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Refinery Process Operator Jobs in Hawaii (NOW HIRING)

Operator Trainee at the Kapolei Refinery * Launch a rewarding operations career with a growing ... Monitor process flows, temperatures, levels, and pressures in an outdoor operating environment ...

New

... 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 ...

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

Industrial Maintenance Specialist

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$20.50 - $28.25/hr

... refine techniques and approaches. The position may act as a project lead while still functioning as ... support process optimization for efficient workflow. * Create and maintain standard operating ...

Develop, own, and refine financial forecasts, budgets, and Estimates at Complete (EAC) for the ... Prepare and analyze quarterly EACs, Annual Operating Plans (AOP), and Long Range Plans (LRP) for ...

Develop, own, and refine financial forecasts, budgets, and Estimates at Complete (EAC) for the ... Prepare and analyze quarterly EACs, Annual Operating Plans (AOP), and Long Range Plans (LRP) for ...

... ) Pay and Allowances. * Portfolio & Spend Plan Management: Author, refine, and execute complex ... Proven experience operating at the Theater Army level (e.g., USARPAC, USAREUR, USARCENT) as an ...

... operators across target geographies. * Identify, evaluate, and prioritize emerging and non ... processes for channel onboarding, performance tracking, and account management. * Build and refine ...

... operators across target geographies. * Identify, evaluate, and prioritize emerging and non ... processes for channel onboarding, performance tracking, and account management. * Build and refine ...

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Refinery Process Operator information

See Hawaii salary details

$14

$21

$32

How much do refinery process operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 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 is a refinery process operator?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a refinery process operator?

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 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.

How much do refinery process operators make in the US?

Refinery process operators in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $80,000, with experienced workers and those in higher-cost-of-living areas earning over $100,000. Salaries can vary based on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the refinery environment.

What does a refinery process operator do in a refinery?

A refinery process operator monitors and controls the equipment and processes involved in refining crude oil into products like gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel. They adjust valves, interpret gauges, and ensure safety protocols are followed to maintain efficient and safe operations, often working in shifts and requiring technical training or certifications.

Where do refinery process operators make the most money?

Refinery process operators tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a high concentration of refineries and energy industries, such as areas with large petrochemical complexes or oil production facilities. Factors like experience, certifications, and working in remote or hazardous environments can also influence compensation levels.

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:

Infographic showing various Refinery Process Operator job openings in Hawaii as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,698 per year, or $22 per hour.

Operator Trainee

Kapolei, HI • On-site

Par Pacific
Oil and Gas Extraction • 501 - 1,000 employees

Full-time, Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Par Pacific rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Operator Trainee
Posting Start Date: 9/10/26
Job Location (Short): O'ahu, Kapolei, Hawaii
The Opportunity
  • Operator Trainee at the Kapolei Refinery
  • Launch a rewarding operations career with a growing downstream energy company committed to safety, teamwork, and employee development.
  • Join a collaborative, high-performing team where clear communication, strong relationships, and working together are essential to our success.
  • Receive hands-on training to safely operate processing, treating, and distribution units using manual equipment controls.
  • Reporting to the Operations Assistant Superintendent, you will build the technical skills and operational knowledge needed to support safe, reliable refinery operations.

Key activities include:
  • Comply with and enforce established safety and environmental rules, standards, and regulations, including exercising Stop Work Authority when appropriate.
  • Start up, operate, monitor, adjust, and shut down process equipment and systems, including pumps, air coolers, fired furnaces, and reciprocating and centrifugal compressors.
  • Monitor process flows, temperatures, levels, and pressures in an outdoor operating environment, recognizing hazards and taking prompt action to prevent, eliminate, or mitigate process upsets.
  • Troubleshoot equipment and process-related issues, monitor maintenance needs, prepare work notifications, and promptly report unsafe or abnormal conditions to the Shift Supervisor.
  • Collect product samples and perform required field quality-control testing, including work at heights of up to 115 feet.
  • Complete shift turnovers, participate in shift safety meetings, and accurately maintain required surveys, checklists, inventories, reports, and journals using company computer systems.
  • Maintain assigned work areas and equipment in a safe, clean, and orderly condition.
  • Collaborate effectively with maintenance, environmental, inspection, and contractor personnel, and assist with employee training as assigned.
  • Attend emergency-response training, remain current on all required qualifications, including basic firefighting and respond to refinery emergencies as required.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by the Operations Supervisor.

