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Refinery Operator Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA (NOW HIRING)

Overhead Crane Operator

Livingston, LA · On-site

$15 - $17.75/hr

Epic Piping has an exciting opportunity available for a Crane Operator to be an integral part of ... refining, offshore, and oil & gas industries. As an equal opportunity employer, Epic Piping is ...

Overhead Crane Operator

Livingston, LA

$15 - $17.75/hr

Epic Piping has an exciting opportunity available for a Crane Operator to be an integral part of ... refining, offshore, and oil & gas industries. As an equal opportunity employer, Epic Piping is ...

Chemical Plant Loader / Dock Operator PSC Group is now hiring full time, entry level Chemical Plant ... We are a leader in product handling and site logistics for refineries, chemical producers, and ...

Forklift Operator - Paint (Days)

Livingston, LA · On-site

$15 - $17.75/hr

Epic Piping has an exciting opportunity available for a Forklift Operator to be an integral part of ... refining, offshore, and oil & gas industries. As an equal opportunity employer, Epic Piping is ...

Forklift Operator Paint Days

Livingston, LA · On-site

$15 - $17.75/hr

Epic Piping has an exciting opportunity available for a Forklift Operator to be an integral part of ... refining, offshore, and oil & gas industries. As an equal opportunity employer, Epic Piping is ...

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Refinery Operator information

See Baton Rouge, LA salary details

$10

$19

$30

How much do refinery operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for refinery operator in Baton Rouge, LA is $19.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.96 and $21.97 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 popular job titles related to Refinery Operator jobs in Baton Rouge, LA? For Refinery Operator jobs in Baton Rouge, LA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Refinery Operator jobs in Baton Rouge, LA look for? The top searched job categories for Refinery Operator jobs in Baton Rouge, LA are:
What cities near Baton Rouge, LA are hiring for Refinery Operator jobs? Cities near Baton Rouge, LA with the most Refinery Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Refinery Operator job openings in Baton Rouge, LA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,448 per year, or $19.9 per hour.
Overhead Crane Operator

Overhead Crane Operator

EPIC PIPING, LLC

Livingston, LA • On-site

$15 - $17.75/hr

Other

Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Epic Piping rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Epic Piping has an exciting opportunity available for a Crane Operator to be an integral part of our Fabrication team. Epic takes pride in our quality of work and has a goal of building our workforce with the most talented employees. You'll have an opportunity to work on a wide range of projects on a national and global scale. We can meet you at any skill level, whether you are just starting your career or have years of experience under your belt.

 WHAT YOU'LL DO:

  • Operate crane under general supervision.
  • Manipulate or depress crane controls to regulate speed and direction of crane and hoist movement according to written, verbal, or signal instructions.
  • Lift, position, and place material or other large objects needed in bays.
  • Work within precise limits and standards of accuracy.
  • Operate crane according to signals from helper.
  • Start and stop crane controls.
  • Follow directions carefully.

WHAT YOU'LL NEED:

  • Education:  High School Diploma or GED; preferred
  • Experience: A minimum of six months' experience with overhead crane operation
  • Computer Skills:  Not applicable
  • Certification/Licenses: None specifically required

WHAT WE OFFER:

  • Industry-leading training and development programs
  • Competitive insurance and benefit options
  • Company-paid life insurance and long-term disability insurance
  • Paid vacation and holiday time
  • Traditional and Roth 401(k) plans available (50% company match up to 6% contributed by the employee)
  • Career growth opportunities through hands-on training and mentorships
  • Work alongside industry leaders and mentors
  • Training and development programs to help you build the skills and knowledge you need to excel in your role and advance your career.
  • Coaching from experienced leaders who are dedicated to helping you grow and reach your full potential.
  • Opportunities to take on new challenges and responsibilities that will stretch your abilities and expand your horizons.
  • A supportive and collaborative work environment where you are encouraged to share your ideas and contribute to our shared goals.

WHO WE ARE:

Epic Piping is one of the largest privately owned and the fastest-growing pipe fabrication firms in the world. With over three decades of experience and backgrounds extending from engineering to welding, Epic Piping provides unmatched experience servicing the chemical, power, refining, offshore, and oil & gas industries.

As an equal opportunity employer, Epic Piping is committed to the development of its employees and strives to promote an environment that fosters personal training and development.

At Epic Piping, we believe that investing in our employees is essential to our success. That's why we're looking for motivated individuals who are willing to invest in themselves and their future. As a member of our team, you will have access to:

  • Training and development programs to help you build the skills and knowledge you need to excel in your role and advance your career.
  • Coaching from experienced leaders who are dedicated to helping you grow and reach your full potential.
  • Opportunities to take on new challenges and responsibilities that will stretch your abilities and expand your horizons.
  • A supportive and collaborative work environment where you are encouraged to share your ideas and contribute to our shared goals.

 If you're someone who is committed to continuous learning and personal growth, we'd love to hear from you. Apply now to join our team and invest in your future with us!


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