ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

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 ...

Delek US

Technical Training Manager

Houston, TX

Experience with refinery operator and/or maintenance qualification programs. * Experience developing or facilitating Train-the-Trainer or instructor qualification programs. * Experience with ...

Delek US

Technical Training Manager

Houston, TX · On-site

Experience with refinery operator and/or maintenance qualification programs. * Experience developing or facilitating Train-the-Trainer or instructor qualification programs. * Experience with ...

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsRefinery Operator JobsRefinery Operator Jobs in Houston, TX

Refinery Operator information

See Houston, TX salary details

$11

$21

$32

How much do refinery operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for refinery operator in Houston, TX is $21.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.97 and $23.41 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:

What are popular job titles related to Refinery Operator jobs in Houston, TX?

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 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,135 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

Refinery Operator

Texas City, TX • On-site

Marathon Petroleum Corporation (MPC)
Oil and Gas Extraction • 10K+ employees

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 203 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

68th of 87 rated oil and gas companies

People enjoy working here

Recommended by students

Paid breaks

Learn more about Marathon Petroleum Corporation (MPC)external

$37.81 - $50.31/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

An exciting career awaits you
At MPC, we're committed to being a great place to work - one that welcomes new ideas, encourages diverse perspectives, develops our people, and fosters a collaborative team environment.
POSITION SUMMARY
Marathon Petroleum Company LP, a recognized leader in the energy industry, is accepting applications for Operator positions at its Galveston Bay Refining Division in Texas City, Texas. Marathon Petroleum Company LP is an Equal Opportunity employer.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Under the supervision of a Shift Supervisor, an Operator will perform all the duties necessary for the safe and efficient operation of process units, storage facilities, and/or marine docks. Other duties will include:
  • Attending and operating equipment such as towers, pumps, piping including pipelines, pressure vessels, control instruments, separators, furnaces, and storage facilities including tanks, etc.; performing all work in a safe and efficient manner.
  • Maintaining necessary records and completing appropriate paperwork.
  • Preparing equipment for cleaning, for mechanical repairs and alterations and for returning to service.
  • Operators are expected to be able to wear all protective equipment including self-contained breathing apparatus along with the ability to participate in emergency response activities.
  • Operators are expected to learn refining process operations and qualify on process unit operations, hydrocarbon storage facilities operations, or marine dock loading & unloading jobs.
  • The refinery operates 24 hours, 7 days a week. Operators will follow the Dupont 12-hour rotating shift schedule.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
  • Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and authorized to work in the United States.
  • A High School Diploma or GED equivalent is required.
  • A valid driver's license is required.
  • Three (3) years of experience in Process Operations in a petrochemical environment OR a two-year associate's degree in Process Technology OR at least five (5) years industrial experience working in Petrochemical/Refining environment which may include petrochemical /refining products and/or marine dock loading operations is required.
  • This job requires climbing ladders and stairs, lifting heavy objects up to 50 pounds, entering vessels, walking, stooping, bending, squatting, pulling, pushing, working in hard to reach and high places, standing for long periods of time, being exposed to all types of weather conditions, and working around machinery and pinch points.
  • Must successfully complete a physical and respirator fit testing.

PAY & BENEFITS
Starting hourly pay for this position is between $37.81 - $50.31 and is typically based on relevant prior work experience, qualifications, and union contract wage rates. Additional increases are based on demonstrated qualification/proficiency and/or years of experience after being hired. Annual increases are scheduled.
The position includes a competitive wage, comprehensive benefits package including a company matched 401k, pension, and medical benefits. The starting rate per hour may vary based on relevant experience and can increase upon qualification. Benefits information can be found at: www.mympcbenefits.com.
As an energy industry leader, our career opportunities fuel personal and professional growth.
Location:
Texas City, Texas
Additional locations:
Job Requisition ID:
00023431
Location Address:
2401 5th Ave S
Education:
Employee Group:
Full time
Employee Subgroup:
Regular
Marathon Petroleum Company LP is an Equal Opportunity Employer and gives consideration for employment to qualified applicants without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, sex, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, reproductive health decision-making, age, mental or physical disability, medical condition or AIDS/HIV status, ancestry, national origin, genetic information, military, veteran status, marital status, citizenship or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. If you would like more information about your EEO rights as an applicant, click here.
If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process at Marathon Petroleum LP, please contact our Human Resources Department at talentacquisition@marathonpetroleum.com. Please specify the reasonable accommodation you are requesting, along with the job posting number in which you may be interested. A Human Resources representative will review your request and contact you to discuss a reasonable accommodation. Marathon Petroleum offers a total rewards program which includes, but is not limited to, access to health, vision, and dental insurance, paid time off, 401k matching program, paid parental leave, and educational reimbursement. Detailed benefit information is available at https://mympcbenefits.com.The hired candidate will also be eligible for a discretionary company-sponsored annual bonus program.
Equal Opportunity Employer: Veteran / Disability
We will consider all qualified Applicants for employment, including those with arrest or conviction records, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws. In reviewing criminal history in connection with a conditional offer of employment, Marathon will consider the key responsibilities of the role.
Marathon Petroleum logo

About Marathon Petroleum

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Marathon Petroleum Corporation, headquartered in Findlay, Ohio, US, is a leading independent petroleum refining, marketing, and transportation company. Their official website can be found at marathonpetroleum.com. The company, part of the energy sector, was established in 1887, making it one of the oldest petroleum companies in the US. It operates an integrated refining, marketing and transportation system concentrated primarily in the Midwest, Northeast, East Coast, Southeast and Gulf Coast of the United States. This includes refineries, pipelines, and terminals that process and transport crude oil and refined products.

Industry

Oil and gas extraction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Findlay, OH, US

Year founded

1887

View All Marathon Petroleum Jobs

What Marathon Petroleum employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply