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Refinery Operator Jobs in Houston, TX (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 ...

Madden Bolt Corp

Crane Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

This position requires precise operation of overhead cranes and other heavy machinery to support various phases of construction, refinery maintenance, and oil field operations. The operator ensures ...

Tradebe

Operator

La Porte, TX · On-site

Travel-based role supporting refineries and chemical plants nationwide * Get paid weekly What will ... operating tank cleaning and processing equipment (e.g., centrifuges, filter presses, decanters ...

Tradebe

Operator

La Porte, TX

Travel-based role supporting refineries and chemical plants nationwide * Get paid weekly What will ... operating tank cleaning and processing equipment (e.g., centrifuges, filter presses, decanters ...

Tradebe

Operator

La Porte, TX

Travel-based role supporting refineries and chemical plants nationwide * Get paid weekly What will ... operating tank cleaning and processing equipment (e.g., centrifuges, filter presses, decanters ...

Tradebe

Operator

La Porte, TX · On-site

Travel-based role supporting refineries and chemical plants nationwide * Get paid weekly What will ... operating tank cleaning and processing equipment (e.g., centrifuges, filter presses, decanters ...

ZymeFlow

Field Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

Job Summary The Field Operator supports safe, timely project execution while working as part of a ... refinery operations. * Excellent organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to ...

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All JobsRefinery Operator JobsRefinery Operator Jobs in Houston, TX

Refinery Operator information

See Houston, TX salary details

$10

$18

$28

How much do refinery operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for refinery operator in Houston, TX is $18.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.95 and $20.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 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 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.

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. Candidates often need relevant experience, technical skills, and sometimes a high school diploma or higher education in related fields. The job involves working in industrial environments with shift schedules and safety protocols.

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 inspections, adjust machinery, and ensure safety protocols are followed, often working in shifts and using control panels and monitoring systems. Certification and knowledge of safety procedures are essential in this role.
More about Refinery Operator jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Refinery Operator jobs in Houston, TX?

The most popular types of Refinery Operator jobs in Houston, TX are:

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For Refinery Operator jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Refinery Operator jobs in Houston, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Refinery Operator jobs in Houston, TX are:

What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Refinery Operator jobs?

Cities near Houston, TX with the most Refinery Operator job openings:

Refinery Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Refinery Operator job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,889 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Hydrovac Operator - (Travel Role)

Peak Utility Services Group

Spring, TX

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Superior Hydrovac is a full-service turn-key hydro excavation company dedicated to providing world-class hydrovac services across a diverse range of industries. With a highly trained workforce, a fleet of state-of-the-art hydrovac trucks, and the most advanced tools and technology in our field, we offer an unmatched level of expertise and capabilities. From project assessment and planning to execution and cleanup, Superior Hydrovac is specially equipped to handle every aspect of your excavation project. We are continually finding solutions to fit our customer’s needs.

Position Title: Hydrovac Operator

Our Core Values: Guided by Safety. Focused on Communities. Powered by Care.

Classification: Non-Exempt

Essential Functions:

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Hydrovac Operators are skilled laborers running machinery designed to excavate and expose underground utilities safely. This role requires precision and expertise in equipment operation, safety protocols, and efficient excavation practices.

Roles and Responsibilities:

  • Responsible for the successful completion of hydro excavation projects including utility line exposure, debris removal, slot trenching, and digging
  • Operate Hydrovac trucks and equipment in a safe and professional manner
  • Supervise activities of Hydrovac Laborers in order to ensure employee skill development
  • Set up and inspect grounding and/or bonding procedures for Hydrovac operation
  • Complete all required paperwork properly and within set time lines
  • Perform pre and post-trip inspections, as well as routine maintenance
  • Performing Required Daily Vacuum Excavation Tasks:
  • Potholing Existing Underground Utilities for HDD Work
  • Pole Holes, Anchors, and Trench Work for Company Divisions
  • Exposing Existing Underground Utilities for New Placement and Maintenance Work

Success Factors:

  • Knowledge of basic underground utilities
  • Skills in operating heavy equipment and machines proficiently and safely
  • Ability to use time and equipment efficiently to complete projects on time
  • Ability to communicate effectively in a team environment
  • Mechanical aptitude
  • Mapping and Print Reading
  • Ability to work in confined spaces
  • Mechanical ability; and knowledge of equipment and heavy vehicle operation, maintenance, and repair
  • Repetitive Lifting of Vac Piping Connections
  • Willingness and ability to learn additional skills

Experience and Education:

  • Class A CDL Air Brake and Tanker Endorsement is required
  • Minimum of 1 year of related experience or training

Additional Requirements/Licenses/Certifications:

  • Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid State of Residence Driver’s License is required within two weeks of employment.
  • Candidates must pass criminal and Motor Vehicle Record (MVR)background checks and pass a pre-employment drug screen.

Notes:

The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees and are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the employer.

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