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Refinery Process Operator Jobs in Billings, MT (NOW HIRING)

... work in an operating refinery environment. * Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications ... Exposure to process simulation, historian, or data visualization tools such as Aspen HYSYS, Aspen ...

... work in an operating refinery environment. * Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications ... Exposure to process simulation, historian, or data visualization tools such as Aspen HYSYS, Aspen ...

Identify operational deviations from short and long range refinery strategy (i.e. catalyst activity ... Support implementation and sustainment of unit Operating Limits/Envelopes and targets, ensuring ...

Minimum of 5+ years' experience in Refining, Chemicals, Power, Life Sciences, Food & Beverage ... Develop and review operating philosophies, control narratives, and process descriptions supporting ...

Territory Account Manager

Billings, MT · Remote

$100K - $120K/yr

... processes running: oil and gas, refining, power, manufacturing, mining, metals, and more. We are ... while operating with the responsiveness of a local team. We live and work right here in the ...

New

Sr Engineer I, Asset

Billings, MT · On-site

$141K - $172K/yr

... process problems and operational issues, collaborating with operators, maintenance personnel ... products from refineries to storage terminals. We operate 39 terminals that supply finished ...

Sr Engineer I, Asset

Billings, MT · On-site

$141K - $172K/yr

... process problems and operational issues, collaborating with operators, maintenance personnel ... products from refineries to storage terminals. We operate 39 terminals that supply finished ...

Senior Electrical Engineer

Billings, MT · On-site

$105K - $137K/yr

... processes. * Provide engineering input during procurement, construction and commissioning ... Operations in the United States include engineering expertise across refining, sulphur technology ...

Senior Project Manager

Billings, MT · On-site

$150K - $180K/yr

Operating coast to coast, Stratus ® serves clients nationwide while maintaining a strategic ... Has a good working knowledge of all key project processes, including engineering, procurement, and ...

Lead Leak Repair Technician

Billings, MT

$43K - $56K/yr

Safely perform repairs on operating systems while following established procedures and customer ... Experience working in refineries, chemical plants, power generation facilities, pulp and paper ...

Refinery Process Operator information

See Billings, MT salary details

$13

$20

$30

How much do refinery process operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for refinery process operator in Billings, MT is $20.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.98 and $22.74 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 Billings, MT?

For Refinery Process Operator jobs in Billings, MT, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Refinery Process Operator jobs in Billings, MT look for?

The top searched job categories for Refinery Process Operator jobs in Billings, MT are:

Infographic showing various Refinery Process Operator job openings in Billings, MT as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,300 per year, or $20.8 per hour.

Process Engineer - Oil Refinery

CHS, Inc.

Laurel, MT

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


CHS Inc. rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

37th of 365 rated logistics


Job description

CHS Inc. is a leading global agribusiness owned by farmers, ranchers and cooperatives across the United States that provides grain, food and energy resources to businesses and consumers around the world.  We serve agriculture customers and consumers across the United States and around the world.  Most of our employees are in the United States, but today we have employees in 19 countries. At CHS, we are creating connections to empower agriculture.

Summary

CHS, Inc. has an exciting opportunity at our Oil Refinery facility in Laurel, MT. We are looking for an Process Engineer to work with a team to prepare designs, specifications, start-up assistance, and support for refinery. You must be a detail-oriented, results-driven individual with a commitment to quality, accuracy, and the ability to organize and prioritize workloads to meet deadlines. Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with a strong commitment to customer service and the ability to work in both a team environment and in self-directed tasks are necessary.

Responsibilities
  • Support engineering efforts related to facility design, process control strategies, and day-to-day unit operations.
  • Review and maintain Piping & Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs), including field verification and updates.
  • Assist in diagnosing and resolving plant issues using engineering principles and established methodologies. 
  • Develop and implement technical solutions that enhance safety, environmental compliance, reliability, and economic performance. 
  • Prepare and deliver detailed technical reports, including catalyst performance tracking, energy/mass balances, and feed/product specification analyses.
  • Support design evaluations, unit modifications, and resolution of operational constraints using chemical engineering principles.
  • Participate in reviews of process and equipment design packages from internal teams and external engineering firms.
  • Support engineering projects through coordination, planning, and implementation activities.
  • Participate in Management of Change (MOC), Process Hazard Analysis (PHA), and Process Safety Management (PSM) audits; complete assigned safety actions. 
  • Collaborate with catalyst and chemical vendors to monitor performance and recommend optimal solutions for improved profitability and efficiency.
  • Promote a culture of open communication, problem-solving, and technical stewardship across teams. 
  • Monitor equipment performance, conduct failure analyses, and recommend corrective actions.
  • Support compliance with applicable regulatory requirements, industry codes, and Refinery Engineering Practices.
  • Apply industrial safety practices during fieldwork and identify opportunities for process and performance enhancements.
  • Develop cross-disciplinary engineering knowledge and collaborate effectively across refinery functions. 
  • Specify and troubleshoot instrumentation systems, including transmitters, analyzers, control valves, and on/off valves.
  • Support refinery turnaround planning and execution, including major maintenance events. 
  • Perform additional duties as assigned to support refinery operations and strategic initiatives.
Minimum Qualifications (required)
  • Bachelor's degree in chemical engineering or a closely related engineering discipline. 
  • 2+ years of experience in process engineering, refinery operations, chemical manufacturing, or related engineering work; relevant internship or co-op experience may be considered.
Additional Qualifications
  • Ability to apply engineering fundamentals, perform calculations and data analysis, and support troubleshooting of assigned process issues.
  • Able to work independently on assigned tasks while seeking guidance when needed. 
  • Strong communication, organization, and teamwork skills, with the ability to support field work in an operating refinery environment. 
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, especially Excel, Word, Outlook, and data analysis tools. 
  • Familiarity with refinery unit operations, thermodynamics, heat and material balances, process safety, and process control concepts.
  • Working knowledge of Management of Change (MOC), Process Hazard Analysis (PHA), Process Safety Management (PSM), and refinery safety practices. 
  • Exposure to process simulation, historian, or data visualization tools such as Aspen HYSYS, Aspen Plus, PI, IP.21, or similar applications.
  • Familiarity with P&IDs, process equipment, instrumentation, engineering standards, specifications, industry codes, and refinery engineering practices.

Pre-employment screening is based on the job requirements and industry guidelines and may or may not be required for the position. If required, selected candidates must pass pre-employment screenings to include all or a combination of drug, criminal, motor vehicle check, physical requirements and FMCSA Clearinghouse. 

Physical Requirements
  • Must be able to wear personal protective equipment, including respirators.
  • Must have ability to climb stairs and ladders to access equipment at heights. 

CHS offers a competitive total rewards package. Compensation includes base wage and, depending upon position, may include other earnings such as bonus, incentives and commissions. Actual pay offered will vary based on multiple factors which may include, without limitation, experience, education, training, specialized skills and certifications, minimum wage/salary requirements under local law.

Benefits include medical, dental, vision, wellness programs, life insurance, health and dependent care spending accounts, paid time off, 401(k), pension, profit sharing, short- and long-term disability, tuition reimbursement and adoption assistance, subject to the eligibility requirements for each benefit plan.

CHS is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disability.       

Please note that any communication from a CHS recruiter would be sent using a chsinc.com email address. In addition, a CHS recruiter will not ask for confidential information over the phone or in an email, or request money from a candidate involved in an offer process. If you have questions regarding an employment opportunity, please reach out to chscareers@chsinc.com; to verify that the communication is from CHS.


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