Top Refinery Operator Training Programs in Alabama
Are you looking to become a refinery operator in Alabama? The state strongly demands trained professionals in the oil and gas industry, with major refineries providing stable job opportunities. In this guide, we’ll cover the best training programs, self-paced courses, financial aid, and employment prospects within Alabama.
Refinery Operator Training Overview
Refinery operator training programs in Alabama focus on practical skills and theoretical knowledge. These programs prepare students for safe and efficient refinery operations.
Key Training Program Features
- Flexible Learning: Programs include self-paced and structured courses.
- Safety Training: Courses emphasize workplace safety in hazardous environments.
- Experienced Instructors: Industry experts provide hands-on guidance.
Major Oil Refineries in Alabama
Alabama has three major oil refineries, processing about 142,000 barrels daily. The largest refinery near Mobile, produces renewable diesel. These refineries refine crude oil into gasoline and diesel, supporting local and national energy needs.
| Refinery name | City | Capacity (bpd) | Owner/Operator |
| Vertex Refining Alabama LLC | Saraland | 88,000 | Vertex Energy LP / Vertex Refining Alabama LLC. |
| Hunt Refining Company | Tuscaloosa | 50,000 | Hunt Consolidated Inc. / Hunt Refining Co. |
| Goodway Refining LLC | Atmore | 4,100 | Goodway Refining LLC. |
Refineries also provide stable job opportunities. With transportation fuels making up 90% of petroleum use in Alabama as the demand for skilled workers continue to grow.
Comprehensive Oil Refinery Operations Courses
If you’re looking to launch a career in refinery operations, Alabama offers several high-quality training programs designed to prepare you for success in the energy sector. From online certification courses to hands-on technical degrees and industry-sponsored co-ops, these programs provide the practical skills and knowledge needed to operate, monitor, and maintain complex refinery systems. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to upskill, Alabama’s refinery training options offer flexible pathways to a stable and rewarding career.
For those interested in a career in oil refinery operations, consider one of the following training programs:
Online Oil Refinery Operations (University of South Alabama via ed2go)
- Address: 307 N University Blvd, Mobile, AL 36688, United States
- Tel: (251) 460-6101
The Oil Refinery Operations course from the University of South Alabama offers a flexible, practical path into refinery work, covering safety, equipment, and process fundamentals essential for entry-level operator roles. Upon completion, students receive a certificate of completion, demonstrating industry-ready skills in refinery operations.
- Best For: Entry-level learners preparing for refinery operator roles
- Mode: Fully online, approximately 400 hours
- Eligibility: Open enrollment, requires high school diploma or equivalent, and basic computer/Internet/email proficiency
- Content Includes: Core refining processes, safety protocols, instrumentation and control, and process fundamentals.
Online Oil Refinery Operations (Auburn University)
- Address: Auburn, AL 36849, United States
- Tel: (334) 844-4000
The Online Oil Refinery Operations course from Auburn University, delivered in partnership with ed2go, is a self-paced, 400-hour program designed to prepare students for entry-level roles in the refining industry. It offers flexible online access and covers essential industry topics, including:
- Safety protocols, hazard communication, and lockout/tagout
- Applied math and physics fundamentals
- Refinery process equipment: pumps, valves, and heat exchangers
- Instrumentation basics and reading process drawings
- Petroleum refining fundamentals, including distillation and control systems
Students can enroll anytime and earn a Certificate of Completion upon finishing the course.
Hunt Refining Operations Co‑Op Program (Shelton State Community College)
- Address: 9500 Old Greensboro Rd, Tuscaloosa, AL 35405, United States
- Tel: +1 205-391-2211
This program is an ideal choice for students pursuing a career in refinery operations. It combines classroom learning with paid, hands-on experience at Hunt Refining’s Tuscaloosa facility. With full tuition coverage and direct industry exposure, it’s a powerful springboard into high-demand refinery roles.
Program Highlights:
- Paid Co-Op Experience: Work directly at Hunt Refining while earning your degree
- Full Tuition Coverage: Hunt Refining pays for tuition, books, and fees
- Hands-On Training: Learn refinery operations in a real-world setting
- Academic + Industry Path: Complements technical associate degrees at Shelton State
- Career-Ready Skills: Gain experience in safety, process systems, and equipment monitoring
- Competitive Pay: Earn a wage while completing your training
- Located in Alabama: Based at Hunt’s Tuscaloosa refinery in partnership with Shelton State
- Strong Career Placement: A direct pipeline to full-time refinery operator roles
The Hunt Refining Co‑Op Program at Shelton State doesn’t issue a separate credential, but students earn a technical certificate or A.A.S. degree in a related field while gaining paid, hands-on refinery experience. Hunt covers tuition, books, and fees, making it a cost-free path to both education and industry training.
