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Refining Engineer Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Electrical Engineer II

Deer Park, TX · On-site

$120 - $160/hr

Provide day-to-day electrical equipment technical support to Client Refinery Engineering Major Projects * Identify/specify appropriate codes, standards and specifications * Identify/specify quality ...

As a Sr. Environmental Engineer, you will ensure the Refinery complies with the EPA, TCEQ, and other agency environmental rules and regulations. At Valero, we are committed to advancing the future of ...

Maintain detailed records, refine engineering protocols, and contribute to continuous improvement. Field & Customer Support: Assist in installation-related engineering reviews, providing technical ...

DevOps Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$50.25 - $69/hr

You'll play a key role in implementing and refining DevOps practices, from pipeline scripting to containerization, ensuring our environments are secure, efficient, and highly available. Key ...

Showing results 21-40

Refining Engineer information

See Texas salary details

$24.6K

$83.1K

$150.4K

How much do refining engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for refining engineer in Texas is $83,125.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,007.00 and $105,971.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a refining engineer?

Refining Engineers are professionals who design, operate, and optimize processes within oil refineries and petrochemical plants. They are responsible for ensuring that crude oil is efficiently converted into useful products like gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel while meeting safety and environmental standards. Their work involves troubleshooting equipment, improving process efficiency, and implementing new technologies to enhance production. Refining Engineers often collaborate with other technical teams to solve complex engineering problems and ensure the continuous, safe operation of refinery units.

What are some typical challenges a refining engineer faces when optimizing refinery processes?

Refining Engineers often encounter challenges balancing process efficiency with safety and regulatory compliance. They must troubleshoot complex equipment or process issues, adapt to fluctuating feedstock qualities, and implement technology upgrades while minimizing downtime. Collaboration with operations, maintenance, and environmental teams is crucial to address these challenges and ensure that refinery output meets both quality standards and production targets. Staying updated on industry best practices and technological advancements also helps in overcoming these hurdles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a refining engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Refining Engineer, you need a strong background in chemical engineering, process optimization, and safety standards, usually supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with process simulation software (e.g., Aspen HYSYS), control systems, and certifications like FE or PE are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills help you excel in diagnosing and improving refinery operations. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring efficient, safe, and environmentally responsible refining processes.

What is the difference between Refining Engineer vs Process Engineer?

AspectRefining EngineerProcess Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Chemical, Petroleum, or Mechanical Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferredBachelor's in Chemical, Mechanical, or Industrial Engineering; certifications like Six Sigma are common
Work EnvironmentOil refineries, petrochemical plants, energy sectorsManufacturing plants, chemical processing facilities, industrial settings
Industry UsagePrimarily in oil and gas refining industryBroader across manufacturing and chemical industries

Refining Engineers focus specifically on oil and gas refining processes, optimizing operations and safety. Process Engineers have a broader role across various manufacturing sectors, designing and improving production processes. While both roles require similar technical credentials and work in industrial environments, Refining Engineers specialize in the petroleum industry, whereas Process Engineers work across multiple industries.

How to become a refining engineer?

To become a refining engineer, typically a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering, petroleum engineering, or a related field is required. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions in refineries, developing skills in process simulation and safety protocols, and obtaining professional certifications can enhance career prospects in this field.

What cities in Texas are hiring for Refining Engineer jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most Refining Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Refining Engineer job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,125 per year, or $40 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

What You'll Be Doing

Job Scope: We are seeking an experienced Project Manager with a strong background in refining projects and oil & gas sector to join our team. This is a role focused on business development with project execution-building client relationships while delivering high-quality engineering and project management services.

Primary responsibilities will include but not be limited to:

  • Efficiently manage promotional projects minimizing the cost to Hargrove by working with the Engineering Resource Leaders to accurately estimate Professional Services man hours to complete the project while achieving the objectives.

  • Successfully managing commercial contract(s) on one or more projects of various sizes, as required. Ensure that invoices are paid in a timely manner, Project Change Notices are processed, monthly Office Earnings Report (OER) is reviewed in the time allotted, and the project(s) plan is current.

