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Refinery Process Operator Jobs in Baytown, TX (NOW HIRING)

Reactor Operator

Pearland, TX ยท On-site

$30/hr

Minimum 2 years of experience as a Process Operator or in process operations within a chemical manufacturing, petrochemical, refinery, terminal, or similar industrial facility required. Skills and ...

Staff Process Engineer

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$140K - $175K/yr

You will help design, deploy, and operate first-of-its-kind refining processes for critical ... operating procedures, and control narratives * Analyze experimental and operational data to ...

Senior Process Engineer

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$50 - $65/hr

... refineries * Identify, evaluate, and implement engineering solutions to optimize process and reactor designs, confirming functionality and performance under various operating conditions What You ll ...

... petrochemical, refining, and specialty chemicals industries. Together, we can create a legacy ... Process Technology degree or at least two years of experience in chemical manufacturing, industrial ...

Job Summary Manages multiple decontamination projects using Zyme-Flow in refinery process units and ... Support Project Specialist and Field Operators in execution. * Manage Travel Request Team excluding ...

... petrochemical, refining, and specialty chemicals industries. Together, we can create a legacy ... Process Technology degree or at least two years of experience in chemical manufacturing, industrial ...

... oil and gas, refining, petrochemical, chemical, LNG, hydrogen, energy, or related process ... Field experience involving operating facilities, construction, commissioning, or startup.

New

... capital / operating cost savings, process configuration alternatives, safety facilities ... petroleum refining / chemical process industry / with an engineering contractor serving these ...

Senior Process Engineer

Pasadena, TX ยท On-site

$120 - $160/hr

Define and maintain correct operating envelopes; investigate deviations. * Participate in the ... refining, or related process industries. * Demonstrated process design experience; production ...

Operator

La Porte, TX ยท On-site

... refineries * 2+ years of experience operating tank cleaning and processing equipment (e.g ... centrifuges, filter presses, decanters, robots, dredging units) * Ability to complete 40-hour ...

Operator

La Porte, TX ยท On-site

... refineries * 2+ years of experience operating tank cleaning and processing equipment (e.g ... centrifuges, filter presses, decanters, robots, dredging units) * Ability to complete 40-hour ...

Chemical Process Engineer

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$85 - $115/hr

Develop and maintain process documentation, including PFDs, P&IDs, operating procedures, and ... Preferred Requirements * 5-8 years of experience in chemical manufacturing, refining, petrochemical ...

Develop and maintain process documentation, including PFDs, P&IDs, operating procedures, and ... Preferred Requirements * 5-8 years of experience in chemical manufacturing, refining, petrochemical ...

Process Designer - Aveva P&ID

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Experience supporting EPC, consulting engineering, or owner-operator projects. * Familiarity with ... Knowledge of chemical processing, refining, manufacturing, specialty chemicals, pulp & paper, or ...

New

Showing results 21-40

Refinery Process Operator information

See Baytown, TX salary details

$12

$19

$28

How much do refinery process operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for refinery process operator in Baytown, TX is $19.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.63 and $21.01 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 Baytown, TX?

For Refinery Process Operator jobs in Baytown, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Refinery Process Operator jobs in Baytown, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Refinery Process Operator jobs in Baytown, TX are:

What cities near Baytown, TX are hiring for Refinery Process Operator jobs?

Cities near Baytown, TX with the most Refinery Process Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Refinery Process Operator job openings in Baytown, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,049 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

Reactor Operator

Third Coast

Pearland, TX โ€ข On-site

$30/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Position Summary

Under the direction of the Reaction Supervisor, the Reactor Operator’s main task are to:

Job Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
  • Must have thorough understanding of all Reaction and Blending procedures.
  • Monitor operating conditions, report variances from normal conditions and take appropriate actions to maintain optimum process performance.
  • Must be willing and able to work a 12hour rotating shift schedule and work nights, weekends and holidays.
  • Must have complete understanding of the lockout/tagout procedures and the ability to implement LOTO.
  • Conduct all jobrelated tasks in a safe manner; comply with all governmental and corporate regulations (including sitespecific procedures) related to occupational safety, employee health and the environment.
  • Conduct periodic inspection of the facility and report any unsafe condition or condition posing a potential conflict with environmental permits or regulations to local management.
  • Perform plant cleanup standards tasks during and at the end of an operation or work day.
  • Complete all deviation reports, including safety, environmental and work orders.
  • Respond to any direction provided by facility management.
  • Prepare portions of the facility or specific items of equipment for maintenance or repair.
  • Execute all tasks related to startup and shutdown of equipment in assigned areas of responsibility.
  • Controlling, monitoring and adjustment of all control systems and manually operated equipment.
  • Must be able to climb and work at elevated heights.
  • Conduct routine inspections and testing of equipment.
  • Identify and troubleshoot any issues that arise during operation.
  • Implement emergency response procedures if needed as well as participate in emergency response activities.
  • Maintain accurate records of reactor / distillation operation.
  • Ensure compliance with all applicable regulations and guidelines.
  • Communicate effectively with team members and supervisors.
  • Participate in training and development programs to stay current with new technology and procedures.
  • Must be able to load and/or unload any railcar or truck and covert lbs./gallons to determine load capacity.
  • Must be able to follow all procedures when handling “food grade” products.
  • Exhibit and practices the Third Coast Way fundamental behaviors.
  • Knowledge and Skills:
  • High School Graduate or GED desired but not required.
  • Interpersonal communication skills are required to interface with all affected teams, personnel, and vendors.
  • Strong work ethic with demonstrated ability to effectively work with minimum supervision
  • Work Experience:
  • Minimum 2 years of experience as a Process Operator or in process operations within a chemical manufacturing, petrochemical, refinery, terminal, or similar industrial facility required.
  • Skills and Competencies:
  • Have general knowledge of plant safety rules
  • Must have basic computer skills (work/excel)
  • Be ready and willing to receive standard training
  • Must be able to read and interpret an SDS, also know the location of the SDS book
  • Be able to follow the adverse weather condition procedure Hurricane, Freeze and flood procedures if needed.
  • Must be able to read and process an order in an adequate time period
  • Knowledge of our quality policy and objectives
  • Must understand Nitrogen blanketing, purging and drying process.
  • Must understand sampling procedure (railcar, truck and tank)
  • Learn basic product identification
  • Proper hose selection, cleaning and storage
  • Must be able to apply steam to railcars, trucks, tanks and pumps in a safe manner.
  • Must be able to accurately gauge any tank, railcar, or truck, and be able to interpret the automated gauging system.
  • Must be able to use hand tools like pipe wrench, open end wrenches, and pliers.
  • Physical Requirements
  • While performing the duties of this job, the team member is regularly required to use their hands to handle, or feel, reach with hands and arms, talk, and hear.
  • The team member frequently is required to stand, walk, stoop, kneel, and crouch.
  • The team member is occasionally required to sit.
  • The team member must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds, frequently lift 25 pounds and occasionally move or manipulate drums weighing between 200400 pounds.
  • The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by a team member to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Must be able to wear flame-resistant (FRC) clothing and appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) in all weather conditions, including working indoors and outdoors in rain, heat, and cold environments.