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Refinery Process Operator Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

... refining, petrochemical, chemical, gas processing, or a related process industry. * Expertise in ... A team of engineers, scientists, operators, builders, and innovators working on hard problems with ...

... process consulting, with services designed to lower environmental impact. With 22,000 clients ... Skill in setting up and adjusting machines for finishing operations and to refine such adjustments ...

... process consulting, with services designed to lower environmental impact. With 22,000 clients ... Skill in setting up and adjusting machines for finishing operations and to refine such adjustments ...

Collator Operator

Quakertown, PA · On-site

$19.16 - $27.45/hr

... process consulting, with services designed to lower environmental impact. With 22,000 clients ... Skill in setting up and adjusting machines for finishing operations and to refine such adjustments ...

... processing industry operating pumps, meters and proportion equipment preferred, valid driver ... Five terminals have robust rail offload capability for renewable and refined products and two ...

Be Seen First

... processing industry operating pumps, meters and proportion equipment preferred * Valid Driver ... Five terminals have robust rail offload capability for renewable and refined products and two ...

... processing industry operating pumps, meters and proportion equipment preferred * Valid Driver ... Five terminals have robust rail offload capability for renewable and refined products and two ...

Lead Engineer, Process Design

New Britain, PA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

... refining, petrochemical, chemical, gas processing, or a related process industry. * Expertise in ... A team of engineers, scientists, operators, builders, and innovators working on hard problems with ...

Production Operator

Chambersburg, PA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

The Production System Operator works with a variety of processing systems used to clean, size, refine, granulate, package, and prepare products to customer specifications. This position requires ...

The Production System Operator works with a variety of processing systems used to clean, size, refine, granulate, package, and prepare products to customer specifications. This position requires ...

Production Operator

Chambersburg, PA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

The Production System Operator works with a variety of processing systems used to clean, size, refine, granulate, package, and prepare products to customer specifications. This position requires ...

Autonomous Vehicle Test Operator II

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$17.75 - $21.75/hr

... tests, refine test and verification plans, identify and resolve issues, and provide test results ... processes and procedures, and improving overall testing efficiency by identifying gaps and ...

Autonomous Vehicle Test Operator II

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$17.75 - $21.75/hr

... tests, refine test and verification plans, identify and resolve issues, and provide test results ... processes and procedures, and improving overall testing efficiency by identifying gaps and ...

Autonomous Vehicle Test Operator II

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$17.75 - $21.75/hr

... tests, refine test and verification plans, identify and resolve issues, and provide test results ... processes and procedures, and improving overall testing efficiency by identifying gaps and ...

Showing results 21-40

Refinery Process Operator information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$14

$21

$31

How much do refinery process operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for refinery process operator in Pennsylvania is $21.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.32 and $23.12 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 job categories do people searching Refinery Process Operator jobs in Pennsylvania look for?

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

What cities in Pennsylvania are hiring for Refinery Process Operator jobs?

Cities in Pennsylvania with the most Refinery Process Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Refinery Process Operator job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,090 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

Lead Engineer, Process Design

AIRCO

New Britain, PA

$100K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

The Position

We are seeking a Lead Engineer, Process Design to join our team. This role will report to our Manager of Engineering. This position will provide technical leadership on engineering flowsheet development, process simulation and design, process mass and heat balance generation, process equipment selection and design, PFDs, P&IDs, equipment datasheets etc. This role will be a part of our Engineering department, and will work closely with our scientists, engineers, and operations team. This role is based in New Britain, PA and works on-site three days per week

What you get to do.

  • Lead the development of Process Design Packages for new technologies developed by AIRCO research and development organization. These packages will provide the technical basis for FEL, FEED, and detailed engineering performed by EPC contractors.
  • Lead process synthesis, simulation and design, generation of material & heat balance, equipment selection and design, PFD and P&ID generation, equipment data sheet generation, process hydraulics calculation, HAZOP reviews for commercial units based on carbon dioxide conversion technologies developed by AIRCO
  • Serve as the primary process-engineering liaison among R&D, operations, EPC contractors, customers, and other engineering disciplines throughout project development, construction support, commissioning, and startup
  • Support process-economic evaluations, cost estimates, project planning, and technical decision making by clearly communicating assumptions, findings, risks, and recommendations 
  • Ensure compliance with applicable engineering standards, internal design guidelines, and environmental, health and safety regulations for all the AIRCO developed technologies and processes. 
  • Represent AIRCO in external meetings and present engineering solutions, technical recommendations, and process-design packages.
  • Develop engineering standards and work practices, mentor internal teams, and promote a safe, collaborative, and high-quality engineering environment.

What you bring to AIRCO

  • Bachelor's degree in chemical engineering required; advanced degree preferred
  • 10-15 years of design experience in refining, petrochemical, chemical, gas processing, or a related process industry.  
  • Expertise in industry-standard process simulation modeling: Aspen Plus, HYSYS
  • Expertise in generating commercial scale heat and material balances, PFDs, P&IDs, equipment specifications, datasheets, hydraulics, and Process Design Packages.
  • Strong knowledge of process equipment design, development, sizing, and selection.

Working at AIRCO - In addition to standard medical and dental benefits, that kick in Day 1, AIRCO is: 

  • A team of engineers, scientists, operators, builders, and innovators working on hard problems with tangible impact.
  • A company building and deploying real systems for fuel and chemical production in real-world conditions.
  • A hands-on environment where ownership is clear, decisions stay close to the work, and teams move with trust, discipline, and speed.
  • Driven by work that matters, with a culture grounded in safety, teamwork, transparency, purpose, agility, ambition, and creativity.

We also provide:

Comprehensive Health Benefits

  • Full coverage for employee base premiums on health, dental, and vision insurance.
  • 70% coverage for spouse and dependent base premiums.
  • Choose between base plans or enhanced options to fit your needs.

Health Savings & Flexibility

  • Access company-sponsored HSA and FSA accounts to save on healthcare and dependent care expenses.

Income Protection & Insurance

  • Company-paid Short-Term Disability insurance.
  • Optional Long-Term Disability and Life Insurance plans.

Time Off & Leave

  • Flexible and generous paid time off, including national holidays and sick leave.
  • Paid family leave to support you during important life moments.

Retirement Savings

  • Tax-deferred 401(k) plan with a 3% company match to help you invest in your future.

Commuter Benefits

  • Pre-tax savings on transit and parking, plus monthly company contributions.

Additional Perks

  • Ancillary benefits through Sequoia, including pet insurance and financial wellness programs.
  • Employee wellness program to support your well-being.Inclusive of Wellhub & One Medical. 
  • Company-sponsored events and programs that promote an inclusive and values-driven workplace.
  • In person weekly catered lunch every Wednesday.