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Refinery Process Operator Jobs in North Carolina

8 Rivers

Senior Process Engineer

Durham, NC · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

This role involves building and refining process models to support high-impact decisions and ... Conduct mass and energy balances to validate performance across various operating conditions.

8 Rivers

Senior Process Engineer

Durham, NC

$100K - $130K/yr

This role involves building and refining process models to support high-impact decisions and ... Conduct mass and energy balances to validate performance across various operating conditions.

8 Rivers

Senior Process Engineer

Durham, NC · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

This role involves building and refining process models to support high‑impact decisions and ... Conduct mass and energy balances to validate performance across various operating conditions.

Green New Energy Materials

Process Engineer

Denver, NC · On-site

Design, develop, and refine coating process parameters, workflows, and operating standards based on product and customer requirements. * Conduct process capability studies and optimize production ...

Amcor

Operator - FG, Stamper, DC -ASC

Reidsville, NC · On-site

Performs basic operator preventative maintenance to machines and/or tools; * Checks and inspects ... process, please call 224-313-7000 and let us know the nature of your request and your contact ...

Ames Copper Group LLC

Warehouse Operator

Shelby, NC

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

Description AMES Copper Group process is considered a secondary copper refinery. Secondary sources ... We are looking to fill an immediate need for a Warehouse Operator in Shelby, NC. We are looking for ...

Ames Copper Group LLC

Warehouse Operator

Shelby, NC · On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

AMES Copper Group process is considered a secondary copper refinery. Secondary sources include ... We are looking to fill an immediate need for a Warehouse Operator in Shelby, NC. We are looking for ...

Ames Copper Group

Warehouse Operator

Shelby, NC · On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

Job Type Full-time Description AMES Copper Group process is considered a secondary copper refinery ... We are looking to fill an immediate need for a Warehouse Operator in Shelby, NC. We are looking for ...

Clean Harbors

Operator

Sanford, NC · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Process all drummed used filters. * Responsible for facilities grounds maintenance. * Other duties ... re-refining of used motor oil to generate vacuum gas oil (VGO). Noble Oil is part of the Safety ...

Energizer Holdings

Senior Process Engineer

Asheboro, NC · On-site

$77K - $138K/yr

Collaborate with Plant staff, line operators, mechanics, supervisors, and quality control ... and refine systems involving process improvements, technology enhancements, and ergonomic ...

CleanHarbors

Operator Blending/Loading

Sanford, NC · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

... re-refining of used motor oil to generate vacuum gas oil (VGO). Noble Oil is part of the Safety ... Prepares paperwork for shipment, filing and processing * Calculates gallons and other calculations ...

Clean Harbors

Operator Blending/Loading

Sanford, NC · On-site

$14.16 - $32.88/hr

Prepares paperwork for shipment, filing and processing * Calculates gallons and other calculations ... re-refining of used motor oil to generate vacuum gas oil (VGO). Noble Oil is part of the Safety ...

Clean Harbors

Operator Blending/Loading

Sanford, NC

$19 - $22/hr

... re-refining of used motor oil to generate vacuum gas oil (VGO). Noble Oil is part of the Safety ... Prepares paperwork for shipment, filing and processing * Calculates gallons and other calculations ...

Clean Harbors

Operator Blending/Loading

Sanford, NC · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

... re-refining of used motor oil to generate vacuum gas oil (VGO). Noble Oil is part of the Safety ... Prepares paperwork for shipment, filing and processing * Calculates gallons and other calculations ...

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All JobsRefinery Process Operator JobsRefinery Process Operator Jobs in North Carolina

Refinery Process Operator information

See North Carolina salary details

$12

$19

$28

How much do refinery process operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for refinery process operator in North Carolina is $19.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $20.96 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 North Carolina?

