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Refinery Process Operator Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

CHS, Inc.

Refinery Zone Superintendent

Mcpherson, KS · On-site

We are looking for a Refinery Zone Superintendent to be responsible for process area (Zone) management including ensuring process safety, meeting the comprehensive operating plan, providing ...

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 ...

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 ...

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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 Jun 14, 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.

How hard is it to become a refinery operator?

Becoming a refinery process operator typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, along with on-the-job training or technical schooling. Many operators learn through apprenticeships or company training programs, and obtaining certifications such as OSHA safety training can be beneficial. The role demands technical skills, attention to safety protocols, and the ability to work in a demanding environment, but it is generally accessible with the right training and experience.

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 does a 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 interpret data from gauges and control systems, perform routine maintenance, and ensure safety protocols are followed to maintain efficient operations.

How much do refinery 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 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.

Is it hard to get into the refinery?

Becoming a refinery process operator typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, along with on-the-job training or technical certifications. Entry can be competitive due to the specialized skills involved, such as understanding complex equipment and safety procedures, but opportunities are available for those with relevant technical knowledge and a strong work ethic.

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 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 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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 82% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,227 per year, or $18.9 per hour.
Refinery Zone Superintendent

Refinery Zone Superintendent

CHS, Inc.

Mcpherson, KS

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

CHS Inc. rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 34 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

55th of 341 rated logistics

Job description

CHS Inc. is a leading global agribusiness owned by farmers, ranchers and cooperatives across the United States that provides grain, food and energy resources to businesses and consumers around the world.  We serve agriculture customers and consumers across the United States and around the world.  Most of our employees are in the United States, but today we have employees in 19 countries. At CHS, we are creating connections to empower agriculture.

Summary

CHS, Inc. has an exciting opportunity at our McPherson, KS oil refinery. We are looking for a Refinery Zone Superintendent to be responsible for process area (Zone) management including ensuring process safety, meeting the comprehensive operating plan, providing engineering support for operations, monitoring equipment, monitoring catalyst activity, and trouble-shooting process problems. To be successful you must be able to establish and maintain networks across organizational lines, a strategic leader who is detail-oriented, collaborative, and adaptable with a commitment to results and quality. Excellent verbal and written communication skills including proven ability to build strong working relationships, as well as ability to manage work in a fast-paced environment are essential. 

Responsibilities
  • Manage the assets of the assigned Zone to deliver on the comprehensive operating plan. Elements of the comprehensive operating plan include, but are not limited to:
    • Be responsible for Safety Management (PSM compliance and safe work performance)
    • Ensure Environmental Stewardship (compliance and improvement)
    • Maintain Production Capability (facilitating maintenance and driving reliability
    • Direct the resources of the zone to create value (relieving constraints and optimizing processes)
    • Lead Change (making physical asset and work process improvements happen)
    • Be accountable for the process performance of assigned Zone 24/7/365 
  • Optimize efforts on a daily and long-term basis to ensure safe process unit operation, achieve good environmental control, minimize energy consumption, and maximize profitability
  • Provide guidance to the front-line Zone Supervisor to assure alignment with overall and long-term objectives 
  • Maintain and promote a strong safety culture and ensure all employees, maintenance and contractors working in responsible zone follow all safety policies, procedures, and regulations. Identify and communicate workplace hazards and correct or seek assistance in correcting unsafe actions or conditions.
  • Provide engineering support as needed for the Zone. Typical engineering examples include planning and executing maintenance and improvement, projects and fulfilling PSM requirements (e.g. MOC/PSSR/PHA) 
  • Actively be involved in all engineering projects and turnaround planning and execution responsibilities in the Zone
  • Collaborate with front-line Zone Supervisors and Training Supervisors to improve Operator capabilities through training and development
  • Collaborate with other Refinery Departments to schedule production and maintenance turnarounds.
  • Balance competing priorities to meet the comprehensive operating plan. Ability to resolve multiple issues to critical focuses in a dynamic context
  • Be able to respond to emergencies, exercise good judgment and critical incident management during Refinery incidents 
  • Overcome challenges presented by mechanical difficulties and comply with environmental and safety requirements that involve changing regulations and specifications 
  • Execute special assignments on an as needed or developmental basis. These will typically include coordinating with large capital projects, leading planning for large turnarounds, or leading business improvement projects.
  • Maintain Zone spending within the approved budget allocation for the fiscal period. 
  • Perform other responsibilities as needed or assigned.
Minimum Qualifications (required)
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Engineering Technology, or related field 
  • 4+ years of petroleum refining industry experience 
  • Prior leadership experience with progressively advancing level of leadership responsibilities
Additional Qualifications
  • 7+ years of petroleum refining industry experience
  • Prior experience supervising process unit operations 
  • Strong technical understanding of petroleum refinery operations, process design, petroleum product specifications, mechanical design, and construction processes
  • Accountable self-starter with an entrepreneurial attitude
  • Good communication and presentation skills
  • Excellent interpersonal and team skills
  • Good analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills
  • Pre-employment screening is based on the job requirements and industry guidelines and may or may not be required for the position. If required, selected candidates must pass pre-employment screenings to include all or a combination of drug, criminal, motor vehicle check, physical requirements and FMSCA Clearinghouse.

CHS offers a competitive total rewards package. Compensation includes base wage and, depending upon position, may include other earnings such as bonus, incentives and commissions. Actual pay offered will vary based on multiple factors which may include, without limitation, experience, education, training, specialized skills and certifications, minimum wage/salary requirements under local law.

Benefits include medical, dental, vision, wellness programs, life insurance, health and dependent care spending accounts, paid time off, 401(k), pension, profit sharing, short- and long-term disability, tuition reimbursement and adoption assistance, subject to the eligibility requirements for each benefit plan.

CHS is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disability.       

Please note that any communication from a CHS recruiter would be sent using a chsinc.com email address. In addition, a CHS recruiter will not ask for confidential information over the phone or in an email, or request money from a candidate involved in an offer process. If you have questions regarding an employment opportunity, please reach out to chscareers@chsinc.com; to verify that the communication is from CHS.

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