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Refinery Operator Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

EO/Driver I

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$14.06 - $37.38/hr

The Equipment Operator/Driver I is responsible for the safe and proper execution of Thompson Industrial jobs across all services lines. Supervises and completes single task jobs requiring one crew ...

EO/Driver I

Arlington, VA · On-site

$14.06 - $37.38/hr

The Equipment Operator/Driver I is responsible for the safe and proper execution of Thompson Industrial jobs across all services lines. Supervises and completes single task jobs requiring one crew ...

Refined Medical Staffing is seeking a travel nurse RN OR - Operating Room for a travel nursing job in Arlington, Virginia. & Requirements * Specialty: OR - Operating Room * Discipline: RN * Start ...

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.

The Junior Watch Operator will provide real-time monitoring and operational support for mission ... Assist in refining operational procedures and contributing to process improvements. • Operate ...

The Junior Watch Operator will provide real-time monitoring and operational support for mission ... Assist in refining operational procedures and contributing to process improvements. • Operate ...

CNO Tool Operator

Quantico, VA · On-site

$135K - $186K/yr

... refine collection objectives, and deliver operational updates. • Operate within legally governed ... experience operating within legally governed technical collection programs. • Strong ...

... 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 · 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.

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 · 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 · 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 · 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 ...

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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 Aug 11, 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.

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. Employers often look for relevant experience, technical aptitude, and the ability to work in a demanding environment, which can make entry challenging for some applicants.

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 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 routine inspections, adjust machinery, and ensure safety protocols are followed to maintain efficient operations in the refinery environment.

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 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.
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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,344 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

$14.06 - $37.38/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Thompson Industrial, powered by Clean Harbors, is looking for a Tech and Operator with valid Driver License to join their safety conscious team! The Equipment Operator/Driver I is responsible for the safe and proper execution of Thompson Industrial jobs across all services lines. Supervises and completes single task jobs requiring one crew and completes turnarounds with management oversight at client’s site in accordance with client and business requirements and company policies, practices, and procedures. Transitioning Military, this is a great opportunity to leverage your skills and training as you return to civilian life.  

Why work for Thompson Industrial? 

  • Health and Safety is our #1 priority and we live it 3-6-5!
  • Competitive wages, paid training 
  • Comprehensive health benefits coverage after 30 days of full-time employment
  • Group 401K with company matching component
  • Opportunities for growth and development for all the stages of your career
  • Generous paid time off, company paid training and tuition reimbursement
  • Positive and safe work environments

Key Responsibilities: 

  • Promote Thompson-Industrial’s safety, environmental and operations policies
  • Operates Forklift 
  • Completes daily checklist as required for proper operation of the unit being operated
  • Performs labor intensive activities in all weather conditions throughout the shift
  • Works in atmospheres with low clearances, confined spaces and at heights
  • Timely and accurate completion and review of paperwork documenting work functions
  • Ability to interact with customers in a professional manner/exhibit excellent communication/human relation skills
  • Additional duties as assigned

Physical demands:

  • Must be able to wear protective clothing or equipment.  This includes, but is not limited to Nomex coveralls, a back belt, slicker suits, rubber boots, a fresh air breathing mask and escape pack and a hard hat
  • Must be able to work under extreme climate conditions (excessive high heat index of 95+ degrees Fahrenheit, 98% humidity and subzero weather conditions) relative to geographic location
  • Must be able to withstand exposure to dust (chemical and environmental), fumes (chemical and fluids), exhaust and highly pressurized fluids. 
  • Must have a valid DL

What does it take to work for Thompson-Industrial? 

  • High school diploma/GED or equivalent 
  • Previous experience in operating: heavy duty forklift
  • Strong communications and interpersonal skills, dependable; Valid Driver License 

About Thompson Industrial 

Thompson Industrial, powered by Clean Harbors, is the premier industrial cleaning and environmental services company in North America supporting the upstream, downstream, and utility sectors. Thompson Industrial offers an exceptional three-pronged safety system, innovative career development platform, committed customer service, deep industry expertise, and advanced technology and automation. We are committed to safety, people, growth, service, and performance. We provide the safest, most efficient operational experience for our customers and the most comprehensive training and career development for our employees.

40-years of sustainability in action. At Clean Harbors, our mission is to create a safer, cleaner environment through the treatment, recycling, and disposal of hazardous materials. Clean Harbors is the leading provider of environmental, energy and industrial services throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico.  Everywhere industry meets environment, Clean Harbors is on-site, providing premier environmental, energy and industrial services. We are solving tough problems through innovation and proven methodology – come be part of the solution with us. 

Join our safety focused team today!  To learn more about our company, and to apply online for this exciting opportunity, visit us at https://careers.cleanharbors.com/. 

Clean Harbors is an equal opportunity employer. 

Clean Harbors is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact ect@cleanharbors.com or 1-844-922-5547. 

Clean Harbors is a Military & Veteran friendly company. 

Please be advised that Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used to support certain stages of the recruitment process but are not used as a replacement for human decision making. 

Clean Harbors is committed to complying with applicable pay transparency laws and ensuring fair and equitable compensation. The posted salary range reflects the minimum and maximum target for this role. Final compensation may vary based on factors such as location, experience, skills, and business needs. In addition to the base salary, some roles may be eligible for bonus or incentive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package. 

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