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

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

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

Refinery Process Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Refinery Process Operator job openings in North Carolina as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,973 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

Senior Process Engineer

Durham, NC • On-site

8 Rivers
See more jobs at 8 Riversexternal

$100K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Company
8 Rivers is a Durham, NC firm focused on the invention, development, and commercialization of sustainable, infrastructure-scale solutions to global problems through impactful technologies. The company maintains the agility, creativity, and fast-paced environment of a start-up, while partnering with large, industry-leading companies to develop and deploy those technologies. Our process enables us to innovate in industrial fields that are lacking in creative disruption. 8 Rivers has demonstrated expertise in generating and commercializing large-scale, meaningful solutions to some of the most challenging problems facing the world today and across a variety of industries in the clean energy, carbon capture, and clean fuels sectors.
The company innovates widely in adjacent markets in the clean energy technology space. Some of our marquee technologies include the Allam-Fetvedt Cycle - a zero-emission power production system that enables low-cost power production with inherent carbon capture, 8RH2 - our innovative clean hydrogen technology utilizing CO2 convective reforming to achieve > 99% carbon capture.
Opportunity
8 Rivers is seeking a Senior Process Engineer to design, optimize and commercialize a portfolio of innovative energy technologies and project development opportunities. This role is ideal for an entrepreneurial engineer who is excited to work at the intersection of technology development, commercialization, and sustainability, and who wants to contribute to the deployment of transformative energy solutions.
This role involves building and refining process models to support high-impact decisions and advance the company's and client's growth, commercialization, and decarbonization objectives.
This role is ideal for entrepreneurial engineers with technology incubation and commercialization background, or technical candidates with desire to engage in business development activities.
Responsibilities
Process Modeling & Optimization
  • Build simulation models using software like Aspen Plus to evaluate system performance.
  • Optimize process thermodynamic cycles to achieve lowest levelized cost.
  • Conduct mass and energy balances to validate performance across various operating conditions.
  • Scale up designs to full infrastructure-scale deployment.

Technology Commercialization & Strategy
  • Advance commercialization efforts by bridging the gap between technical concepts and market-ready infrastructure solutions.
  • Evaluate market viability of new clean energy technologies alongside business development teams.
  • Inform capital decisions by translating complex technical process data into clear financial metrics.
  • Conduct techno-economic assessments to compare novel system costs against traditional energy baselines.
  • Partner with business development to evaluate market viability, identify project opportunities, and engage prospective clients.
  • De-risk technology portfolios by identifying critical technical bottlenecks prior to commercial rollout.
  • Draft technical documentation including white papers, patents, and specifications to protect intellectual property.

Project Development & Engineering
  • Partner with industry leaders and global vendors to seamlessly integrate proprietary 8 Rivers systems.
  • Develop engineering packages including Basic Engineering Package (BEP) and Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs)
  • Support client engagement by tailoring core technologies to unique customer site needs.
  • Maintain startup agility by rapidly pivoting designs based on commercial feedback.

Required Qualifications
  • Engineering degree: Bachelor's degree or higher in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
  • Process simulation expertise: Strong proficiency building and refining steady-state and dynamic models in Aspen Plus, Aspen Hysys, or similar software.
  • Thermodynamic proficiency: Deep understanding of advanced thermodynamic cycles, heat integration, and mass/energy balances.
  • Core chemical process knowledge: minimum of 3 years working in industries such as power production from fossil fuels, syngas generation/processing/ cleanup, hydrogen /ammonia, and/or with exposure to point source capture, and/or clean energy technologies
  • Design package creation: Experience developing Basic Engineering Packages (BEP) and Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs), Heat and Material Balance (HMB) and equipment specifications.
  • Scale-up experience: Experience moving complex industrial chemical processes from conceptual or pilot scale to commercial deployment.
  • Cross-functional communication: Ability to translate highly technical process data into clear, actionable business insights for non-technical stakeholders

Preferred Qualifications
  • Commercialization background: Demonstrated experience working directly with business development teams to evaluate market viability and pitch technologies.
  • Techno-economic modeling: Experience conducting techno-economic assessments (TEAs) and capital cost estimation for novel energy technologies.
  • Advanced power cycle experience: Specific familiarity with the Allam-Fetvedt Cycle, supercritical CO2 (sCO₂) systems, or advanced hydrogen production.
  • Startup agility: Background working in fast-paced, entrepreneurial environments or technology incubators.
  • Intellectual property involvement: Experience collaborating on patent applications, drafting technical white papers, or securing technology IP.

Apply