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Refinery Process Operator Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA

Cajun Industries

Piping Design Lead

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

Review process flow diagrams, piping and instrumentation diagrams, line lists, equipment data ... operating facilities. Coordinate field measurements and validate existing conditions prior to ...

New

Flowserve

Machinist, Second Shift

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$21 - $28.50/hr

Experience operating manual lathes and milling machines. * Ability to read and interpret ... inspection processes. * Military mechanical experience. * Industrial maintenance, refinery ...

Flowserve

Machinist, Second Shift

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$19.25 - $25.50/hr

Experience operating manual lathes and milling machines. * Ability to read and interpret ... inspection processes. * Military mechanical experience. * Industrial maintenance, refinery ...

Cajun Industries

Piping Design Lead

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

This position will lead piping design activities for industrial projects supporting the refining ... concepts that address process requirements, operability, maintenance access, safety ...

New

Amspec LLC.

Inspector

Gonzales, LA

Familiarity with basic computer skills in word processing and spreadsheet programs. * Required to ... Must be able to work in refineries, terminals, and on-board marine vessels as necessary. * Must ...

AmSpec Group

Inspector

Gonzales, LA · On-site

Familiarity with basic computer skills in word processing and spreadsheet programs. * Required to ... Must be able to work in refineries, terminals, and on-board marine vessels as necessary. * Must ...

Air Liquide

Production Technician

Geismar, LA · On-site

$18.25 - $22.75/hr

... petrochemicals, refining and steel industries. Our pipeline operations and industrial gas ... operating procedures, corporate procedures; read and interpret blueprints, flow charts, process ...

Air Liquide

Production Technician

Geismar, LA · On-site

$18.25 - $22.75/hr

... petrochemicals, refining and steel industries. Our pipeline operations and industrial gas ... operating procedures, corporate procedures; read and interpret blueprints, flow charts, process ...

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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 Jul 15, 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.

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 equipment used in refining crude oil into products like gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel. They interpret data from gauges and instruments, adjust valves and controls, and ensure safety and efficiency in the plant's operations, often working in shifts and following strict safety protocols.

How much do refinery operators make in the US?

Refinery process operators in the US typically earn an average annual salary of around $70,000 to $80,000, with experienced workers and those in higher-cost-of-living areas earning more. 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.

How do I become a refinery operator?

To become a refinery process operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with technical training or an associate degree in process technology, chemistry, or a related field. On-the-job training is common, and operators often obtain certifications such as the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) or industry-specific safety certifications. Strong mechanical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a safety-sensitive environment are essential.

How hard is it to get a job at a refinery?

Securing a refinery process operator position typically requires relevant technical skills, such as knowledge of process control systems and safety procedures, along with a high school diploma or equivalent. Employers often look for prior experience or certifications like OSHA training, and the job can involve shift work in a demanding environment, making competition moderate to high depending on location and experience level.

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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 53% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,508 per year, or $16.6 per hour.

Mid-Senior Petrochemical Professionals

Hire Resolve.com

Baton Rouge, LA • On-site

$100K - $137K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Hire Resolve is assisting petrochemical organizations in hiring experienced petrochemical professionals to support refinery, chemical, and downstream manufacturing operations across the United States. This is a multi-role opportunity spanning several functions within the sector—such as plant operations, process and project engineering, reliability and maintenance, EHS/PSM, quality, supply chain, and commercial/technical services. These openings are designed for mid- to senior-level talent and offer a clear pathway toward senior leadership roles, including superintendent, plant/area manager, engineering manager, and regional leadership positions.

Key Responsibilities
  • Lead and optimize safe, efficient plant operations across continuous and batch processes, utilities, and supporting units
  • Drive process improvements, debottlenecking, yield optimization, energy efficiency, and cost reduction initiatives
  • Support or lead capital projects from scope definition through execution, commissioning, and handover (FEL/front-end planning through start-up)
  • Develop and maintain technical documentation, procedures, and operating envelopes (P&IDs, SOPs, MOCs, PSM elements, etc.)
  • Strengthen reliability programs including preventive/predictive maintenance, RCA, turnaround planning, and asset integrity strategies
  • Ensure compliance with OSHA process safety management (PSM), EPA risk management expectations (where applicable), and site EHS programs
  • Implement risk assessments and safe work systems (PHA/HAZOP participation, JSA, LOTO, contractor safety oversight)
  • Manage cross-functional teams and stakeholders (operations, maintenance, engineering, labs, contractors, vendors) to deliver site goals
  • Monitor KPIs and performance dashboards for safety, production, quality, reliability, and budget adherence
  • Support audits and inspections; coordinate corrective actions and continuous improvement plans
  • Contribute to talent development through coaching, training plans, and succession planning within operations and technical teams

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Chemistry, or a related technical discipline (advanced degree or relevant certifications are a plus)
  • Typically 7–15+ years of experience in petrochemical, refining, specialty chemicals, polymers, industrial gases, or adjacent process manufacturing environments
  • Working knowledge of core petrochemical processes and plant systems, with demonstrated exposure to one or more functional tracks (operations leadership, process engineering, reliability, maintenance, EHS/PSM, projects, quality, or commercial/technical support)
  • Familiarity with U.S. safety and compliance expectations (OSHA, PSM, LOTO, contractor safety; EPA and DOT awareness depending on role/site)
  • Competency with common engineering and maintenance systems (e.g., SAP/Maximo, PI System or similar historians, MOC/PSM tools, CMMS, basic data analysis in Excel)
  • Strong communication skills for plant-floor execution and cross-functional leadership; able to document, present, and influence stakeholders
  • Ability to work onsite in an industrial environment; some roles may require shift coverage, on-call rotation, or travel depending on site needs

Benefits

  • Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
  • Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
  • Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
  • Training & Development