2

Remote Refinery Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Remote Operator I

Bethlehem, PA · On-site +1

$17.50 - $23.50/hr

The Remote Operator 1 is responsible for the operation of approximately 6 plants while on shift ... Perform plant shutdowns and startups. * Power management and emergency response. * Monitor Key ...

Showing results 41-60

Remote Refinery Plant Operator information

See salary details

$13

$22

$39

How much do remote refinery plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for remote refinery plant operator in the United States is $22.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $25.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Remote Refinery Plant Operator vs Remote Petrochemical Plant Operator?

AspectRemote Refinery Plant OperatorRemote Petrochemical Plant Operator
CredentialsTypically requires HVAC, process operation certificationsSimilar certifications, often including chemical handling
Work EnvironmentRefinery facilities, remote monitoring stationsPetrochemical plants, remote control rooms
Employer & IndustryOil refining companies, energy sectorPetrochemical manufacturing, chemical industry

Both roles involve remote monitoring and operation of complex processing equipment, requiring technical certifications and safety knowledge. While they share similar environments and employer types, the main difference lies in the industry focus: refineries process crude oil into fuels, whereas petrochemical plants produce chemicals from raw materials. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers target the right roles based on their skills and industry interests.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a remote refinery plant operator?

To thrive as a Remote Refinery Plant Operator, you need a solid understanding of refinery processes, safety regulations, and mechanical or chemical engineering principles, often supported by relevant technical certifications or vocational training. Familiarity with distributed control systems (DCS), SCADA software, and process monitoring tools is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for responding to remote issues and coordinating with onsite teams. These abilities ensure safe, efficient plant operations and rapid response to any operational anomalies.

What is a remote refinery plant operator?

A Remote Refinery Plant Operator is a professional who monitors and controls refinery processes and equipment from a remote location, often using advanced digital systems and control panels. Their responsibilities include ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the refinery, troubleshooting issues, and responding to alarms or abnormal conditions. They play a critical role in maintaining operational standards, safety protocols, and environmental compliance, all while not being physically present at the refinery site. This role requires strong technical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to make quick decisions.

What are some unique challenges faced by remote refinery plant operators, and how are they typically addressed?

Remote Refinery Plant Operators often encounter challenges such as managing complex equipment from a distance, responding quickly to system alarms, and maintaining effective communication with onsite teams. To address these, operators rely on advanced monitoring technology, detailed standard operating procedures, and robust communication protocols. Continuous training and regular virtual meetings with plant personnel are also key to ensuring safety and operational efficiency.
What cities are hiring for Remote Refinery Plant Operator jobs? Cities with the most Remote Refinery Plant Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Refinery Plant Operator jobs? The most popular types of Refinery Plant Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Remote Refinery Plant Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Remote Refinery Plant Operator jobs include:

Remote Operator I

Messer Americas

Bethlehem, PA • On-site, Remote

$17.50 - $23.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Messer Americas rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

50th of 86 rated oil and gas companies


Job description

Job Summary:
Be part of the team at Messer that is responsible for the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of our air separation plant fleet from our central control room located in Bethlehem, PA. The Remote Operator 1 is responsible for the operation of approximately 6 plants while on shift including everything from steady state operation and optimization up to full plant restart events. Work in a collaborative environment, solve real world problems, and help us maintain our supply of Gases for Life to our customers.
Why Messer?
Messer is the world's largest privately held industrial gases company and what we do matters because it is woven into every part of life, from the medical gases that patients rely on to the essential elements needed to safely and sustainably produce the goods our communities depend on.
The true strength of Messer is our people-at every level and in every role.
Join us and take pride in the impact you will make by providing solutions essential to our world and lives. Reach your highest potential at our stable, inclusive company with diverse opportunities in a growing industry, supported by people who care.
Messer stands apart because we put what matters first, and you matter.
Principal Responsibilities:
  • Maintain safe, reliable, and efficient plant operation of approximately six air separation plants via computer interface while on shift.
  • Respond to and troubleshoot process upsets and plant problems.
  • Alarm management and response
  • Perform plant shutdowns and startups.
  • Power management and emergency response.
  • Monitor Key Performance Indicators and investigate / escalate any identified deficiencies.
  • Communicate plant status and performance to the business.
  • Provide ad-hoc support including alarm response, process manipulation, troubleshooting and investigation for non-ROC plants on a reactionary basis.
  • Maintain the integrity of the Messer Operations Network through strict adherence to defined network security practices and requirements.

Required Skills:
  • Willingness to work rotating shift - this is a 24 x 7 x 365 operation.
  • Excellent team player
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously and prioritize.
  • Analytical thinking ability to make quick and accurate decisions based on plant operational data and information.
  • Ability to maintain alertness to issues that arise within the operation and ability to react in a high stress environment.
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Basic computer proficiency

Basic Qualifications
  • High School diploma or GED
  • Candidates must meet one of the following requirements:
    • Minimum of 2 years plant experience in a process plant related operations role (examples include: chemicals, pharmaceuticals, oil and gas, power, etc.)
    • Military experience (examples: Navy Nukes, Navy Fire Controlman, Air Force Fuels)
    • Recent college graduates with an engineering or physical science degree

About Messer:
Messer's safety culture, commitment to providing dependable supply and innovative gas technology solutions help customers unlock opportunities to be safer, more sustainable, more productive and more efficient, so their business thrives. We nurture lasting, meaningful relationships with customers, our communities, and with one another.
We offer comprehensive benefits and appreciable pay, with steady schedules and opportunities for ongoing training and career progression. We prioritize and invest in our people at every level of our organization - the dedication, knowledge, customer focus and entrepreneurial spirit of our employees is what make Messer refreshingly different.
If you need assistance with the application or would like to request accommodation, call (877) 243-1030.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

What Messer Americas employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom