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Refinery Process Operator Jobs in Bakersfield, CA

GRAPEVINE OPERATING COMPANY LLC

Operator I

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$36.80 - $49.99/hr

Monitor and operate process and utility units, tank farms/logistics utilizing a wide range of ... High school diploma or GED required * 5 year minimum experience in refining or chemical plant ...

Lee Group Search

Operator

Bakersfield, CA

$36.80 - $49.99/hr

Monitor and operate process and utility units, tank farms/logistics utilizing a wide range of ... High school diploma or GED required * 5 year minimum experience in refining or chemical plant ...

All JobsRefinery Process Operator JobsRefinery Process Operator Jobs in Bakersfield, CA

Refinery Process Operator information

See Bakersfield, CA salary details

$14

$21

$32

How much do refinery process operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for refinery process operator in Bakersfield, CA is $21.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.89 and $23.85 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 Bakersfield, CA?

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

What job categories do people searching Refinery Process Operator jobs in Bakersfield, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Refinery Process Operator jobs in Bakersfield, CA are:

What cities near Bakersfield, CA are hiring for Refinery Process Operator jobs?

Cities near Bakersfield, CA with the most Refinery Process Operator job openings:

Refinery Process Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Refinery Process Operator job openings in Bakersfield, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, and 22% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,488 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Senior Process Engineer

GRAPEVINE OPERATING COMPANY LLC

Bakersfield, CA • On-site

$138K - $197K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:

The Senior Process Engineer provides technical support for refinery operations. They are responsible unit monitoring, daily troubleshooting, operations support, process optimization, and development of small capital projects / modifications to existing units.

Essential Functions:

  • Oversee day-to-day operational performance and optimization to ensure safe operations and that, regulatory, commercial, and logistical requirements are met
  • Monitor catalyst health and proactively report catalyst performance and end of run projections. Work closely with the catalyst supplier when needed.
  • Identify opportunities for improvement (proactively and reactively)
  • Participate in alarm rationalization (AOA)
  • Inspect field equipment installation according to the design and fabricator’s specifications during unit outages and upgrades.
  • Inspect vessel internals for proper installation and tolerances of components
  • Work with engineering and operations personnel to troubleshoot process upsets in and provide feedback on RCA (root cause analysis) reports as needed.
  • Work with vendors, licensors, and contractors to support debottlenecking, optimization, and troubleshooting as needed to maintain safe and reliable operations.
  • Provide operational technical support during test runs, commissioning, startups and shutdowns
  • Monitor daily process indicators and communicate performance, optimization opportunities, and environmental performance. Daily interaction and communication with field and board/console operators.
  • Assist troubleshooting efforts with upsets, product quality incidents, meeting production plans, etc.
  • Provide after-hours support when appropriate – emergency call out, etc.
  • Utilize Key Performance Indicators (KPI) as part of routine reporting (WABT curve, fouling, chemical and catalyst budgets, yields, etc.)
  • Manage catalyst performance and coordinate catalyst change timing.
  • Develop justification and work scope for T/A and routine maintenance – specifically catalyst changeout, exchanger cleaning, furnace pigging, etc.
  • Publish technical recommendation memos and turnaround reports
  • Support T/A with potential extended work schedules and/or night shifts as appropriate
  • Support/review operations procedures for start-up and shutdown
  • Review and approve vendor chemical programs
  • Small to medium capital project process engineering support
  • Lead and participate in the MOC process and participate in hazard reviews (What-Ifs, HAZOPs), support Process Safety Information (PSI) and troubleshooting
  • Support unit operation within environmental limits
  • Perform environmental calculations (leaks, maximum intended inventory, etc.)
  • Lead investigations for process related events
  • Maintain current work lists with priorities
  • Perform other tasks as assigned

Required Skills/Abilities:

  • Strong interpersonal skills and extremely resourceful
  • Proven ability to provide process engineering support for large complex industrial projects 
  • Familiarity with applicable health and safety regulations
  • Strong technical, analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate them when appropriate
  • Ability to function well in a high-paced and at times stressful environment
  • Proficient with Google Suite and Microsoft Office Suite

Education and Experience:

  • BS Chemical Engineering degree
  • MS and/or PhD Engineering degree, preferably in Chemical , preferred
  • 10+ years of process engineering operations support experience in petrochemical, refining, and/or renewable fuels processing.
  • Experience with renewable diesel production, hydroprocessing, hydrogen production, and gas plant equipment and ancillary support systems preferred

Physical Requirements:

  • Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer
  • Prolonged periods of standing and walking
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds
  • Ability to perform repetitive movements over long periods of time
  • Requires frequent reaching, stooping, bending, kneeling, and crouching
  • Requires lifting, positioning, pushing, and/or transferring equipment and materials
  • Ability to work in confined spaces and wear self-contained breathing apparatus
  • Must be able to climb ladders and or stairs on tanks, vessels and structures; wear respirator; work around equipment containing high pressures and temperatures and various chemicals

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Grapevine Operating Company provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.