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Refinery Process Operator Jobs in Hawaii (NOW HIRING)

Par Pacific

Planning Supervisor

Kapolei, HI · On-site

... operating plan through influence and effective communication skills. Note: This description is ... Minimum 5 years' experience in oil refining, Planning and Economics, Operations or Process ...

hawaiianel

Asset Strategist - Oahu

Honolulu, HI

Functional focus on developing, refreshing, and refining asset replacement, spares, testing ... Responsible for work plan scoping across all operating areas for assigned asset categories.

Robert Half

eCommerce Operations Manager

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

... refining workflows, improving order flow, and increasing overall efficiency. • Develop and introduce process enhancements that lower operating costs, shorten delivery timelines, and support ...

SAIC

Systems Engineer Principal

Aiea, HI

Process Improvement & Best Practices * Develop, document, and refine standard operating procedures (SOPs), planning frameworks, and mission integration processes. * Promote continuous improvement in ...

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How much do refinery process operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for refinery process operator in Hawaii is $21.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $23.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Refinery Process Operator, you need a solid understanding of chemical processes, mechanical systems, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or associate degree in a technical field. Familiarity with distributed control systems (DCS), process monitoring software, and industry safety certifications like OSHA are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for responding to operational issues and maintaining productivity. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and compliant refinery operations in a complex industrial environment.

What are some common challenges faced by Refinery Process Operators, and how can they be managed effectively?

Refinery Process Operators often encounter challenges such as managing unexpected equipment malfunctions, responding to process upsets, and maintaining safety standards in a fast-paced environment. Effective communication with team members and prompt decision-making are crucial for troubleshooting issues and minimizing downtime. Operators typically rely on their training, process control systems, and support from maintenance or engineering teams to resolve problems quickly. Staying proactive with regular monitoring and adhering to safety protocols helps ensure smooth operations and a safe workplace.

What are Refinery Process Operators?

Refinery Process Operators are skilled professionals responsible for controlling and monitoring the machinery and equipment in oil refineries. They oversee the refining process, ensuring that crude oil is converted into usable products like gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel efficiently and safely. Their duties include adjusting controls, conducting inspections, troubleshooting issues, and maintaining safety standards. Refinery Process Operators play a critical role in preventing accidents and ensuring the smooth operation of the facility.

What is the difference between Refinery Process Operator vs Chemical Plant Operator?

AspectRefinery Process OperatorChemical Plant Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications in refinery operationsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications in chemical processing
Work EnvironmentRefineries, oil processing facilitiesChemical manufacturing plants
Industry UsageOil and gas industryChemical manufacturing industry
Job FunctionsOperate and monitor refining equipment, ensure safety and efficiencyOperate chemical processing equipment, monitor reactions and safety

Refinery Process Operators and Chemical Plant Operators share similar credentials and work environments, often requiring certifications and safety training. While both roles involve operating complex equipment, Refinery Process Operators focus on oil refining processes, whereas Chemical Plant Operators work in chemical manufacturing. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path within the processing industries.

What are popular job titles related to Refinery Process Operator jobs in Hawaii? For Refinery Process Operator jobs in Hawaii, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Refinery Process Operator jobs in Hawaii look for? The top searched job categories for Refinery Process Operator jobs in Hawaii are:
Refinery Process Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Refinery Process Operator job openings in Hawaii as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, and 45% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $45,698 per year, or $22 per hour.

Pilot Plant Operator - Technician

Sea Dragon Energy

Kailua Kona, HI • On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Pilot Plant Operator-Technician
Job Type: Full-time rotating shifts, overtime expected
Work Location: Sea Dragon Energy at the Hawaii Ocean Science & Technology Park, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Pay: $30-$40/hour
Benefits:
  • Health insurance
  • 401(k) retirement program with matching
  • Flexible PTO policy including 12 company holidays and 1 floating holiday

About Us
Sea Dragon Energy is a commercial startup and veteran-owned company developing a process to generate sustainable aviation fuel. This project combines breakthrough technologies that extract carbon dioxide and hydrogen from seawater to synthesize jet fuel in distributed units while requiring no crude oil input.
Job Responsibilities:
  • Maintain a safe working environment with chemical process equipment. Follow all safety standards and wear appropriate PPE when required to do so, including flame resistant clothing, work gloves, and masks/respirators.
  • Operate chemical process skids as directed by the Site Manager, including interacting with valves, PLC screens, pumps, compressors, electrolyzers, and reactors.
  • Monitor chemical process skid operation. Identify problems or defects during process operation. Make process adjustments and attempt to independently troubleshoot process parameter deviations.
  • Acquire chemical samples from the process skids and analyze them in the site quality laboratory.
  • Perform maintenance checks on equipment. Perform basic repairs of equipment such as fixing small leaks or changing out broken pumps. For more advanced repairs, work with equipment vendors to assist in the repair.
  • Respond to spills and cleanup with appropriate corrective action.
  • Operate a forklift as required. Previous forklift experience is not required.
  • During chemical operating campaigns work rotating 12 hour shifts. Night shifts will be required during operating campaigns.

Minimum qualification requirements:
  • High school diploma/GED or higher.
  • Three (3) years of experience in a manufacturing, pilot plant, or laboratory environment.
  • Proactive communication in alerting others to issues around the pilot plant.

Additional qualifications that would help you succeed further:
  • Associates degree or similar two-year technical degree or higher.
  • Experience with Swagelok.
  • Experience in petroleum refining, petrochemical research, or similar process equipment.
  • Experience with Lock Out Tag Out.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and understanding of how to disassemble and reassemble basic machines.
  • Strong electrical aptitude and basic knowledge of circuits.
  • Strong hydraulic aptitude and basic knowledge of fluid dynamics or plumbing.
  • Ability to complete work with little to no supervision.

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