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Refinery Operator Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

W. R. Grace & Co.

Technical Service Manager

Columbia, MD · On-site

$138K - $190K/yr

This includes interpreting operating data to monitor catalyst performance, recommending operating ... Work safely in refinery environment. Required Qualifications * Ability to communicate effectively ...

W. R. Grace & Co.

Technical Service Manager

Columbia, MD

$138K - $190K/yr

This includes interpreting operating data to monitor catalyst performance, recommending operating ... Work safely in refinery environment. Required Qualifications * Ability to communicate effectively ...

W. R. Grace & Co.

Technical Service Manager

Columbia, MD

$138K - $190K/yr

This includes interpreting operating data to monitor catalyst performance, recommending operating ... Work safely in refinery environment. Required Qualifications * Ability to communicate effectively ...

LT Consulting LLC

Software Engineer

Reston, VA

... refine the computer software to produce the required product. Prepare required documentation, including both program-level and user-level documentation. Enhance software to reduce operating time or ...

LT Consulting LLC

Software Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

... refine the computer software to produce the required product. Prepare required documentation, including both program-level and user-level documentation. Enhance software to reduce operating time or ...

Morfologica

Tools Developer

Reston, VA

Also, the candidate should be able to tests debug, and refine the computer software to produce the required product. Lastly, they should be able to enhance software to reduce operating time or ...

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All JobsRefinery Operator JobsRefinery Operator Jobs in Washington

Refinery Operator information

See Washington salary details

$13

$25

$38

How much do refinery operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 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.
More about Refinery Operator jobs
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:
Refinery Operator jobs near you
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.
CNO Remote Delivery Operator

CNO Remote Delivery Operator

Redhorse Corporation

Quantico, VA

$125K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

About the Organization
Now is a great time to join Redhorse Corporation. We are a solution-driven company delivering data insights and technology solutions to customers with missions critical to U.S. national interests. We’re looking for thoughtful, skilled professionals who thrive as trusted partners building technology-agnostic solutions and want to apply their talents supporting customers with difficult and important mission sets.

About the Role
Redhorse Corporation is seeking a CNO Remote Delivery Operator to support national-level cyber operations focused on the remote deployment of Computer Network Operations (CNO) capabilities. The successful candidate will identify viable targets, prepare remote delivery environments, and execute technical actions that enable the installation of mission-approved implants on devices of interest. This role requires strong technical acumen, operational discipline, and the ability to operate within legally governed collection programs while effectively communicating with mission partners and investigative stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
  • Target Identification & Traffic Analysis:
  • Analyze broadband and Internet traffic to identify viable remote delivery opportunities.
  • Identify OS characteristics, technical indicators, and network behaviors relevant to delivery planning.
  • Assess risks related to host-based and network-based defensive tools that may obstruct delivery or expose operations.
  • Maintain situational awareness of target behavior, access challenges, and environmental changes that may impact mission execution.
  • Remote Delivery Preparation & Execution:
  • Configure remote delivery systems and servers to support controlled exploitation of identified targets.
  • Execute remote delivery operations to obtain system-level access using mission-approved capabilities.
  • Validate successful access and confirm system compatibility prior to implant installation.
  • Troubleshoot delivery issues and collaborate with engineering teams to refine configurations or delivery profiles.
  • Operational Compliance & Documentation:
  • Operate within legally governed technical collection programs, adhering strictly to authorization procedures.
  • Document all operational actions, decisions, configuration changes, and outcomes in accordance with program standards.
  • Ensure remote delivery activities comply with mission scope, timelines, and legal requirements.
  • Stakeholder Interaction & Mission Support:
  • Communicate technical constraints, access limitations, and environmental risks to investigative and mission stakeholders.
  • Coordinate with case managers, CNE tool operators, and technical leads to ensure synchronized mission execution.
  • Support deconfliction efforts across operational teams to maintain safe, compliant, and integrated mission activities.
Required Experience/Clearance
  • Active Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility.
  • 5+ years of experience supporting CNO/CNE operations, offensive cyber operations, or penetration testing.
  • Hands-on experience delivering remote exploits, conducting controlled injections, or leveraging remote delivery platforms.
  • Strong understanding of broadband architectures, Internet traffic patterns, and common network delivery points.
  • Experience analyzing network traffic to identify controlled access opportunities or exploitation paths.
  • Knowledge of defensive mechanisms such as antivirus tools, intrusion detection systems, and OS-level protections.
  • Demonstrated ability to operate within legally governed technical collection programs requiring strict compliance.
  • Strong communication skills, including the ability to convey technical issues to investigative and non-technical personnel.
Desired Experience
  • Experience with vulnerability exploitation, payload delivery, and access development. 
  • Familiarity with OS internals and network stacks (Windows, Linux, mobile OS environments). 
  • Understanding of broadband service provider technologies and delivery paths. 
  • Experience in mission-critical operational environments with time-sensitive tasking. 
  • Scripting or automation skills (Python, Bash, PowerShell) for traffic analysis or environment preparation.
The salary range provided for this position represents the anticipated base salary for successful candidates. Actual compensation will be determined based on a variety of factors, including relevant experience, education, certifications, skills, security clearance level, geographic location, market conditions, and internal equity. In addition to base salary, eligible employees may participate in Redhorse's comprehensive benefits programs and may be eligible for performance-based or other incentive compensation, where applicable.
 
Redhorse Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.
 
If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you may request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to access job openings or apply for a job on this site as a result of your disability. You can request reasonable accommodations by contacting Talent Acquisition at Talent-Acquisition@redhorsecorp.com
 
Redhorse Corporation shall, in its discretion, modify or adjust the position to meet Redhorse’s changing needs. This job description is not a contract and may be adjusted as deemed appropriate in Redhorse’s sole discretion.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.