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Refinery Process Operator Jobs in Pasadena, 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 ...

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Refinery Process Operator information

See Pasadena, TX salary details

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How much do refinery process operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for refinery process operator in Pasadena, TX is $19.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.68 and $21.11 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 Pasadena, TX?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Refinery Process Operator job openings in Pasadena, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,189 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

Resid Fluid Catalytic Cracker (RFCC) Process Specialist or Engineer

Kizer Energy, Inc.

Houston, TX โ€ข On-site

Temporary

Medical

Re-posted 3 hours ago


Job description

Kizer Energy is seeking a highly skilled professional with extensive experience in refining processes, specifically in Residue FCC Units (RFCC), to join a team of experts that will be supporting the completion of Performance Test Runs (PTR) and the Creditor Reliability Test (CRT) on an Integrated Full Conversion Refinery, Steam Cracker, and Petrochemical facility. The Process Specialist will support ongoing Process Issues at RFCC units with Incident investigation, Troubleshooting, Optimization, and Procedure Review to ensure safe and reliable operation and improve the base layer control uptime.

The RFCC Process's Key Responsibilities and Duties are:

  • Assist with the resolution of gaps identified by recent external Readiness Reviews
  • Review overall critical parameters (in the process units, critical equipment) to identify gaps and corrective/mitigation action.
  • Assess the adequacy and robustness of the instrument-electrical interface.
  • Lead and drive the completion of the high-risk CRT major threats and vulnerabilities.
  • Review operating practices and incorporate best practices and lessons learned for improvement.
  • Analyze past and potential process upsets (which could defer CRT) and evaluate the availability of existing safeguards and mitigation strategies.
  • Review the operating procedures to check comprehensiveness and coverage, identify issues, and propose improvements.
  • Develop improvement projects to address gaps in meeting CRT requirements.

There will be specialists from other disciplines in the team of experts such as Engineering (Mechanical, Instrument, Electrical, Asset Integrity), Process (ARDS, Steam Cracker, Butadiene, Polymer, EOEG), and Process Controls, Operations, Maintenance, and Procurement Support.

The RFCC Process Specialist and the rest of the Specialist will report to the Team Leader, who will liaise with the Client Management.

Requirements:

  • Fifteen (20) to Thirty (30) years of proven experience in the respective position with a strong background in the related plants.
  • Experience working on international projects.
  • Experience in advisory roles.
  • Exceptional verbal and written communication skills are essential, as you will work closely with the consulting team and interact with client technical representatives.
  • Proficient in English
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering or specialist in the related field.
  • Location: South-East Asia / Johor Bahur
  • Employment Type: Contract/Project Work
  • Salary: Negotiable

Please click on the link below to apply directly for the Job opportunity

https://www.careers-page.com/kizer-energy/job/LRR8359X