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Refinery Process information

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$71.5K

$137.4K

$233K

How much do refinery process jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for refinery process in the United States is $137,385.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $101,500.00 and $147,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are refinery process operators?

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, and why are they important?

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 does a process operator do in a refinery?

A process operator in a refinery monitors and controls the equipment and processes involved in refining crude oil into products like gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel. They interpret data from control systems, perform routine inspections, and respond to operational issues to ensure safety and efficiency. The role often requires technical training, adherence to safety protocols, and the use of control room systems and instrumentation.

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.

How hard is it to get a job at a refinery?

Securing a refinery process job typically requires relevant technical skills, such as knowledge of chemical or mechanical processes, and often involves completing certifications like OSHA or process safety management. Entry-level positions may be accessible with a high school diploma or technical training, but more advanced roles usually demand experience and specialized education, making competition moderate to high depending on the position and location.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

In the refinery process industry, senior roles such as refinery managers, plant directors, and chief engineers can reach or exceed a $500,000 annual salary, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, and performance bonuses. These positions often require advanced technical knowledge, leadership abilities, and industry certifications, and may involve working in high-pressure environments with long hours.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Refinery process jobs typically do not pay $4,000 a week without specialized skills or experience; however, roles such as experienced plant operators or supervisors in the oil and gas industry can reach that level with on-the-job training and certifications. High-paying positions often require technical knowledge, safety training, and relevant experience rather than formal degrees.
More about Refinery Process jobs
What cities are hiring for Refinery Process jobs? Cities with the most Refinery Process job openings:
What states have the most Refinery Process jobs? States with the most job openings for Refinery Process jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Refinery Process jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Refinery Process jobs are:
Refinery Process jobs near you
Infographic showing various Refinery Process job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $137,385 per year, or $66.1 per hour.
Process Engineer Supervisor

Process Engineer Supervisor

Cvr Energy, Inc.

Wynnewood, OK • On-site

Other

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY

Responsible for supervising activities related to process engineering support of the various refining units and utilities. Accountabilities include but are not limited to supervising process activities over some of the refinery operations; overseeing a portion of the department providing operations support, process optimization, and reliability improvement; providing direction for the process engineers; interacting at the planning level with the other refinery groups; and help set project priorities. In addition to the direct reports in the group, the Supervisor also oversees the contracting of selected outside engineering services, helps select the purchase and application of engineering tools, and oversees the specification and bid selection of key equipment.

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

  • Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering required

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

  • 6+ years of combined refinery process engineering and refinery operations experience including a range of process unit technologies required
  • 2+ years of direct supervisory experience preferred
  • Experience in process engineering unit operations, troubleshooting and design, process safety and risk mitigation
  • Knowledge of the PSI, MOC and PSSR processes
  • Knowledge of Refining Process Technology, utilities and best practices
  • Leadership, people management, performance management, teamwork, decision making and communication skills desired
  • Strong analytical skills with the capability to solve high complex problems
  • Demonstrated competencies of priority setting and organizational agility
  • Demonstrated knowledge of process simulation software
  • Intermediate skills in MS Office suite required
  • Ability to handle confidential materials and maintain confidentiality
  • Adherence to all company policies and procedures
  • Fluent in English, oral and written required
  • Ability to adjust schedule to meet business needs

MAJOR ACCOUNTABILITIES

  • Responsible for process support for assigned areas which will represent a portion of the refinery operating areas
  • Input into the hiring and evaluation of the Process Engineers and Process Techs. Manage and mentor the individual engineer and tech development with formal training, work assignments, coaching, vendor supplied training, and periodic reviews
  • Help prioritize the projects and activities and coordinate with the overall refinery needs. Help with debottlenecking, optimization and reliability project development for the Refinery Units and utilities area. Also contribute to the refinery budgeting process
  • Provide the coordination of group interaction with other Refinery groups. This includes the identification of key compliance requirements, best operating practices and product specifications
  • Provide coordination of group interaction with outside vendors, contract process engineering services, and industry groups
  • Manage the group development of projects, individual equipment specifications, and provide recommendations on catalyst selection, technology and bid selection
  • Contribute to the acquisition and training for Process Engineering tools for the group and other users in the refinery
  • Coordinate the support of project work by the Process Group including insuring that drawing reviews and specific MOCs are properly reviewed on a timely basis. Coordinate participation of Process Engineers for equipment inspections, process safety reviews and process hazard analysis
  • Develop the best practices for process design applications and process modeling templates
  • Provide support for refinery turnarounds, including any required contract process engineering, needed to provide 24 hr. coverage and support for individual process callout requirements
  • Guide direct reports in development of Key Process Indicators and other process monitoring tools needed for proper monitoring and evaluation of the plant operations
  • Communicate and share process information with sister refinery sites
  • Exposure to work near potentially volatile and combustible materials and chemicals

EXPECTED RESULTS

  • Measurable, efficient and effective workflow for the Department
  • Timely communication and to the appropriate staff of process issues which could impact on the day-to-day operations of the Refinery
  • Ongoing customer satisfaction from other facility managers and employees
  • Provide process reporting to the plant including monthly key process indicators and unit weight balances
  • "Owner" representation in projects - contribute to the development of scope for capital projects, review and approval during project execution, training and start up assistance for those projects
  • Leadership role in developing and implementing Plant initiatives such as the MOC program, improved unit controls systems and PHA evaluations
  • Embrace positive change, promote safety, drive inclusive behaviors, and support sustainable reliability
  • Adherence to all company policies and procedures

Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States. The Company will not sponsor immigration or work visas.

CVR Energy is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We encourage qualified minority, female, veteran, and disabled candidates to apply.

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