Top Refinery Operator Training Programs in Hawaii
Hawaii’s refinery operator training programs prepare individuals for careers in the state’s energy industry, which includes refining petroleum products and supporting renewable energy projects.
The state has one Par Hawaii Refinery in Kapolei, Oahu, operated by Par Hawaii Refining, LLC. This facility has a processing capacity of 94,000 barrels per day and supplies gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, and marine fuel. Due to Hawaii’s lack of domestic crude oil reserves, the refinery imports crude oil from global sources. Trained operators are essential for maintaining safety and efficiency at this facility.
These programs combine classroom learning with hands-on training to teach essential skills for operating and maintaining refinery equipment.
In April 2023, Par Hawaii announced a $90 million investment to build the state’s most significant renewable fuels manufacturing facility at the Kapolei refinery. This project aims to produce around 61 million gallons per year of renewable diesel, sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), renewable naphtha, and liquefied petroleum gases (LPG), with completion expected in 2025.
Overview of Refinery Operator Training Programs
Refinery operator training focuses on safety, equipment operation, and process control. Programs cover key areas such as:
- Industrial safety procedures
- Process instrumentation and control
- Boiler and steam systems
- Emergency response protocols
- Hands-on equipment training
Training is available for beginners and experienced professionals. Some institutions offer online courses for flexibility.
Requirements for Refinery Operator Training
To enroll in a training program, applicants typically need:
- A high school diploma or equivalent
- Basic math skills (especially algebra)
- Legal authorization to work in the U.S.
These requirements ensure students have the foundational knowledge needed for refinery operations.
Top Training Institutions in Hawaii
Several institutions in Hawaii offer refinery operator training, including:
Honolulu Community College
- Address: 874 Dillingham Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96817, United States
- Tel: +1 808-845-9211
HonCC delivers a Process Technology (PTEC) program geared toward preparing students for operational roles in industrial settings such as chemical plants, petroleum refineries, power plants, and wastewater treatment facilities. The curriculum emphasizes safety, instrumentation, control systems, and process monitoring as foundational skills for refinery-related careers.
Program Highlights:
- Program Name: Process Technology (TRAD 5100 / TRAD 1550)
- Credential: Certificate of Professional Development in Process Plant Operations
- Instruction Format: Classroom and lab-based training through PCATT centers (primarily on Oʻahu)
Core Focus Areas:
- Equipment operation: pumps, distillation units, heat exchangers, valves
- Instrumentation and control loops; process monitoring and data evaluation
- Safety standards training, including OSHA aligned procedures
- Maintenance principles and process troubleshooting
Career Preparation: Hands-on exposure, simulation environments, and strong local industry ties for job referrals and internship opportunities via PCATT.
University of Hawaii Maui College
- Address: 310 W Kaahumanu Ave, Kahului, HI 96732, United States
- Tel: +1 808-984-3500
At University of Hawaiʻi Maui College, the Electronic & Computer Engineering Technology (ECET) program provides students with hands‑on exposure to control systems, instrumentation, power systems, and automation fundamentals. These skills are closely relevant to process‑industry and refinery operations roles.
Program Highlights:
- Credential Types: Certificate of Competence (CO), Certificate of Achievement (CA), and Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) in ECET
- Core Competencies:
- Design and implement instrumentation systems, control systems, and power systems
- Troubleshoot electro‑optic and control systems
- Calibrate sensors and test automation systems
- Related Electrical Coursework:
- EE 160 – Programming for Engineers: programming basics for automation and embedded logic
- EE 211 – Basic Circuit Analysis I: foundational circuit theory lecture + lab
- Industry Engagement: Advisory board–driven curriculum ensures relevance to local employers and technology applications
- Potential Transfer & Growth: ECET graduates can pursue roles as industrial technologists or continue into broader engineering paths as needed
Core Training Topics
Process Instrumentation and Control
Students learn to monitor and adjust process variables such as temperature, pressure, and flow rate. Training includes interpreting piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs) and troubleshooting system issues.
Electrical Safety and Boiler Systems
Refinery operators must understand electrical safety and boiler operations. Training covers steam generation, combustion processes, and power plant equipment maintenance.
Emergency Response and Safety Protocols
Programs emphasize safety training, including handling hazardous materials and responding to emergencies. Proper safety measures help prevent accidents and ensure compliance with industry regulations.
