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Refinery Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking a Refining Operator 1 for a graveyard shift in the refining department. This is a full-time position that will be working 12-hour night sift. Some overtime is required during high ...

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Join the Badger team as a Hydrovac Operator! In this role, you'll use high-pressure water and vacuum systems to dig precisely and efficiently, uncover utilities, and contribute to various ...

Join the Badger team as a Hydrovac Operator! In this role, you'll use high-pressure water and vacuum systems to dig precisely and efficiently, uncover utilities, and contribute to various ...

Operator

Detroit, MI ยท On-site

Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. * Ability to complete basic mathematical calculations. Compensation DP ...

Join the Badger team as a Hydrovac Operator! In this role, you'll use high-pressure water and vacuum systems to dig precisely and efficiently, uncover utilities, and contribute to various ...

Join the Badger team as a Hydrovac Operator! In this role, you'll use high-pressure water and vacuum systems to dig precisely and efficiently, uncover utilities, and contribute to various ...

Hydrovac Operator

Williston, ND ยท On-site

$30/hr

Join the Badger team as a Hydrovac Operator! In this role, you'll use high-pressure water and vacuum systems to dig precisely and efficiently, uncover utilities, and contribute to various ...

Hydrovac Operator

Pooler, GA ยท On-site

$30/hr

Join the Badger team as a Hydrovac Operator! In this role, you'll use high-pressure water and vacuum systems to dig precisely and efficiently, uncover utilities, and contribute to various ...

Join the Badger team as a Hydrovac Operator! In this role, you'll use high-pressure water and vacuum systems to dig precisely and efficiently, uncover utilities, and contribute to various ...

Join the Badger team as an Assistant Hydrovac Operator! In this role, you'll use high-pressure water and vacuum systems to dig precisely and efficiently, uncover utilities, and contribute to various ...

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Refinery Operator information

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$12

$22

$33

How much do refinery operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for refinery operator in the United States is $22.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $24.52 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.

How do I become a refinery operator?

To become a refinery operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with technical training or an associate degree in process technology, chemistry, or a related field. On-the-job training is common, and familiarity with safety protocols, control systems, and equipment is essential; some employers also require certifications such as OSHA safety training or process operator licenses.

What do operators do in a refinery?

Refinery operators monitor and control equipment used in the processing of crude oil into products like gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel. They interpret gauges, adjust valves, and perform routine maintenance to ensure safe and efficient plant operation, often working in shifts and following safety protocols. Certification and technical training are typically required for this role.

What are refinery operators?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Refinery Operator, and why are they important?

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.

Which oil refinery pays the most?

Refinery operators working at large, integrated oil companies such as ExxonMobil, Shell, and Chevron tend to earn higher salaries due to their scale and resources. Compensation can also vary based on experience, certifications, and location, with some high-paying roles found in regions with a high cost of living or in specialized operational positions.

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.

How hard is it to get a job at a refinery?

Securing a refinery operator position can be competitive due to the specialized skills required, such as knowledge of process control systems and safety protocols. Candidates often need relevant experience, certifications like OSHA or HAZWOPER, and sometimes a technical or vocational background. The hiring process may include assessments, interviews, and background checks, and the job typically involves shift work in a safety-sensitive environment.
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Infographic showing various Refinery Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,216 per year, or $22.2 per hour.
Operator - Reliability & Operations Support

Operator - Reliability & Operations Support

Savage Arms

Safford, AZ โ€ข On-site

$26 - $28/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Join Savage

Savage is a global provider of supply chain infrastructure and logistics solutions with more than 200 locations across the United States, Canada, Mexico and Saudi Arabia. Since we were founded in 1946, we've grown from a small family business to an international company with more than 4,000 team members. We're proud to be recognized as a Military Friendly Employer and a Top Company for Women to Work in Transportation. Savage is a place where your growth is supported and your impact matters. Join us and do things you never dreamed possible.

Location: Rotating Shifts 12 HR 5AM to 5PM - Schedule 5/ON 4/OFF, 5/ON 5/OFF

Compensation: Starting Pay $26.00 to $28.00 per hour

Equipment Used: Skid Steer, Tellahandler

Material Handled: Anhydrous Ammonia

These are just a few of the benefits you can expect from working with Savage:

  • A culture that appreciates our Team Members
  • Uniforms and laundry service
  • Paid Time Off ("PTO"), Paid Holidays
  • Profit Sharing
  • Excellent benefits including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, 401(k)
  • A culture of safety
  • A commitment to helping our Team Members do things that they never dreamed possible

What you'll be doing:

  • Safely start up, operate, monitor, and shut down an 82,000 lb/hr Superior watertube boiler.
  • Perform routine boiler operations including:
    • Boiler chemistry analysis and control (feedwater and boiler water testing)
    • Chemical adjustments and corrections
    • Continuous and intermittent blowdowns
  • Operate and monitor emissions control systems, including:
    • SCR system operation, switching and handling anhydrous ammonia bottles
  • Conduct routine inspections of boiler, auxiliaries, and associated systems to ensure safe and efficient operation, monitor operating parameters such as pressure, temperature, flow, and combustion performance, identify abnormal conditions, troubleshooting issues, and take corrective action as required
  • Communicate daily operating activities and system status with operation Leaders, maintain accurate and up-to-date operating logs, inspection records, and maintenance documentation
  • Initiate and document work orders for maintenance and repairs, follow Safe Work Permits, LOTO procedures, and site safety requirements at all times
  • Support general plant operations as needed, including assisting with inspections, housekeeping, and minor maintenance tasks, and maintaining a high standard of housekeeping in boiler and equipment areas
  • Become proficient in all aspects of the steam generation and supporting systems

Requirements to be successful in this position:

  • Prior experience operating industrial boilers, preferably watertube boiler
  • Strong working knowledge of boiler operations, including startup, shutdown, chemistry control, and blowdown practices preferred
  • Experience working in an industrial environment such as mining, power generation, petrochemical, refining, or heavy manufacturing
  • Strong understanding of Safe Work Permits and Lockout/Tagout (LOTO)
  • Mechanically inclined with the ability to troubleshoot equipment and systems
  • Demonstrated commitment to always maintaining safe work practices
  • Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to respond effectively to operational challenges
  • Willingness to develop additional technical knowledge related to emissions controls, boiler optimization, and plant systems

Here are some of the physical requirements for this role:

  • Able and willing to work outside in all weather conditions
  • Ability to work at heights, swing a 10-lb sledgehammer, walk extensively on uneven terrain, lift up to 50 lbs, work and stand on uneven surfaces for prolonged periods of time
  • Ability to work outside for extended periods of time, in all weather conditions
  • Willingness and ability to work within an MSHA-regulated mining environment
  • Candidates are required to successfully complete a criminal background check, drug and alcohol screening
  • Ability to attend and pass all required training, including but not limited to: Site-specific safety training, Anhydrous Ammonia, InPit Driving Left hand Traffic Training, Skid Steer, Tellahandler, and any additional training required for work at the job site