infrastructure financing, with work performed for high-impact oil and gas, power, utilities, and infrastructure projects. Outputs must be independent, traceable to source evidence, suitable for lender review, and aligned with technical due diligence, construction monitoring, EPC oversight, completion certification, operations monitoring, and long-term debt-service viability assessment needs.

#TechnicalCrossCuttingJobs #Energy Industry (Oil, And Gas/Power, And Utilities) #Jugaad #Copitas #AskWhy #Zakat #PokaYoke #AskidaEmek

Additional Information

As a condition of employment, all employees must meet the requirements of their roles: establish, manage, pursue, and achieve annual goals and objectives with Documented Goals for each of the firm's Eight ProSidian Global Competencies [1 - Personal Effectiveness | 2 - Continuous Learning | 3 - Leadership | 4 - Client Service | 5 - Business Management | 6 - Business Development | 7 - Technical Expertise | 8 - Innovation & Knowledge Sharing (Thought Leadership)]; and support all business development and other efforts on behalf of ProSidian.

Eight ProSidian Global Competencies

  1. Personal Effectiveness - The ability to manage tasks, time, and relationships efficiently, achieving consistent, impactful results.
  2. Continuous Learning - Ongoing pursuit of knowledge, skills, and adaptability to remain relevant, competent, and professionally competitive.
  3. Leadership - Inspiring, guiding, and motivating others toward shared goals, fostering accountability, collaboration, and strategic organizational success.
  4. Client Service - Delivering responsive, high-quality solutions that address client needs, build trust, and strengthen long-term partnerships.
  5. Business Management - Coordinating people, processes, and resources to achieve strategic objectives, operational efficiency, and sustainable organizational performance.
  6. Business Development - Identifying, pursuing, and securing growth opportunities through strategic relationships, market insight, and innovative solutions.
  7. Technical Expertise - Applying specialized knowledge, analytical skills, and practical experience to solve complex problems with accuracy.
  8. Innovation & Knowledge Sharing (Thought Leadership) - Generating creative solutions, sharing insights, and influencing industry direction through expertise, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

------------ --------------- ------------

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

  • Business Tools - understanding and proficiency with business tools and technology, including Microsoft Office.ย  The ideal candidate is advance...

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About ProSidian Consulting

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

ProSidian is a management and operations consulting firm with a reputation for its strong national practice spanning six solution areas including Risk Management, Energy & Sustainability, Compliance, Business Process, IT Effectiveness, and Talent Management. We help clients improve their operations. Linking strategy to execution, ProSidian assists client leaders in maximizing company return on investment capital through design and execution of operations core to delivering value to customers. Visit www.ProSidian.com or follow the company on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ProSidianfor more information.

Industry

Business schools and computer and management training

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Charlotte, NC, US

Year founded

2004

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