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Refinery Process Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hunt

Process Operator Trainee

Atmore, AL

$12.75 - $16/hr

Maintain process operating parameters within specified safe and allowable ranges * Recognize ... Minimum of one year's experience in a refinery environment or related industry * Strong knowledge ...

Hunt

Process Operator Trainee

Atmore, AL · On-site

$12.75 - $16/hr

Maintain process operating parameters within specified safe and allowable ranges * Recognize ... Minimum of one year's experience in a refinery environment or related industry * Strong knowledge ...

Cargill

Process Operator

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$18.75 - $23.50/hr

Executing processes and operating all equipment of a designated area; departments may include preparation, refinery, extraction, steam generation, biodiesel, and grain drying * Monitoring equipment ...

Cargill

Process Operator

Fayetteville, NC

$28.77 - $29.71/hr

Executing processes and operating all equipment of a designated area; departments may include preparation, refinery, extraction, steam generation, biodiesel, and grain drying * Monitoring equipment ...

Cargill

Process Operator

Fayetteville, NC · On-site

$28.77 - $29.71/hr

Executing processes and operating all equipment of a designated area; departments may include preparation, refinery, extraction, steam generation, biodiesel, and grain drying * Monitoring equipment ...

Cargill

Process Operator

Fayetteville, NC

$28.77 - $29.71/hr

Executing processes and operating all equipment of a designated area; departments may include preparation, refinery, extraction, steam generation, biodiesel, and grain drying * Monitoring equipment ...

CGB Enterprises

Process Operator

Casselton, ND

$18.50 - $23.50/hr

This job is primarily responsible for the safe operation of refinery equipment, controlling ... operators, maintenance personnel, and supervisors. * Monitor process indicators, instruments ...

CGB Enterprises, Inc.

Process Operator

Casselton, ND · On-site

$18.50 - $23.50/hr

This job is primarily responsible for the safe operation of refinery equipment, controlling ... operators, maintenance personnel, and supervisors. * Monitor process indicators, instruments ...

MP Materials Corp.

Process Operator

Mountain Pass, CA · On-site

$28.21 - $37.90/hr

S. company with a fully integrated rare earth supply chain--from mining and refining to advanced ... A Process Operator controls equipment and systems that ensure the smooth, safe, and productive ...

Golden Queen Mining Company LLC

Process Operator

Mojave, CA · On-site

$24.19 - $49.41/hr

As a Process Operator, you would report to the Merrill-Crowe Process Supervisor. This is a safety ... the refinery. * Monitor and balance solution flows from the heap leach pad to the pump box and ...

Calumet, Inc.

Process Coordinator

Shreveport, LA

... overall refinery performance including rounds, PM execution, process troubleshooting, etc. The Process Coordinator reports to the Operations Superintendent. DESCRIPTION: Assure operator and ...

Hunt Consolidated

Process Operator Trainee

Atmore, AL

$12.75 - $16/hr

Maintain process operating parameters within specified safe and allowable ranges * Recognize ... Minimum of one year's experience in a refinery environment or related industry * Strong knowledge ...

calumet

Process Coordinator

Shreveport, LA

... overall refinery performance including rounds, PM execution, process troubleshooting, etc. The Process Coordinator reports to the Operations Superintendent. DESCRIPTION: * Assure operator and ...

Clean Harbors

Solvent Process Operator I

Hebron, OH · On-site

$17.50 - $22/hr

... Process Operators to their team! These team members will need to be willing to learn to complete ... We collect over 200 million gallons of used motor oil each year and we have the largest re-refinery ...

Clean Harbors

Solvent Process Operator I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$15.87 - $31.73/hr

Ensure that the processing unit is operating according to the issued guidelines and process ... We collect over 200 million gallons of used motor oil each year and we have the largest re-refinery ...

Clean Harbors

Solvent Process Operator I

Hebron, OH

$17.50 - $22/hr

... Process Operators to their team! These team members will need to be willing to learn to complete ... We collect over 200 million gallons of used motor oil each year and we have the largest re-refinery ...

