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Refinery Operator Jobs in Phoenix, AZ (NOW HIRING)

Deburr Operator The Deburr Operator plays a key role in finishing and refining manufactured parts through deburring, grinding, sanding, and polishing processes. Working under close supervision and ...

SMT Operator

Tempe, AZ

$17 - $22.50/hr

Position Summary We are seeking a SMT Operator I with strong mechanical ability, excellent attention to detail, and the ability to perform assembly and machine operation tasks requiring fine motor ...

SMT Operator

Tempe, AZ

$17 - $22.50/hr

SMT Operator 1st shift 6AM-2:30PM Possible need for another person on 2nd shift:2:30PM-11PM The SMT Operator has excellent mechanical dexterity, can perform assembly tasks that require refined fine ...

Entry Level Operator

Glendale, AZ · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Basic Function HF Sinclair Asphalt located in Glendale, AZ is seeking an Entry Level Operator. This ... Petroleum refinery, warehouse/plant environment, out-of-doors environment, and occasional driver ...

Entry Level Operator

Glendale, AZ · On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

Basic Function HF Sinclair Asphalt located in Glendale, AZ is seeking an Entry Level Operator. This ... Petroleum refinery, warehouse/plant environment, out-of-doors environment, and occasional driver ...

Entry Level Operator

Glendale, AZ

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Basic Function HF Sinclair Asphalt located in Glendale, AZ is seeking an Entry Level Operator. This ... Petroleum refinery, warehouse/plant environment, out-of-doors environment, and occasional driver ...

Entry Level Operator

Glendale, AZ

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Basic Function HF Sinclair Asphalt located in Glendale, AZ is seeking an Entry Level Operator. This ... Petroleum refinery, warehouse/plant environment, out-of-doors environment, and occasional driver ...

Develop and refine operating procedures that eliminate bottlenecks, improve product quality, and enhance overall efficiency. * Manage production schedules and quickly resolve equipment or operational ...

Join Refined Gardens, where craftsmanship, teamwork, and career growth come together. We specialize ... Operating and maintaining construction equipment (skid steers, mini excavators, etc.) * Tracking ...

Join Refined Gardens , where craftsmanship, teamwork, and career growth come together. We ... Operating and maintaining construction equipment (skid steers, mini excavators, etc.) * Tracking ...

Join Refined Gardens, where craftsmanship, teamwork, and career growth come together. We specialize ... Operating and maintaining construction equipment (skid steers, mini excavators, etc.) * Tracking ...

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Refinery Operator information

See Phoenix, AZ salary details

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How much do refinery operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for refinery operator in Phoenix, AZ is $21.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $23.65 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 Phoenix, AZ?

The most popular types of Refinery Operator jobs in Phoenix, AZ are:

What are popular job titles related to Refinery Operator jobs in Phoenix, AZ?

For Refinery Operator jobs in Phoenix, AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Refinery Operator jobs in Phoenix, AZ look for?

The top searched job categories for Refinery Operator jobs in Phoenix, AZ are:

Infographic showing various Refinery Operator job openings in Phoenix, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,838 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Deburr Operator

Phoenix, AZ

Aerotek
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 1 - 5K employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Deburr OperatorJob Description

The Deburr Operator plays a key role in finishing and refining manufactured parts through deburring, grinding, sanding, and polishing processes. Working under close supervision and following clearly defined procedures, this entry-level position focuses on completing deburr operations per work order instructions, maintaining accurate documentation, and supporting production across various areas of the shop. The role is ideal for individuals with strong attention to detail, good hand-eye coordination, and the ability to work safely and efficiently with hand tools and measuring equipment.

Responsibilities
  • Perform deburr operations in accordance with work order callouts and established work instructions.
  • Use hand tools and finishing equipment such as grinders, sanders, and polishing tools to remove burrs and refine parts.
  • Complete all required paperwork accurately and promptly, including documentation associated with work instructions and job functions.
  • Work in all designated areas of the shop as assigned by supervision on an as-needed basis to support production needs.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area at all times, following 5S principles.
  • Operate equipment such as bench grinders, bead blasters, disc sanders, and belt sanders as trained and directed.
  • Handle small, delicate parts carefully while using standard measuring equipment to ensure quality and accuracy.
  • Follow written, oral, and diagram-based instructions and apply common sense understanding to carry out tasks effectively.
  • Work under direct supervision with on-the-job training for a minimum of six months to build skills and proficiency.
  • Adhere to all safety requirements, including the use of appropriate personal protective equipment and steel-toed or composite-toed shoes.
  • Drive and operate a forklift when required, following safety procedures and training.
  • Meet physical demands of the role, including frequent lifting and moving of parts up to 50 pounds.
Essential Skills
  • Ability to perform deburring, grinding, sanding, and polishing operations using hand tools and shop equipment.
  • High school diploma or GED.
  • Acceptable aptitudes and communication skills to understand and follow instructions.
  • Near and far vision of 20/30 in both eyes, corrected or uncorrected, with strong close vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
  • Manual dexterity to handle small, delicate parts while using standard measuring equipment.
  • Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form.
  • Strong communication and cooperation skills to work effectively with supervisors and team members.
  • Entry-level experience, with little or no prior relevant work experience required.
  • Ability to acquire basic skills to perform routine entry-level operator tasks.
  • Comfort working with close supervision and within clearly defined procedures.
  • Capability to frequently lift and move items up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to drive and operate a forklift, following safety guidelines.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
  • Familiarity with or willingness to learn the use of height gages for precise measurements.
  • Ability to use digital calipers to measure parts accurately.
  • Experience with or training in using pi tapes for circumference measurements.
  • Knowledge of micrometers and their use in dimensional inspection.
  • Training or experience in polishing and deburr techniques to achieve required finishes.
  • Ability to operate a bench grinder safely and effectively.
  • Experience using a bead blaster for surface finishing.
  • Skill in operating disc sanders and belt sanders for material removal and finishing.
  • Comfort working in a moderate-noise manufacturing environment.
  • Commitment to following 5S and general workplace organization practices.
Why Work Here?

This opportunity offers a direct-hire position with structured on-the-job training and close supervision to support skill development and growth. The role provides a clear path to build foundational manufacturing and operator skills in a supportive environment with defined procedures and expectations. Employees benefit from a stable weekday schedule, consistent hours, and the chance to work with a variety of tools and equipment while contributing to high-quality production outcomes.

Work Environment

This role is based in a manufacturing shop environment with a moderate noise level and involves frequent hands-on work with metal and other materials. The position follows a first-shift schedule, typically 5:30 AM to 2:00 PM, Monday through Friday. Work is performed across various areas of the shop as needed, using equipment such as bench grinders, bead blasters, disc sanders, belt sanders, height gages, digital calipers, pi tapes, and micrometers. The physical demands include frequent lifting and moving of parts up to 50 pounds, standing for extended periods, and performing tasks that require good vision and manual dexterity. Steel-toed or composite-toed shoes are required, and forklift operation may be part of the role, with appropriate training and safety procedures in place.

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Phoenix, AZ.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $37440.00 - $41600.00/yr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

MedicalDentalVisionLife and AD&D InsuranceDisability insurance

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Phoenix,AZ.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 20, 2026.

About Aerotek

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

Company Description

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.


Aerotek logo

About Aerotek

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies’ construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our "people are everything" spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services and travel arrangement services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hanover, MD, US