Average Rent Near Refinery Operator Schools in Alabama
The following off-campus figures use current local 1‑bedroom averages while on‑campus figures use published housing rates
Auburn University (Auburn, AL)
- Off‑campus: about $1,400/month for a 1‑bedroom near campus.
- On‑campus: about $936/month for a typical double room. universityhousing.auburn.edu
Shelton State Community College (Tuscaloosa, AL)
- Off‑campus: about $850/month for a 1‑bedroom in Tuscaloosa.
Additional Cost Considerations
Below are the common monthly costs students see when living off campus in Alabama. Figures reflect local/state rates and widely available plans.
Utilities
- Auburn (near Auburn University):
Expect around $260/month total for a 1‑bedroom: electricity ~$178/month, water & sewer base $30.56/month, and a common home internet plan $55/month (AT&T Fiber Internet 300 where available). - Tuscaloosa (near Shelton State):
Plan for roughly $255/month total: electricity ~$178 (state average), water & sewer base $29.29/month, and home internet $55/month
Note that some apartments include water, sewer or internet, be sure to check the lease before signing.
Transport and commute costs
- Auburn University:
Tiger Transit is fare‑free for students (covered by tuition/fees), so local bus rides cost $0. If you drive, student parking permits are $140/year. A realistic monthly drive budget for short commutes is about $120 (fuel + occasional parking). - Shelton State (Tuscaloosa):
Tuscaloosa Transit (TTA) fixed routes are $1 per ride, including a dedicated Shelton State route. Parking on Shelton State’s campus is free. A modest monthly drive or mixed bus budget is about $100.
Food and supplies
Groceries (single adult):
- Auburn/Lee County: ~$387/month
- Tuscaloosa County: ~$389/month
Personal supplies & toiletries:
- Budget ~$315/month in both Lee and Tuscaloosa Counties.
Dining out & entertainment:
- A lean student budget of ~$130/month keeps costs down.
Sample monthly budget
Below is what you can expect your monthly budget to look like based on your area. Adjust based on your actual lease and habits.
Auburn University
| Expense category | Estimated monthly cost |
| Off‑campus rent | $1,400 |
| Utilities cost (heat, electric, water, internet) | $260 |
| Groceries | $387 |
| Transport costs | $120 |
| Personal supplies and toiletries | $315 |
| Dining out and entertainment | $130 |
| Miscellaneous | $50 |
| Total estimated monthly cost | $2,662 |
Shelton State Community College
| Expense category | Estimated monthly cost |
| Off‑campus rent | $850 |
| Utilities cost (heat, electric, water, internet) | $255 |
| Groceries | $389 |
| Transport costs | $100 |
| Personal supplies and toiletries | $315 |
| Dining out and entertainment | $120 |
| Miscellaneous | $50 |
| Total estimated monthly cost | $2,079 |
Financial Aid and Assistance
While non-credit courses do not qualify for federal aid, students may explore:
- Vocational rehabilitation programs.
- Workforce development board funding.
- Limited financing options from select institutions.
Students facing financial challenges should research all available options.
Job Outlook and Salaries
Alabama’s refining industry offers stable job prospects. Entry-level positions include:
- Operations Technicians
- Chemical Production Operators
With experienced workers retiring, new job openings continue to emerge. Refinery positions offer opportunities for career growth, leading to supervisory and specialized technical roles.
Refinery operators in Alabama earn an average hourly wage of $24.65, which translates to about $51,270 annually. Entry-level operators, in the lower percentiles, typically make between $19.41 and $21.02 per hour, while more experienced workers in the higher brackets earn between $40.50 and $45.26 per hour, reflecting strong earning potential for those advancing in the field.
Refinery operator employment in Alabama shows steady growth, with more opportunities opening over the next decade.
- Employment (2022): 140 workers
- Projected Employment (2032): 150 workers
- Projected Growth (2022–2032): 7%
- Projected Annual Job Openings: 20
This steady growth highlights a stable career path for refinery operators in Alabama, with consistent annual openings ensuring opportunities for both new entrants and seasoned professionals.
Student Support Services
Advisory teams assist with enrollment and administrative support. Direct platform support helps students resolve issues efficiently.
Certification and Employment Readiness
Graduates receive certification upon program completion. This certificate confirms their expertise and enhances job opportunities. Certified professionals gain a competitive edge in the job market.
Refinery operator training in Alabama provides a strong foundation for a career in the energy sector. From flexible courses to hands-on learning, these programs prepare students for success. With high demand for operators, certified individuals can secure stable jobs and grow their careers in refinery operations.