Refinery Operator Training Programs in Colorado
Refinery operator training programs in Colorado provide essential education and hands-on experience to prepare workers for roles in oil refining.
These programs focus on safety protocols, process instrumentation, and power plant operations, ensuring operators are well-equipped for industry demands. Due to workforce retirements, there is a growing need for entry-level operators, and completing a training program can open doors to stable employment and career advancement in the state’s refining sector.
Colorado is home to the Suncor Energy refinery in Commerce City, the state’s sole major petroleum refinery. This facility processes approximately 98,000 barrels of crude oil daily, producing gasoline, diesel fuel, and paving-grade asphalt for Colorado residents.
Refinery Operator Training in Colorado
Colorado offers various training options, including on-the-job training and formal education, to meet industry demands. These programs focus on safety protocols, process instrumentation, and power plant operations to prepare operators for their roles.
The industry faces a growing need for entry-level operators due to workforce retirements. This trend creates job opportunities for new graduates completing these programs.
Training Opportunities in Colorado
Colorado provides multiple educational paths for those pursuing refinery operator careers. With several refineries in the state, the demand for skilled workers remains strong. Training programs focus on key skills such as process control, safety compliance, and power plant operations.
Aspiring refinery operators can choose from hands-on training programs and academic courses. These programs provide essential knowledge for entry-level roles and career growth. Below are the main types of training available.
Oil Refinery Operations (Front Range Community College via ed2go)
- Address: 4616 S Shields St, Fort Collins, CO 80526, United States
- Tel: +1 970-226-2500
The online Oil Refinery Operations course from Front Range Community College teaches safety, distillation, and process control—ideal for beginners seeking entry-level refinery jobs.
- Ideal For: Entry-level learners seeking basics applicable to U.S. refineries
- Format: Fully online, approximately 400 hours of coursework
- Curriculum: Includes refinery process fundamentals, safety protocols, instrumentation and controls, and distillation methods
Power Plant Operations (Front Range Community College via ed2go)
- Address: 4616 S Shields St, Fort Collins, CO 80526, United States
- Tel: +1 970-226-2500
The fully online, self‑paced Power Plant Operations training equips beginners with essential knowledge of power generation systems, safety standards, process control, and equipment operation—ideal for launching a career as an entry-level power plant operator in the energy sector
- Format: Fully online training
- Content: Technical fundamentals in electricity, thermodynamics, and process systems
- Relevance: While industry-specific, the skills are transferable to refinery environments—especially around control systems and safety
Key Components of Refinery Operator Training
Refinery training programs cover essential topics to prepare operators for their responsibilities. These include:
- Process Instrumentation: Monitoring flows, temperatures, and pressures to ensure stable refinery operations.
- Safety Protocols: Adhering to industry safety procedures and maintaining electrical safety.
- Power Plant Operations: Understanding steam generation and boiler systems for energy production.
Average Rent Near Refinery Operator Schools in Colorado
There are no official in-person refinery operator programs listed on this page, however, there are institutes in the state that offer in-person programs that line up with a career in refinery operations. Below are average costs to consider for those who choose to go the alternative route.
Average rent for off-campus housing
Westminster (Westminster, CO)
- Off‑campus: about $1,593/month for a 1‑bedroom in Westminster.
Larimer (Fort Collins, CO)
- Off‑campus: about $1,586/month for a 1‑bedroom in Fort Collins.
Boulder County (Longmont, CO)
- Off‑campus: about $1,621/month for a 1‑bedroom in Longmont.
Additional Cost Considerations
If you’re renting near an FRCC campus, plan for utilities, transportation (which differs by city), and day‑to‑day essentials.
Utilities
Typical monthly utilities for a 1‑bedroom near each campus:
- Westminster area (FRCC Westminster):
- Electricity: about $95 (Colorado residential average).
- Natural gas (heat/cooking): about $100 in winter; expect less in shoulder months.
- Water & sewer: city charges include a $15.34 monthly meter fee plus volumetric water and sewer rates; small apartments commonly land around $40–$60/month.
- Internet: common cable plan ~$55/month.
Fort Collins area (FRCC Larimer):
- Electricity: about $95.
- Water: about $56.75.
- Wastewater: about $39.18.
- Internet: $70/month.