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How much do refinery process operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for refinery process operator in the United States is $21.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

More about Refinery Process Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Refinery Process Operator jobs? Cities with the most Refinery Process Operator job openings:
What states have the most Refinery Process Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Refinery Process Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Refinery Process Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Refinery Process Operator jobs are:
Refinery Process Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Refinery Process Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 37% Full Time, and 63% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $43,984 per year, or $21.1 per hour.
Lead Operator - Oil Refinery

Lead Operator - Oil Refinery

Clean Harbors

Rollinsford, NH • On-site

$35 - $38/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

Clean Harbors rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 141 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

35th of 70 rated recycling and waste

Job description

We are seeking a Lead Operator Oil Recycling for our Rollinsford NH Oil Re-Refinery; distilling used motor oil into separate streams of product- light distillate fuels, water, VGO, and asphalt.  You will perform a range of essential functions to ensure the efficient and safe operation of the refinery including Leadership/Oversight, Inspections, Troubleshooting, Control Board functions, Process Optimization, Safety and Compliance, and Quality Control. 
Wage: $35-38hr DOE.
***GENEROUS SIGN ON BONUS if start by 6/8/26 or 6/15/26***
Why work for Clean Harbors?
  • Health and Safety is our #1 priority, and we live it 3-6-5!
  • Competitive pay and benefits.
  • Comprehensive health benefits coverage after 30 days.
  • 401(K) with Company matching component.
  • Opportunities for growth and development for all the stages of your career.
  • Generous paid time off, company paid training and tuition reimbursement.
  • Positive and safe work environments.
Responsibilities:
  • ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Safety is always a number one priority.
  • Monitor and control all re-refinery process units via DCS (Distributed Control System) or equivalent.
  • Continuously observe process variables (temperature, pressure, flow rates, levels, and product quality indicators) and make real-time adjustments to maintain targets and optimize yield.
  • Respond to process alarms, abnormal operating conditions, and equipment faults; initiate corrective actions or escalate to supervision and maintenance as appropriate.
  • Execute and coordinate unit startups, planned shutdowns, and emergency shutdowns in strict accordance with standard operating procedures (SOPs).
  • Maintain accurate shift logs, production records, feed receipts, product rundowns, and laboratory sample tracking.
  • Monitor feedstock (used oil) receipts, tank inventories, and product storage levels; coordinate transfers and blending as directed.
  • Ensure flare management, emissions monitoring, and waste stream handling meet permit requirements during all operational modes.
What does it take to work at Clean Harbors?
  • HS Diploma or GED.
  • 6+ month lead experience preferred.
  • 3+ years working in a heavy industrial plant preferred.
  • Monitoring tanks experience preferred.
  • Provide clear direction, task assignments, and operational guidance to field operators throughout the shift.
  • Be able to lift up to 50lbs, sit or stand for long periods.
 
Clean Harbors is an equal opportunity employer.
Clean Harbors is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact ect@cleanharbors.com or 1-844-922-5547.
Clean Harbors is a Military & Veteran friendly company.
Please be advised that Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used to support certain stages of the recruitment process but are not used as a replacement for human decision making.
Clean Harbors is committed to complying with applicable pay transparency laws and ensuring fair and equitable compensation. The posted salary range reflects the minimum and maximum target for this role. Final compensation may vary based on factors such as location, experience, skills, and business needs. In addition to the base salary, some roles may be eligible for bonus or incentive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package.
*CH 
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About Clean Harbors

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Clean Harbors is North America’s leading provider of environmental and industrial services. The Company serves a diverse customer base, including a majority of Fortune 500 companies. Its customer base spans a number of industries, including chemical, and manufacturing, as well as numerous government agencies. These customers rely on Clean Harbors to deliver a broad range of services such as end-to-end hazardous waste management, emergency spill response, industrial cleaning and maintenance, and recycling services. Through its Safety-Kleen subsidiary, Clean Harbors also is North America’s largest re-refiner and recycler of used oil and a leading provider of parts washers and environmental services to commercial, industrial and automotive customers. Founded in 1980 and based in Massachusetts, Clean Harbors operates throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico.

Industry

Environmental consulting services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Norwell, MA, US

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