Note: This description is intended to give you a general overview of the position. Additional responsibilities and opportunities may be identified based on current business needs.
Qualifications
To meet the basic qualifications for this role, you will have legal authorization to work permanently in the United States for any employer without requiring a visa transfer or visa sponsorship. To comply with the regulations at this work location, successful applicants must be eligible to obtain a TWIC card (Transportation Worker Identification Credential). Please review eligibility criteria at https://www.tsa.gov/for-industry/twic.
Education and Experience:
  • High School Diploma or GED required
  • Three (3) years of successful full-time employment, previous full-time employment in an industrial capacity preferred
  • Documented successful training in an electro-mechanical operation or trade preferred
  • Computer knowledge, skills & abilities desired
  • Knowledge of basic chemistry, engineering, and/or physics desired

Other Qualifications:
  • Must possess a valid, acceptable U.S. Driver's License
  • Availability and willingness to work 12-Hour shifts on rotating day/night shift schedule required
  • Must be available to work during off-hours to include staff coverage needs, emergencies & turnarounds
  • Must be able to take call outs and be on standby frequently. Mandatory overtime required.
  • Must be available and able to work weekends, holidays, day and night shifts on a regular and reliable basis
  • Must be willing and able to climb ladders and work at heights of up to 115 feet (approximately 10-12 stories)

Additional qualifications include:
Complete aptitude testing within the test window - October 31-December 19
Available to start in April 2027
About Us
At Par Pacific, we own and operate market-leading energy and infrastructure businesses in logistically complex markets. We have built a team of downstream industry veterans and subject matter experts to lead our organization with an entrepreneurial spirit and a collaborative, problem solving approach. We bring our diverse strengths and motivation to complex markets where we seek out diamonds in the rough. As a nimble, growing organization, we actively pursue new opportunities with corporate financing know-how, respond to local market demands, and adapt to changing external environments.
More Good Reasons to Work for Par Pacific
Unique Culture and RICH Values
There is nothing ordinary about Par Pacific -- a niche player in the energy space. And there's certainly nothing ordinary about Par Pacific employees. We are driven, hardworking, entrepreneurial-minded professionals who love to win. Our RICH values describe how we approach our work: Respect for Others, Integrity, Collaborative Innovation, and Heart. If that describes you, you'll fit right in.
Location, Location, Location
Because Par Pacific operates in some of the most beautiful places throughout the country, our employees get to make these places their home and enrich their lives. The manufacturing plant where you'll work is in the Kapolei (Campbell Industrial Park). Located on the southwest side of O'ahu, Kapolei, named for the volcanic cone Pu'u of Kapolei, is colloquially known as the "second city." It is a vibrant, affluent city that is growing rapidly and is within a few miles of beautiful beaches, campsites and adventure parks.
Opportunistic Growth Strategy
At Par Pacific, we look for operations with strong fundamentals and great employees who can move a business forward. Our management team has deep experience in the energy industry, as well as in leading mergers, acquisitions, and integrations of newly acquired companies.
Focused on the Future
We are an energy company that has recognized the imperative and embraced the opportunity to begin the transition from fossil fuels. We are developing products that help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Excellent Compensation and Benefits
In addition to a competitive salary, we offer a strong comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental and vision insurance, a robust allotment of paid time off, a 401(k) with company match, retirement savings plans, educational reimbursement, and more. Full-time employees (and their families) are offered medical (with prescription coverage), dental, vision, voluntary critical illness, accident, life/AD&D insurance, Flexible Spending Account and Employee Assistance Program. Employees can purchase company stock at discounted prices through the Employee Stock Purchase Program.
Hiring Range:
The hiring range for this position is $31.62 per hour based on Collective Bargaining Agreement
Our Headquarters
Par Pacific Holdings, Inc., based in Houston, Texas, owns, manages and maintains interests in energy and infrastructure businesses. We are a growing energy company focused on renewable and conventional fuels in the Western United States. Par Pacific also owns 46% of Laramie Energy, LLC, a natural gas production company with operations and assets concentrated in Western Colorado. Our common stock is publicly traded on the NYSE under the trading symbol "PARR".
Our Refineries and Logistics Operations
We own and operate refineries in Hawaii, Montana, Washington, and Wyoming, with total operating throughput capacity of over 219 Mbpd. Par Pacific owns and operates one of the largest energy networks in Hawaii with 94,000 bpd of operating refining capacity, a logistics system supplying the major islands of the state and 90 retail locations. In the Pacific Northwest and the Rockies, Par Pacific owns and operates 125,000 bpd of combined refining capacity and related multimodal logistics systems.
Our Retail Operations
We own and operate over 90 retail locations in Hawaii under the Hele and 76 brands and over 30 retail locations in Washington and Idaho under the nomnom brand.
Par Pacific Is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Par Pacific prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information or any other status protected by applicable law.
Note: Par Pacific will not accept calls or unsolicited resumes from third-party recruiters. All candidates are required to apply through this web posting.

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