- Natural gas (heat/cooking): about $100 in winter.
Longmont area (FRCC Boulder County):
- Electricity: about $95.
- Wastewater (base): $11.50/month plus usage; budgeting ~$40–$60 for water/sewer is typical for a small unit.
- Internet: $69.95/month.
- Natural gas (heat/cooking): about $100 in winter.
Transport and Commute Costs
- Westminster (RTD region): Adult Monthly Pass $88; youth (19 and under) ride free. Many FRCC students simply budget the $88.
Parking at FRCC: no separate permit cost—parking lot upkeep is covered by a small per‑credit fee ($1.86/credit).
Fuel: Colorado regular averages about $3.08–$3.14/gal. - Fort Collins (Transfort): Fare‑free on all routes, including the MAX BRT. Many students can budget $0 for local bus.
- Longmont (RTD local within city): Ride Free Longmont makes local routes free; regional routes charge standard RTD fares.
Food and Supplies
County‑level benchmarks for a single adult (simple monthly figures):
- Groceries: Adams County (Westminster): ~$388/mo
- Personal supplies & toiletries: ~$396/mo
Sample Monthly Budget
Below are simple, ready‑to‑use budgets for each FRCC campus assuming a 1‑bedroom off‑campus apartment and the most affordable common transit option in that city.
FRCC — Westminster (RTD Monthly Pass user)
| Expense Category | Estimated Monthly Cost |
| Off‑campus rent | $1,593 |
| Utilities cost (heat, electric, water, internet) | $285 |
| Groceries | $354 |
| Transport costs | $88 (RTD Monthly Pass) |
| Personal supplies and toiletries | $130 |
| Dining out and entertainment | $150 |
| Miscellaneous | $115 |
| Total estimated monthly cost | $2,715 |
FRCC — Larimer / Fort Collins (fare‑free Transfort)
| Expense Category | Estimated Monthly Cost |
| Off‑campus rent | $1,586 |
| Utilities cost (heat, electric, water, internet) | $300 |
| Groceries | $388 |
| Transport costs | $0 (Transfort fare‑free) |
| Personal supplies and toiletries | $130 |
| Dining out and entertainment | $150 |
| Miscellaneous | $116 |
| Total estimated monthly cost | $2,670 |
FRCC — Boulder County / Longmont (Ride Free Longmont for local)
| Expense Category | Estimated Monthly Cost |
| Off‑campus rent | $1,621 |
| Utilities cost (heat, electric, water, internet) | $290 |
| Groceries | $440 |
| Transport costs | $0 (Ride Free Longmont local) |
| Personal supplies and toiletries | $130 |
| Dining out and entertainment | $150 |
| Miscellaneous | $116 |
| Total estimated monthly cost | $2,747 |
Enrollment and Support
Enrolling in refinery operator training programs in Colorado is straightforward. Enrollment specialists assist with course selection and payment options. Financial aid is available to eligible students.
A student advising team provides guidance on academic and career paths. These advisors help students navigate coursework and administrative requirements.
Apprenticeship Programs and Events
Apprenticeships offer practical training and job placement opportunities. Programs combine classroom learning with hands-on experience to prepare participants for refinery careers.
National Apprenticeship Week events provide industry insights through webinars and workshops. These events help prospective students understand the field and make professional connections.
Career Pathways and Advancement
Refinery operators can advance from entry-level positions to senior management roles. With many operators nearing retirement, job openings continue to increase.
- Entry-Level Employment: Starting salaries range from $13 to $20 per hour.
- Senior Management Positions: Advancement requires years of experience and strong leadership skills.
- Industry Demand: The need for new operators remains high, offering long-term career opportunities.
Refinery operator jobs in Colorado are expected to see a slight decline over the next decade. While overall employment numbers may decrease, steady annual openings will continue to provide opportunities for new workers entering the field.
- Employment (2022): 500 employees
- Projected employment (2032): 470 employees
- Projected growth (2022–2032): -6%
- Projected annual job openings (2022–2032): 40
Colorado provides multiple training options for aspiring refinery operators. Whether through hands-on apprenticeships or formal education, these programs equip individuals with the skills needed for a successful career in oil refining. Completing these programs can lead to stable employment and career advancement as industry demand grows.