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Refinery Process Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Process Engineer - Refinery (Contract) | Big Spring, TXOverview We are seeking experienced Process Engineers to support refinery operations in Big Spring, TX. This role will focus on refinery process ...

Candidate must have experience working with process water treatment in refineries, chemical plants or power plants. * High Purity water treatment and process design knowledge is a plus! * Advanced ...

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Refinery Process information

What is a refinery process operator?

Refinery process operators are professionals responsible for controlling and monitoring the equipment and systems that convert raw crude oil into usable products like gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel. They manage the flow of materials, adjust temperatures and pressures, and ensure that operations run safely and efficiently. Operators also troubleshoot issues, perform routine maintenance, and follow strict safety protocols to prevent accidents and environmental hazards. Their work is critical to the smooth functioning of oil refineries and the production of energy products.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in refinery process roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in refinery process roles often encounter challenges such as maintaining operational safety, troubleshooting complex equipment, and adapting to evolving environmental regulations. Managing process upsets while minimizing downtime requires strong analytical skills and close attention to detail. Effective communication and collaboration with maintenance, engineering, and safety teams are essential to quickly resolve issues and implement process improvements. Ongoing training and staying updated on best practices can help overcome these challenges and ensure safe, efficient refinery operations.

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 aptitude, and a relevant technical diploma or certificate. Familiarity with distributed control systems (DCS), safety protocols, and process monitoring tools is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help operators manage complex operations and respond to issues quickly. These abilities are crucial for ensuring safety, maintaining efficiency, and minimizing downtime in refinery operations.

What is the difference between Refinery Process vs Refinery Operator?

AspectRefinery ProcessRefinery Operator
CredentialsTechnical certifications, associate degrees in chemical or process engineeringOn-the-job training, technical certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentDesign, planning, and supervision of refining operationsHands-on operation of equipment in refinery plants
Industry UsageInvolved in process design, optimization, and troubleshootingFocuses on operating and monitoring refinery machinery

Refinery Process roles typically involve designing and optimizing refining procedures, requiring technical knowledge and planning skills. Refinery Operators focus on the day-to-day operation and monitoring of equipment. Both roles are essential in the refining industry but differ in responsibilities and skill requirements.

What cities in Texas are hiring for Refinery Process jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Refinery Process job openings:
Infographic showing various Refinery Process job openings in Texas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Contractor

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Process Engineer - Refinery (Contract) | Big Spring, TXOverview
We are seeking experienced Process Engineers to support refinery operations in Big Spring, TX. This role will focus on refinery process optimization, operational troubleshooting, unit performance improvement, and day-to-day engineering support across key refinery units and utility systems.
The ideal candidate will bring strong refinery operations experience, a solid understanding of refinery process systems, and the ability to work closely with operations, maintenance, and technical teams to improve safety, reliability, and production performance.
Key Responsibilities
  • Provide day-to-day process engineering support for refinery units to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient operations.
  • Monitor unit performance, analyze operating data, and identify opportunities for process optimization and improved throughput.
  • Troubleshoot operational issues, process upsets, and equipment performance concerns to minimize downtime and improve unit reliability.
  • Partner closely with operations, maintenance, reliability, and process control teams to resolve plant issues and implement corrective actions.
  • Support refinery process improvement initiatives, debottlenecking efforts, and operational optimization projects.
  • Conduct root cause analysis for recurring operational and process-related issues.
  • Review and update operating procedures, process documentation, and engineering recommendations.
  • Support field activities including unit walkdowns, equipment reviews, instrumentation verification, and startup/shutdown support.
  • Assist with Management of Change (MOC), process safety initiatives, and refinery compliance activities.
  • Participate in refinery performance reviews, operational meetings, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Preferred Unit Experience
Candidates should have experience supporting one or more of the following refinery process units or utility systems:
  • Hydrotreating
  • Reforming
  • Distillation
  • Utilities systems
  • Boilers
  • Boiler Feed Water (BFW) systems
  • Wastewater treatment
  • Sulfur recovery or treating systems
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering preferred.
  • 5+ years of refinery process engineering experience preferred.
  • Strong understanding of refinery operations, process engineering fundamentals, and unit optimization.
  • Experience troubleshooting refinery process and operational issues in a live plant environment.
  • Familiarity with refinery process data analysis, process monitoring, and operational improvement initiatives.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
  • Ability to work collaboratively in both field and office/control room environments.
  • Experience supporting process safety, MOC, and refinery operational excellence initiatives is a plus.
Work Environment & Schedule
  • Onsite role based in Big Spring, TX.
  • Combination of office, control room, and field-based refinery activities.
  • Standard refinery work schedule with flexibility based on operational and turnaround needs.

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Education:Employment Type: CONTRACTOR