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Refinery Process Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Primient

Process Operator, Decatur, IL

Decatur, IL

$25.05/hr

The operator position could be in any of our 5 different processing units, Wet Mill, Refinery, Dextrose, Starch, or Utilities. These are all manufacturing facilities focusing on different products ...

Anvil Corporation

Process Engineer

Lakewood, CO · On-site

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES Work directly with clients and front-line operations staff at operating ... refinery process operations, troubleshooting, and small project execution Must have a general ...

Anvil Corporation

Process Engineer

Caspar, CA · On-site

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES Work directly with clients and front-line operations staff at operating ... refinery process operations, troubleshooting, and small project execution Must have a general ...

Perdue Farms

Oil Refinery Operator

Bowersville, GA

As an Oil Refinery Operator, you will operate and monitor refining, bleaching, deodorization, and hydrogenation processes while supporting safe and efficient production operations. You will handle ...

Perdue Farms

Oil Refinery Operator

Bowersville, GA · On-site

As an Oil Refinery Operator, you will operate and monitor refining, bleaching, deodorization, and hydrogenation processes while supporting safe and efficient production operations. You will handle ...

Perdue Farms

Oil Refinery Operator

Salisbury, MD · On-site

$21 - $31.50/hr

As an Oil Refinery Operator, you will operate and monitor refining, bleaching, deodorization, and hydrogenation processes while supporting safe and efficient production operations. You will handle ...

Perdue Farms

Oil Refinery Operator

Salisbury, MD · On-site

$21 - $31.50/hr

As an Oil Refinery Operator, you will operate and monitor refining, bleaching, deodorization, and hydrogenation processes while supporting safe and efficient production operations. You will handle ...

Perdue Farms

Oil Refinery Operator

Salisbury, MD

$21 - $31.50/hr

As an Oil Refinery Operator, you will operate and monitor refining, bleaching, deodorization, and hydrogenation processes while supporting safe and efficient production operations. You will handle ...

Anvil Corporation

Sr. Process Engineer

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$106K - $137K/yr

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES Work directly with clients and front-line operations staff at operating ... refinery process operations, troubleshooting, and small project execution Must have a general ...

Clean Harbors

Operations Manager II - Refinery

Dover, NH · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Responsible for overseeing the operations of used oil re-refining process including associated tank ... Ensures process operation within safe operating limits, compliance with all regulatory, permit and ...

AAK

REFINERY OPERATOR IA

Louisville, KY · On-site

The Operator controls the flow rate and process of coloring the oil specific to each order as well as manually switching the motors and bleaching tanks over as needed. The Refinery Operator IA takes ...

Anvil Corporation

Lead Process Engineer

Bellingham, WA · On-site

$107K - $139K/yr

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES Work directly with clients and front-line operations staff at operating ... our refinery business Assist in developing process engineering scope of work and project design ...

AarhusKarlshamn

REFINERY OPERATOR IA

Louisville, KY · On-site

The Operator controls the flow rate and process of coloring the oil specific to each order as well as manually switching the motors and bleaching tanks over as needed. The Refinery Operator IA takes ...

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Refinery Process Operator information

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$14

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$31

How much do refinery process operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 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 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.
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What are popular job titles related to Refinery Process Operator jobs?

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

Refinery Process Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Refinery Process Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,984 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Process Operator, Decatur, IL

Decatur, IL

Primient
Food Services and Drinking Places • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Primientexternal

$25.05/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

About Primient
Primient is a century old company with an entrepreneurial spirit. We are a leading producer of food and industrial ingredients made from plant-based, renewable sources. We deliver value through deep technical, commercial, and operational excellence that is backed by our long-standing corn wet milling heritage. Wherever we are in the process, from field to customer, our priorities are focused on ensuring we produce the safest, highest quality products through practices that uphold both our responsibility and commitments to the challenge and drive for excellence, our people and our planet. We are a privately held company with locations across the US, Mexico, Poland, and Brazil. We’re investing in our plants and people to unlock our potential in the industrial and food sectors. Guided by our values of Safety, Excellence, Integrity, and Growth, we’re focused on growing our business, our reputation, and the career of every teammate.
About the Role

Manufacturing careers that offer more: As a Primient Process Operator you will be a vital part of the team owning your part of the process. We have many different types of operator roles. For some jobs you will monitor equipment performance, perform preventative maintenance, run laboratory samples, and make adjustments to keep operations running safely and within specification. You’ll also troubleshoot issues as they arise and work closely with your team, engineers, and management to ensure we deliver a high-quality product to our customers.   Some jobs are more physically demanding like running packaging equipment or loading railcars and bulk trucks and some of our rover positions.