Average Rent Near Refinery Operator Schools in Hawaii
HCC is a commuter campus (no dorms), so housing is off‑campus in nearby Honolulu neighborhoods.
Honolulu Community College — off‑campus (1‑bedroom): ~$1,725/month. (Citywide 1‑BR average, September 2025.)
Additional Cost Considerations
If you’re renting off campus in Honolulu, plan for utilities, transport/commute, and everyday essentials. Below are straightforward monthly figures with local sources.
Utilities
Typical monthly bundle for a Honolulu 1‑bedroom:
- Electricity: about $194/month (Hawaiian Electric’s “typical residential bill” for 500 kWh, August 2025).
- Water: about $60/month for an average single‑family user, with scheduled increases through 2028 (Board of Water Supply plan reported by Civil Beat). Apartments vary by usage/lease.
- Sewer (multi‑family example): about $75.54/month at 6,000 gal usage in 2025 (City & County ENV sample bill).
- Internet: about $50/month (entry plans—e.g., Spectrum Internet Premier $50/mo or Hawaiian Telcom Fioptics from $50/mo with eBill).
Transport and Commute Costs
- TheBus (HOLO) – Adult: Month cap $80 (unlimited once the cap is reached).
- HCC U‑Pass (student bus pass): $225 per semester (issued at the HCC Cashier’s Office; cost and dates set each term).
- Campus parking (HCC): $20 per term (student permit).
- If you drive: Honolulu gas ~ $4.38/gal right now (AAA).
Food and Supplies
- Groceries: about $453/month for one adult in Honolulu County (MIT “Food,” Feb 2025 update).
- Personal supplies, toiletries & other basics: MIT’s “Other” necessities benchmark totals about $396/month for one adult in Honolulu County; in the budget below, this is split across Personal supplies, Dining out & entertainment, and Miscellaneous to keep planning simple.
Sample Monthly Budget
Below is an example for an HCC student renting a 1‑bedroom off campus in Honolulu and using the TheBus monthly cap for transit. Be sure to adjust these figures accordingly.
| Expense Category | Estimated Monthly Cost |
| Off‑campus rent | $1,725 |
| Utilities cost (heat/electric, water/sewer, internet) | $380 |
| Groceries | $453 |
| Transport costs | $80 |
| Personal supplies and toiletries | $150 |
| Dining out and entertainment | $180 |
| Miscellaneous | $66 |
| Total estimated monthly cost | $3,034 |
Hands-On Training and Field Experience
Practical training is a key part of refinery operator programs. Students gain experience through:
- Operating refinery equipment
- Performing quality control tests
- Troubleshooting mechanical and electrical issues
These skills help graduates transition smoothly into the workforce.
Career Opportunities and Advancement
Refinery operator training leads to career opportunities in Hawaii’s energy sector. As experienced operators retire, new positions become available. Entry-level jobs provide competitive wages and opportunities for advancement to management roles.
Unlike many states, Hawaii is expected to see a slight decline in refinery operator jobs over the coming decade. However, steady annual openings will continue to provide opportunities, mainly from retirements and workforce turnover, ensuring pathways remain for individuals seeking to build a career in the field.
- Employment (2022): 190 employees
- Projected employment (2032): 180 employees
- Projected growth (2022–2032): -6%
- Projected annual job openings (2022–2032): 20
Entry-Level Positions
Many employers prefer candidates with mechanical or construction experience. Training programs help students gain the necessary skills for starting positions.
Refinery Operator Salaries in Hawaii
| Area | Mean Hourly Wage | Mean annual wage | Hourly wage 10th percentile | Hourly wage 25th percentile | Hourly wage 75th percentile | Hourly wage 90th percentile |
| Hawaii | $42.03 | $87,420 | $31.28 | $36.43 | $47.82 | $59.83 |
| Urban Honolulu, HI | $41.49 | $86,300 | $31.28 | $36.43 | $47.82 | $59.83 |
Advancement to Management
With experience, operators can move into leadership roles. Management positions require additional skills in team coordination, process optimization, and safety enforcement.
Benefits of Refinery Operator Careers in Hawaii
Working as a refinery operator in Hawaii offers benefits such as:
- Competitive salaries
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Paid time off and retirement plans
- Education reimbursement programs
As Hawaii shifts toward locally produced energy, demand for skilled refinery operators is expected to grow. Training programs provide the knowledge and experience needed for stable, well-paying careers in this expanding industry.