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Refinery Operator Jobs in Philadelphia, PA (NOW HIRING)

Refinery Operator Trainee A Refinery Operator works 12-hour rotating shifts on various units within the refinery which process crude oil as a feed stock in order to produce gasoline, diesel, jet fuel ...

Refinery Operator Trainee A Refinery Operator works 12-hour rotating shifts on various units within the refinery which process crude oil as a feed stock in order to produce gasoline, diesel, jet fuel ...

Process Engineer, Refinery

Deptford, NJ · On-site

$84K - $86K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This role focuses on monitoring process performance, establishing operating baselines, identifying ... refinery operations. * Establishing and maintaining process performance baselines to identify ...

Chemical Operator

Deptford, NJ · On-site

$18.75 - $21.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As an Operator , you will help drive our goals by: • Processing, refining and fabricating precious metals and chemical products through a range of operational activities • Following written and ...

Travelling Forklift Operator

Logan, NJ · On-site

$24 - $25.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As a Travelling Forklift Operator, you will perform hands on operations. Truck To Truck Technician ... We collect over 200 million gallons of used motor oil each year and we have the largest re-refinery ...

Travelling Forklift Operator

Logan, NJ · On-site

$24 - $25.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As a Travelling Forklift Operator, you will perform hands on operations. Truck To Truck Technician ... We collect over 200 million gallons of used motor oil each year and we have the largest re-refinery ...

Travelling Forklift Operator

Logan, NJ · On-site

$14.42 - $28.85/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As a Travelling Forklift Operator, you will perform hands on operations. Truck To Truck Technician ... We collect over 200 million gallons of used motor oil each year and we have the largest re-refinery ...

Travelling Forklift Operator

Logan, NJ · On-site

$24 - $25.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As a Travelling Forklift Operator, you will perform hands on operations. Truck To Truck Technician ... We collect over 200 million gallons of used motor oil each year and we have the largest re-refinery ...

Travelling Forklift Operator

Logan Township, NJ · On-site

$14.42 - $28.85/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As a Travelling Forklift Operator, you will perform hands on operations. Truck To Truck Technician ... We collect over 200 million gallons of used motor oil each year and we have the largest re-refinery ...

Process Operator III (New Britain, PA)

New Britain, PA

$18.50 - $23.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Operator III is the entry, qualified-operator level in AIRCO's three-level operator progression ... Experience in chemical processing, petrochemical, refining, pharmaceutical manufacturing ...

Process Operator III (New Britain, PA)

New Britain, PA · On-site

$18.50 - $23.25/hr

Operator III is the entry, qualified-operator level in AIRCO's three-level operator progression ... Experience in chemical processing, petrochemical, refining, pharmaceutical manufacturing ...

Process Operator III (New Britain, PA)

Doylestown, PA · On-site

$18.50 - $23.50/hr

Operator III is the entry, qualified-operator level in AIRCO's three-level operator progression ... Experience in chemical processing, petrochemical, refining, pharmaceutical manufacturing ...

Process Operator III (New Britain, PA)

New Britain, PA · On-site

$18.50 - $23.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Operator III is the entry, qualified-operator level in AIRCO's three-level operator progression ... Experience in chemical processing, petrochemical, refining, pharmaceutical manufacturing ...

Foreperson - Union - NTS

Trenton, NJ · On-site

$34.44 - $38.66/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Keeps informed regarding new equipment, specifications, standard practices, operating procedures, and customer and company employee relations policies and practices, including EEO and AA policies.

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Refinery Operator information

See Philadelphia, PA salary details

$12

$22

$33

How much do refinery operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for refinery operator in Philadelphia, PA is $22.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.93 and $24.76 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Refinery Operator jobs in Philadelphia, PA?

The most popular types of Refinery Operator jobs in Philadelphia, PA are:

What are popular job titles related to Refinery Operator jobs in Philadelphia, PA?

For Refinery Operator jobs in Philadelphia, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Refinery Operator jobs in Philadelphia, PA look for?

The top searched job categories for Refinery Operator jobs in Philadelphia, PA are:

Infographic showing various Refinery Operator job openings in Philadelphia, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,635 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Refinery Operator Trainee

PBF Energy, Inc.

Paulsboro, NJ • On-site

$42.88/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


PBF Energy rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Refinery Operator Trainee
A Refinery Operator works 12-hour rotating shifts on various units within the refinery which process crude oil as a feed stock in order to produce gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, refinery chemicals and other products. Our company is committed to a foundation of safe and environmentally compliant operations so Operators must follow procedures and safe work practices. New hires will be required to successfully complete a Basic Operator Training Program prior to training on an assigned operating unit. Starting pay is $42.88 per hour.
Responsibilities
An Operator may be responsible for: Maintaining operations and equipment; climbing ladders, tanks and towers up to 200 feet high; taking samples/reading of various process streams; initiating work orders and issuing work permits for work related to the assigned unit; maintaining proper and safe process operations of the operating equipment; and communicating effectively during the shift and at shift relief regarding key process unit and equipment information. Participate on the Firefighting Brigade and other Emergency Response Teams.
Basic/Required Qualifications
Must be at least 18 years of age; be legally authorized to work in the United States without restrictions; hold a High School Diploma or equivalent; and hold a current/valid Driver's License.
Must be willing to perform/comply with the following: working overtime; working holidays and weekends; work in enclosed/confined space, such as tanks, towers, reactors, silos; working around high speed rotating equipment; working around and in temperature extremes (hot/cold); lift a minimum of 50 pounds (self); work around chemicals; wear fire retardant clothing and personal protective equipment; maintain your face daily so that a respirator/face mask can seal properly; pass Fire Brigade physical and perform fire-fighting duties; work outside in harsh weather conditions; and work with petroleum products that are under high pressure and heat.
Preferred Qualifications
Military Experience
PTEC training/certification
Previous relevant Work experience
Conditions of Employment
Must complete pre-employment written tests and assessments; meet the physical criteria for the position; successfully complete a physical skills demonstration test; pass a background check and drug/alcohol screening; and be eligible to qualify for or hold a Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC Card). Relocation is not available for this position.
In order to be considered for this position, applicants must apply via the PBF website at: www.pbfenergy.com/careers. Scroll to the middle of the page and click on the link to view current openings. Under "Location" select Paulsboro Refining Company and click "Search Jobs". Select the Refinery Operator position and follow the steps to apply (If attaching a resume, please format in MicroSoft Word or .pdf format).
Selected Candidates will be notified and assigned a testing date and time via e-mail from MPS. Phase 1 consists of 3 tests. There are 3 phases in our hiring process. All contact information must be accurate and up-to-date. Phone calls will not be accepted.
Must complete pre-employment written tests and assessments; meet the physical criteria for the position; successfully complete a physical skills demonstration test; pass a background check and drug/alcohol screening; and be eligible to qualify for or hold a Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC Card). Relocation is not available for this position.
We thank all respondents for their interest in PBF Holding Company LLC ("PBF Energy"), however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Please no phone calls or emails to any employee of PBF Energy about this requisition. Placement agencies or recruiters need not respond. All resumes submitted by search firms to any employee of PBF Energy via email, the Internet or in any method without a valid written search agreement will be deemed the sole property of PBF Energy. No fee will be paid in the event the candidate is hired by PBF Energy as a result of the referral or through other means.
PBF Energy is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, reproductive health decision making, national origin, ancestry, genetic information, physical or mental disability, medical condition, marital status, age, veteran and military status, or any other status protected by applicable law. We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations as required by law.
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