ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Refinery Process Operator Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

CleanHarbors

Manager Refinery Operations

Wichita, KS · On-site

Safety-Kleen Systems , in Wichita , KS , is hiring for Refinery Operations Manager , to join their ... Ensures process operation within safe operating limits, compliance with all regulatory, permit and ...

Clean Harbors

Manager Refinery Operations

Wichita, KS · On-site

Safety-Kleen Systems , in Wichita , KS , is hiring for Refinery Operations Manager , to join their ... Ensures process operation within safe operating limits, compliance with all regulatory, permit and ...

Clean Harbors

Manager Refinery Operations

Wichita, KS · On-site

Safety-Kleen Systems , in Wichita , KS , is hiring for Refinery Operations Manager , to join their ... Ensures process operation within safe operating limits, compliance with all regulatory, permit and ...

HF Sinclair

Refinery Planning Optimizer

El Dorado, KS · On-site

Interacts with Operations, Process Engineering, Commercial, and Turnaround teams regularly to ... Manages the daily optimization activities to ensure the refinery is operating at plan feed rates ...

Cvr Energy, Inc.

Process Engineer III

Coffeyville, KS · On-site

... Refinery with responsibilities of daily monitoring and troubleshooting of the area(s), process optimization, design and development of capital projects * Work in a team environment with operators and ...

CVR Energy, Inc.

Process Engineer III

Coffeyville, KS · On-site

... Refinery with responsibilities of daily monitoring and troubleshooting of the area(s), process optimization, design and development of capital projects * Work in a team environment with operators and ...

Koch

Process Safety Engineer

Wichita, KS · On-site

$110 - $150/hr

... operating sites. This will include occasional risk assessment facilitation and work towards ... Flint Hills Resources (oil refining), Koch Ag & Energy Solutions (ammonia fertilizers), Invista ...

Aerotek

Machine Operator

Wichita, KS

$18 - $21/hr

Comfort working with basic hand tools and equipment related to material processing. * Ability to ... refine and expand your skills in inventory management, equipment operation, and manufacturing ...

GAF

Asphalt Yard Process Engineer I

Newton, KS · On-site

$64K - $88K/yr

... teammates to refine procedures and methods to increase production efficiency * Continuous ... agencies as dictated by the Plant operating permits • Act as main contact for Plant ...

Gaf

Asphalt Yard Process Engineer I

Newton, KS · On-site

$64K - $88K/yr

... teammates to refine procedures and methods to increase production efficiency * Continuous ... operating permits Act as main contact for Plant's environmental consultant * Other Duties Carry ...

DAIRY FARMERS OF AMERICA

AI Office Lead

Kansas City, KS · On-site

Own the AI operating model - continually refine processes, roles, and standards for the AI initiative lifecycle (from Ideation/Intake to Proof-of-Concept, Pilot, and Production), to enable scalable ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsRefinery Process Operator JobsRefinery Process Operator Jobs in Kansas

Refinery Process Operator information

See Kansas salary details

$12

$18

$27

How much do refinery process operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for refinery process operator in Kansas is $18.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.30 and $20.58 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 Kansas?

For Refinery Process Operator jobs in Kansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Refinery Process Operator jobs in Kansas look for?

The top searched job categories for Refinery Process Operator jobs in Kansas are:

Refinery Process Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Refinery Process Operator job openings in Kansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,227 per year, or $18.9 per hour.

Soybean Processing Plant - Process Operator

Cherryvale, KS • On-site

ssc
Real Estate • 10K+ employees
Learn more about sscexternal

$24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

The Basics

Process Operator I is an entry-level role designed to introduce Team Members to the dynamic crush plant environment and learning to provide hands-on support to daily operations

 

Location: Cherryvale, KS

Compensation: $24/hr and up

Days/Hours: These operator will work a 12 hour shift in a ‘4 days on, 4 days off’ pattern. They will rotate between 7am-7pm and 7pm-7am every 2 months.

Equipment Used: Various equipment and machinery to move soybeans and extract and refine the oil

Material Handled: Bulk soybeans, soybean meal, soybean oil

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

  • Excellent benefits including medical, dental, vision, PTO, Holidays, Profit Sharing, and 401(k) with match
  • Uniforms provided
  • PPE provided by the company
  • Boot reimbursement
  • Cold weather clothing reimbursement
  • A culture of safety
  • Uniform Services Time Off (USTO)
  • Uniform Services Differential Pay
  • A culture that appreciates Team Members

 

What you’ll be doing:

The duties of this hands-on job will include cracking, heating and flaking soybeans to prepare it for extraction of the oil inside. Once the oil is extracted, it will be refined, depending on the intended end use of the product. This multi-step process will be done by operating state-of-the-art machinery. While many of these processes will be automated, each operator must be highly trained to monitor the process and make adjustments to ensure maximum yield. You are responsible for food safety.

 

Specific Job Duties:

  • Follow all safety policies and procedures, actively contributing to a strong safety culture.
  • Housekeeping duties which include sampling, equipment greasing duties
  • Knowledgeable and compliant with all GMP standards
  • Complete Operations Trainings which include sampling standards
  • Operate and monitor equipment and control systems in designated areas such as preparation, refinery, extraction, and grain drying.
  • Conduct routine sampling, input data into computer systems, and monitor processing to ensure accuracy and efficiency.
  • Complete training in all federal, state and local, food safety and health regulations
  • Inspect facility buildings, grounds, and equipment to identify issues, perform light maintenance, and complete minor repairs.
  • Collaborate with team members and supervisors to support continuous improvement and maintain a team-oriented work environment.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
  • Perform other duties assigned to support overall plant operation Process Operators will be cross trained to perform a variety of tasks.

Requirements to be successful in this position:

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Experience in a processing plant, refinery, mill, or elevator is preferred
  • Available to work off hours and weekends
  • For safety reasons, must be able to read, write, understand and follow written and/or verbal instructions in English
  • Professional demeanor (safety conscious, quality of job performance, cleanliness, and verbal communications)
  • Able to pass a criminal background check

 

Here are some of the physical requirements for this role:

  • This job can be physically strenuous
  • You will be expected to be able to work in tight and confined spaces
  • You will work at heights
  • You will need the ability to frequently lift, push and pull up to 50 pounds and occasionally more
  • This job will require the ability to ascend/descend ladders
  • You will be required to wear PPE

 

 

Apply