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Refinery Operator Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Heavy Equipment Operator

Tacoma, WA

$55 - $58/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Minimum of four (4) years' heavy equipment operator experience, preferably in refinery environment. * Strong knowledge of industrial safety standards and protocols. * Must be able to pass equipment ...

Thorough knowledge of the set up, operating requirements, procedures, capabilities and limitations ... Skill in setting up and adjusting machines for finishing operations and to refine such adjustments ...

Machine Operator - Folder Gluer

Kent, WA · On-site

$23.25 - $36.25/hr

Thorough knowledge of the set up, operating requirements, procedures, capabilities and limitations ... Skill in setting up and adjusting machines for finishing operations and to refine such adjustments ...

Machine Operator - Folder Gluer

Kent, WA · On-site

$23.25 - $36.25/hr

Thorough knowledge of the set up, operating requirements, procedures, capabilities and limitations ... Skill in setting up and adjusting machines for finishing operations and to refine such adjustments ...

Sales Development Lead

Seattle, WA · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

Comfort operating in an early, evolving GTM environment and refining existing processes * Strong written and verbal communication skills * Thoughtful, professional approach to outbound (not spray-and ...

Sales Development Lead

Seattle, WA

$60K - $80K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

Comfort operating in an early, evolving GTM environment and refining existing processes * Strong written and verbal communication skills * Thoughtful, professional approach to outbound (not spray-and ...

Sales Development Lead

Seattle, WA · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

Comfort operating in an early, evolving GTM environment and refining existing processes * Strong written and verbal communication skills * Thoughtful, professional approach to outbound (not spray-and ...

Shift Supervisor

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$16 - $20.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Must possess a valid driver's license to operate company vehicles within the refinery and on public roads * Prior board Operator experience is preferred * Strong work history * Effective leadership ...

AVIATION BOATSWAINS MATE, AIRCRAFT FUELS

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Fueling aircraft and operating and maintaining aviation fueling and lubricating oil systems * Enforcing safety and handling precautions * Refining fuel for quality * Supervising fuel farms and ...

AVIATION BOATSWAINS MATE, AIRCRAFT FUELS

Seattle, WA · On-site

$18.25 - $22.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Fueling aircraft and operating and maintaining aviation fueling and lubricating oil systems * Enforcing safety and handling precautions * Refining fuel for quality * Supervising fuel farms and ...

AVIATION BOATSWAINS MATE, AIRCRAFT FUELS

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$17.25 - $21/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Fueling aircraft and operating and maintaining aviation fueling and lubricating oil systems * Enforcing safety and handling precautions * Refining fuel for quality * Supervising fuel farms and ...

Fund Advisor

Seattle, WA · Remote

$75K - $200K/yr

Help managers refine LP decks and fundraising narratives * Monitor fund performance and identify operational improvements * Contribute to best-practice playbooks for early-stage fund operators ...

Showing results 21-40

Refinery Operator information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$13

$25

$38

How much do refinery operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for refinery operator in Seattle, WA is $25.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.24 and $27.88 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.

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. Employers often look for relevant experience, technical aptitude, and the ability to work in a demanding environment, which can make entry challenging for some applicants.

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 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 routine inspections, adjust machinery, and ensure safety protocols are followed to maintain efficient operations in the refinery environment.

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 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.

What are popular job titles related to Refinery Operator jobs in Seattle, WA?

For Refinery Operator jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Refinery Operator jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Refinery Operator jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Refinery Operator jobs?

Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Refinery Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Refinery Operator job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,594 per year, or $25.3 per hour.

$55 - $58/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 17 days ago


Matrix Service Company rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job Summary:

Work under the direction from General Foreman or Superintendent on daily tasks for crew. Operates a variety of heavy equipment including backhoes, excavators, dozers, loaders, graders and trenchers.

Job Functions:

  • Actively supports the Company’s commitment to safety and its “Core Values.”
  • Always represents the Company with high moral standards while adhering to the Company’s “Code of Business Conduct and Ethics.”
  • Perform duties within a precise limit or standard of accuracy (Quality Control).
  • Performs loading and unloading of equipment and supplies.
  • Precision positioning of equipment, lifting heavy machinery and components, as well as beams and lumber.
  • Will operated joystick controls, pedals, levers and buttons to lift, move, and position loads using hoisting attachments, such as hooks, slings, electromagnets, and buckets.
  • Must be careful and attentive at all times so they can follow directions closely as they will communicate with team members both verbally and by signal instruction.
  • Operate equipment to dig trenches and holes of specified length, depth, and width and grade.
  • Perform daily inspection on machinery and equipment to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable operation in compliance with company standards.
  • Responsible for operating forklifts, extenda booms, and bundle trucks to support construction and maintenance activities while ensuring compliance with safety standards.
  • Must work well with supervision.
  • May be required to train and supervise apprentices.
  • Perform other responsibilities as required or assigned.

Qualifications:

  • Minimum of four (4) years’ heavy equipment operator experience, preferably in refinery environment.
  • Strong knowledge of industrial safety standards and protocols.
  • Must be able to pass equipment test and visual observation of operating equipment.
  • Able to run several types of equipment (forklifts, manlifts, etc.)
  • Able to communicate clearly with team members, supervisors, and other departments about issues and solutions.
  • Proficiency in mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems is essential, along with the ability to read and interpret technical schematics and manuals.
  • Complete the Company’s Safety training, Process Safety Management training and Client/Site specific training.
  • MUST obtain and maintain active status within the appropriate drug testing program.
  • MUST pass background check.
  • MUST have TWIC card.
  • MUST have a 20-hour high hazard facility training card.
  • MUST have Verification of 8,000 craft related hours OR Graduated journeyperson status preferred.

Physical Requirements:

  • Employee will be standing, walking, bending, squatting and lifting.
  • Must be able to hear, speak, understand and communicate effectively.
  • May be required to lift, carry and move up to 50lbs.
  • Will occasionally work at heights, climb ladders and stairways and work from platforms while utilizing proper fall protection and safety protocols.
  • Must be capable of working outside in the elements including but not limited to the heat, cold, rain, snow and wind; and must be able to work for long periods of time, up to 12 hours a day.
  • Will be required to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) including but not limited to hard hat, safety glasses/goggles, ear plugs/muffs, masks/respirators, safety vests, gloves and steel-toe boots.

Washington law requires pay information in job postings. The typical hiring range for this position in Washington is shown below. The pay rate will depend on the successful candidate’s qualifications and prior experience, specific skill set, geographic location, internal equity, and other factors influencing pay. As such, the actual salary may fall closer to one or the other end of this range, and in certain circumstances, may fall outside the listed hiring range.

Hiring range: $55.00 to $58.00 per hour

Full range for this position, available over time: $55.00 to $58.00 per hour

In addition, full-time employees are offered a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans covering eligible employees and dependents, disability benefits, life and AD&D insurance, an employee assistance program (EAP), a 401(k) plan with company match, an employee stock purchase plan (ESPP), a robust wellness program and adoption assistance.

At Matrix, we are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace. We encourage all whose experience aligns with the listed qualifications to apply and explore joining our organization.

EEO/M/F/Disability/Vets Employer

We are an Equal Opportunity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, genetic information, marital status, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected characteristic or category.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.


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