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Refinery Process Operator Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA

ExxonMobil

Process Safety Engineer

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

... refinery in the United States, the Baton Rouge Chemical Plant and several other plants and ... Advise operating sites in the management of process safety risks and hazards associated with the ...

ExxonMobil

Process Safety Engineer

Baton Rouge, LA

... refinery in the United States, the Baton Rouge Chemical Plant and several other plants and ... Advise operating sites in the management of process safety risks and hazards associated with the ...

ExxonMobil

Process Safety Engineer

Baton Rouge, LA

... refinery in the United States, the Baton Rouge Chemical Plant and several other plants and ... Advise operating sites in the management of process safety risks and hazards associated with the ...

Westlake

SR Engineer Process Safety

Geismar, LA

Eight (8) years of refinery or chemical plant experience is preferred. * Must have legal ... Some work may be required in the operating units, which can necessitate the use of required ...

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All JobsRefinery Process Operator JobsRefinery Process Operator Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA

Refinery Process Operator information

See Baton Rouge, LA salary details

$11

$16

$24

How much do refinery process operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for refinery process operator in Baton Rouge, LA is $16.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.33 and $18.12 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 Baton Rouge, LA? For Refinery Process Operator jobs in Baton Rouge, LA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Refinery Process Operator jobs in Baton Rouge, LA look for? The top searched job categories for Refinery Process Operator jobs in Baton Rouge, LA are:
What cities near Baton Rouge, LA are hiring for Refinery Process Operator jobs? Cities near Baton Rouge, LA with the most Refinery Process Operator job openings:
Refinery Process Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Refinery Process Operator job openings in Baton Rouge, LA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,508 per year, or $16.6 per hour.

Process Engineer| Refinery Operations

Engineers and Constructors International Inc

Baton Rouge, LA • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Drive performance. Elevate safety. Shape the future of refinery operations.
Our client is hiring a Process Engineer to join a refinery complex in the greater Baton Rouge area. This is a high-visibility, hands-on role for an engineer who wants to make a direct impact on reliability, safety, and profitability in a live operating environment.
You'll act as the technical authority for assigned units-working side-by-side with Operations, Maintenance, and Project Engineering to solve real problems, optimize performance, and carry improvements from concept through startup.
What You'll Be Responsible For
  • Monitor daily operations, identify critical process deviations, and drive timely resolution
  • Lead root cause analyses and develop practical, data-driven solutions
  • Evaluate and scope operational improvement opportunities with a strong economic lens
  • Develop and guide process designs through engineering standards and into execution
  • Support construction, commissioning, and startup activities
  • Serve as a technical consultant for MOC, HAZOPs, PSAs, and incident investigations
  • Partner closely with unit supervisors and cross-functional teams
  • Contribute to turnaround planning, equipment inspections, and pre-startup safety reviews
  • Prepare monthly performance reports and apply lessons learned to prevent repeat issues

What You Bring
Education & Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering
  • 5 -10+ years of refinery or similar process-intensive industrial experience preferred
Technical Strength
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Solid understanding of refinery processes and unit interactions
  • Experience with process simulation tools, spreadsheets, and technical documentation
Communication & Influence
  • Ability to communicate effectively with operations, leadership, and external partners
  • Confidence to act as a trusted technical resource in a fast-paced operating environment

Work Environment
  • Combination of office and field-based work
  • Ability to walk units, climb ladders/stairs, and work at heights up to 50 feet
  • Ability to lift up to 25 pounds and respond effectively during emergency situations
Why Engineers Choose This Role
  • Direct ownership of unit performance in a refinery complex
  • Exposure to high-impact operational and capital projects
  • Strong collaboration between Engineering and Operations
  • Opportunity to deepen technical expertise while expanding influence and credibility

Please Note: The ECI Group uses AI-assisted tools in the early stages of application review, with all decisions guided by human oversight and fully compliant with General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and ECI Group's applicable data protection policies and Privacy Notice.

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