  • Maintaining control of the project by tracking and maintaining discipline performance budget progress, schedule commitments, and quality standards. Understanding and utilizing the project tools that are available for project control.

  • Participating in development of all major technical, cost, scheduling and performance decisions on assigned projects.

  • Familiarity with project scope, specifications, deliverables required by client, and design criteria upon assignment to a project and gaining Hargrove team alignment of schedule and budget in regard to deliverables required. Work with client team to define project scope, goals and deliverables that support business goals in collaboration with stakeholders.

  • Recognizing and communicating scope and design changes promptly by championing the Project Change Notice process and promoting a positive Change Management culture.

  • Leading the effort in building a productive Team both within Hargrove and with the client.

  • Coordinating resource requirements with other ongoing project work and insure all parties' expectations are aligned.

  • Communicating the plan to your team, the project leadership team and the client. Aligning the expectations of all parties. Conduct weekly coordination meetings with the Team.

  • Maintaining timely and accurate reporting including weekly and monthly reports utilizing a comprehensive action item list.

  • Reviewing engineering documents, vendor submittals, fabrication drawings and other construction submittals for compliance with engineering drawings, specifications, good engineering practice, and project objectives.

  • Ensuring that standard project work processes are followed by all team members through all phases of engineering, procurement, and construction.

  • Interviewing discipline leads to maintain up-to-date progress against man hour expended analysis.

  • Assessing the performance of the project team members through the course of the project, and work with resource leadership to organize a qualified and motivated project team.

  • Ensuring project documentation is properly reviewed and approved by the client.

  • Identify and pursue new opportunities within the refining and oil & gas sectors.

  • Develop and maintain strong client relationships to drive repeat business.

  • Prepare proposals, estimates, and presentations for prospective clients.

  • Lead and manage refining projects from concept through completion (FEED, detailed design, construction).

  • Oversee scope, schedule, budget, and quality to ensure successful delivery.

  • Coordinate multidisciplinary teams and subcontractors.

  • Ensure compliance with safety and industry standards (API, OSHA).

  • Act as the primary point of contact for clients throughout the project lifecycle.

  • Provide strategic guidance and technical expertise to meet client objectives.

Ideal Background

Education: Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical or Civil Engineering or related field is preferred.

Certification: Professional Engineering and/or Project Management Professional (PMP) registration is highly preferred.

Experience: Requires 10 years of project management experience in refining and oil & gas industries.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Knowledge of project execution procedures.

  • Proven track record in business development and client relationship management.

  • Knowledge and application of company engineering standards and project controls tools.

  • Strong knowledge of EPC projects, FEED, and turnarounds.

  • Demonstrated proficiency in complex project management.

  • Ability to lead a team to deliver on commitments.

  • A comprehensive understanding of the function of all engineering disciplines, procurement, and construction processes.

  • Ability to manage client relationships in complex situations.

  • Ability to relate easily to others in the business community such as customers, suppliers, contractors, government, professional and trade associations.

  • Ability to handle stress with poise.

  • Understanding of existing and potential customer needs and preferences.

  • Ability to delegate authority appropriately.

  • Ability to set priorities.

  • Coaching and mentoring skills and experience.

  • Excellent listening and communication skills, both verbal and written.

  • Excellent presentation skills.

  • Excellent leadership and organizational skills.

  • Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office.

Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to sit, stand, or walk for long periods of time.

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Hargrove Culture

We work to create an environment founded on trust, personal integrity, and a "team mentality" so that each person understands the value of their contributions both on a project and company-wide level. We know that each person on our team contributes to the success of our company by pairing expertise and passion to meet and exceed the needs of the clients we serve across the globe.

Our safety culture protects and promotes the well-being of every person who works with us and every person touched by our work.

As a 100% Teammate owned company, we proudly offer a comprehensive benefits package including, paid holidays, personal paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, 401(k), and other benefits to eligible Teammates.

Equal Opportunity Employment Statement

Hargrove is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, color, national origin, religion, age, sex (including gender, sexual orientation, pregnancy, sexual identity, marital or family status), disability, military service or obligations, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Hargrove is a drug-free workplace.

The selected candidate must be authorized to work in the United States.