Successful candidates must pass a computer test, drug screen, and background check along with completing a 120-day probation period.

Process Operator – the need to know

  • You will help to ensure the safe operation of our process through a highly automated, state-of-the-art system.

  • We put a strong focus on safety – it is always front of mind.

  • Your role may involve being on your feet much of the shift, climbing stairs and ladders, lifting and carrying up to 60lbs and working indoors or outdoors in hot and cold temperatures.  

Skill blocks: the more you learn, the more you earn: At Primient we pay you to upskill through a system of learning and development called “skill blocks”. Gaining new skills blocks leads to pay enhancements and helps you to advance on our structured Operator Career Path.

About You

  • Minimum of a High School diploma or equivalent

  • Basic math, reading, and problem-solving skills

  • Passionate about safety not only for yourself, but for your co-workers as well; along with Food Safety as our products go into many different consumer items.

Total Rewards

Starting pay of $25.05/hr + $.50 shift differential and overtime

We offer a comprehensive Total Rewards package that our U.S. colleagues and their families can count on, which includes:

  • Competitive Pay
  • Multiple Healthcare plan choices
  • Dental and vision insurance
  • A 401(k) plan with company and matching contributions
  • Short- and Long-Term Disability
  • Life, AD&D, and Voluntary Insurance plans
  • Paid holidays & vacation
  • Floating days off
  • Parental leave for new parents
  • Employee resource groups
  • Learning & development programs
  • Fun culture where you have an opportunity in shaping our future

What we offer you:

  • Starting pay of $25.05/hr + $.50 shift differential with opportunity to advance to $40.15 with our pay for skill system.
  • Clearly defined career progression with greater responsibilities
  • Benefits from Day 1

Location/Environment

We are in Decatur, IL. The operator position could be in any of our 5 different processing units, Wet Mill, Refinery, Dextrose, Starch, or Utilities. These are all manufacturing facilities focusing on different products, but similar environments. Working both inside and out. Potential exposure to noise, dust, chemicals, hot liquids, and extreme temperatures.


Career Path & Culture
Primient is committed to a workplace that is all in – ensuring everyone has the opportunity to develop and shape a career that matters in an open culture which embraces equity, diversity and belonging. We challenge old ways of thinking; and encourage employee voices to be a guiding force for ongoing learning.
Primient supports a culture of inclusion that respects individual strengths, views, and experiences. We believe our differences make better decisions, drive excellence, and deliver better business results. Primient employees experience autonomy and accountability in their role. Here, employees control their destiny as there is opportunity for career growth and pathways outside the norm.
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging
We are believers in the power of difference. We strive to represent the communities in which we operate and to provide an inclusive, welcoming environment for all. We want Primient to be a place where every employee feels they belong and knows they are seen, heard, valued and safe to speak up. Our aspiration is to unlock the full potential in diverse perspectives, while offering everyone an equal chance to grow,
Primient is an equal opportunity employer, committed to the strength of an inclusive workforce.
California Consumer Privacy Act ("CCPA")
The Company is committed to complying with the California Consumer Privacy Act (“CCPA”) and all data privacy and laws in the jurisdictions in which it recruits and hires employees. We collect the following categories of personal information for the purpose of hiring the best qualified applicants and to comply with applicable employment laws: Name and contact information; Job preference and work availability; Social Security Number and/or other identification information; Education and qualifications; Employment history and experience; Military service; Reference and background check information, including relevant criminal history and credit history; Social media information; Pre-employment test results; Post-offer medical examination information and results, including drug test results; Voluntary self-disclosure information regarding minority, veteran, and disability status; and Information provided by you during the hiring process.

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