Top Refinery Operator Training Programs in New Jersey
Refinery operator training programs in New Jersey provide the skills needed for jobs in the energy sector. The state remains a key hub for petrochemical processing, with major refineries in cities like Linden, Paulsboro, and Bayonne.
Programs at Middlesex County College and Union County College equip students with hands-on experience and industry certifications, preparing them for well-paying careers in this essential field.
New Jersey is home to key refineries that drive its energy industry:
- Bayway Refinery (Linden/Elizabeth)—Owned by Phillips 66, this refinery processes about 238,000 barrels per day and produces gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, propane, and heating oil.
- Paulsboro Refinery (Paulsboro) – Operated by PBF Energy, it refines various crude oils and produces gasoline, heating oil, and aviation jet fuel.
These refineries provide steady employment opportunities for skilled professionals trained in refinery operations.
Training Programs Overview
Middlesex County College and Union County College offer refinery operator training. These programs combine classroom learning with hands-on training to prepare students for refinery operations.
Certification and Job Opportunities
Graduates earn certifications that meet industry standards, improving job prospects. Refinery operators in New Jersey can earn between $45 and $55 per hour, depending on experience and role.
Program Details
Middlesex College — Process Technology (A.A.S.)
- Address: 2600 Woodbridge Ave, Edison, NJ 08837, United States
- Tel: +1 732-548-6000
In Edison, this associate degree builds the skills operators use across process industries—oil & gas and petrochemical included—with strong coverage of safety, instrumentation, procedures, troubleshooting, and hands‑on simulation.
Program highlights
- Degree: Associate in Applied Science (Process Technology).
- Industry fit: Training aimed at process‑technician/operator roles in sectors such as oil & gas, chemical/petrochemical, power generation, paper, pharma, and food.
- Skills focus: Safety practices; equipment and tools; operating procedures and technical reporting; basic instrumentation; troubleshooting; data management/computer use.
- Hands‑on learning: A capstone course runs a computer‑based process‑control simulator and VR modules that emulate chemical‑plant/refinery operations.
- Math readiness: Algebra I competency required before major courses.
Salem Community College — Nuclear Energy Technology (A.A.S.)
- Address: 460 Hollywood Ave, Carneys Point, NJ 08069, United States
- Tel: +1 856-299-2100
Located in Carneys Point, this on‑campus program develops operator‑ready competencies for power‑generation environments, emphasizing systems, instrumentation, and safety—skills that translate to control‑room and field operations across complex plants.
Program highlights
- Degree: Associate in Applied Science (Nuclear Energy Technology).
- Operator‑oriented coursework: Instrumentation & Control I/II; Reactor Plant Protection & Safety; Nuclear Plant Systems & Components (PWR and BWR); Heat Transfer & Fluid Flow; Applied Physics & Chemistry.
- Career paths: Prepares for roles such as power plant operator, nuclear equipment/monitoring technician, and reactor operator—foundational operations skills applicable to other large process facilities.
Hands-on Training
Both programs emphasize real-world training with equipment such as heat exchangers and distillation simulators, which prepares students for operational challenges in refineries.
Refinery Operations Internship Programs in New Jersey
Operator‑adjacent refining internships immerse students in refinery operations, working alongside operations/engineering teams with structured mentoring.
Phillips 66, offers a Bayway‑based internship within Refining operations, with orientation/training events, an assigned mentor, and a required end‑of‑summer presentation.
Learning Formats
- Online Courses: Allow flexible learning schedules.
- In-Person Classes: Provide direct interaction with instructors.
- Students can choose the format that fits their needs.
Certification Requirements
To work as a refinery operator, candidates must:
- Complete an approved training program.
- Pass certification exams.
- Renew certification annually before September 30th.
- Gain operational experience for advanced licenses.
Financial Assistance
- Students can apply for federal aid through FAFSA.
- Work-study programs offer financial support.
- Scholarships are available based on financial need and academic performance.
Job Outlook
New Jersey’s refinery operator employment is projected to remain steady over the next decade. Although growth is not expected, annual job openings will continue to provide some opportunities for new workers.
- Employment (2022): 200 employees
- Projected employment (2032): 200 employees
- Projected growth (2022–2032): 0%
- Projected annual job openings (2022–2032): 20
Refinery Operator Salaries in New Jersey
| Area | Mean Hourly Wage | Mean annual wage | Hourly wage 10th percentile | Hourly wage 25th percentile | Hourly wage 75th percentile | Hourly wage 90th percentile |
| New Jersey | $48.72 | $101,340 | $37.25 | $47.26 | $48.72 | $55.45 |
| Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton, PA-NJ | $44.20 | $91,930 | $36.79 | $43.76 | $44.20 | $44.20 |
| New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ | $48.72 | $101,340 | $37.25 | $47.27 | $48.72 | $51.67 |
| Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD | $49.20 | $102,340 | $40.53 | $46.47 | $51.17 | $51.67 |
Graduate Success Stories
Former students praise these programs for:
- Knowledgeable instructors.
- Flexible schedules.
- Industry connections leading to job placements.
Refinery operator training programs in New Jersey provide essential skills, certification, and career opportunities. With structured learning and hands-on training, graduates are well-prepared for stable, high-paying jobs in the energy sector.