Top Refinery Operator Training Programs in Missouri
Are you looking to start a career as a refinery operator in Missouri? This guide outlines top training programs, key skills you will learn, and career opportunities in the energy sector.
Refinery Operator Training in Missouri
Missouri has several industrial hubs with refineries and chemical processing plants, making it a strong location for refinery operator training programs. These programs provide hands-on training in safety protocols, equipment operation, and refinery processes, ensuring students gain the expertise needed for entry-level roles in the state’s energy sector.
Graduates can find job opportunities in refineries located in key areas such as St. Louis and Kansas City, where demand for skilled operators remains steady. Graduates gain skills in process control, instrumentation, and problem-solving. They also develop the analytical abilities needed to handle refinery operations efficiently.
Job opportunities in this field are substantial, with entry-level wages starting around $19.50 per hour. These roles offer growth potential within the energy industry.
Required Skills and Qualifications
With no crude refineries in the state, training grads typically pursue fuel terminal, pipeline, or chemical/process roles. Employers emphasize HS/GED, safety and mechanical aptitude, ability to work rotating shifts in outdoor conditions, and background/drug screening.
Top Refinery Operator Training Programs
Missouri provides multiple training options for those entering the energy sector. These programs teach technical knowledge, safety procedures, and refinery operations.
Missouri educational institutions offer courses designed to meet industry demands. These programs focus on practical learning and problem-solving skills. Many schools provide online study options, allowing students to balance education with other responsibilities.
Key Skills Taught in Refinery Training Programs
Training programs equip students with the skills for safe and efficient refinery operations. These include:
- Process Management – Understanding and monitoring refinery systems.
- Instrumentation Knowledge – Learning system controls and process variables.
- Safety Protocols – Following safety standards to prevent hazards.
- Problem-Solving – Troubleshooting refinery processes.
- Equipment Operation – Managing pumps, control systems, and refinery technology.
Leading Institutions for Refinery Operator Training
Several institutions in Missouri offer training for refinery operators. These programs provide hands-on experience and theoretical knowledge.
Ranken Technical College – Control Systems Technology
- Address: 4431 Finney Ave, St. Louis, MO 63113, United States
- Tel: +1 314-371-0236
- Tuition Fees: $8,640/semester ($720/technical credit hr)
This program offers hands‑on training for the instrumentation, electrical/motor controls, PLCs, and computer‑based systems used in highly automated plants – including refineries and chemical facilities.
Program highlights:
- In‑person industrial controls training with a focus on installing, calibrating, troubleshooting, and servicing control‑system components.
- Prepares graduates for roles such as electrical/instrumentation technician and control systems technician.
- Credentials: Associate of Technology or Associate of Science (day); Certificate in Control Systems Technology (evening). Locations in St. Louis and Wentzville.
- Recent “Quick Stats” list a 100% job placement rate for both day and evening programs .
State Technical College of Missouri – Energy Technology (A.A.S.)
- Address: 1 Technology Dr, Linn, MO 65051, United States
- Tel: +1 573-897-5000.
- Tuition Fees:
- Resident: $225/credit
- Non-resident: $450/credit
Operator‑focused A.A.S. for modern power‑generation facilities, covering equipment operation, safety culture, and the core technologies – electricity/electronics, motors and controls, piping & instrumentation, thermodynamics, and fluid flow – that underpin plant operations.
Program highlights:
- A.A.S. degree (71 credits) preparing graduates for entry‑level positions at power plants where steam and/or electricity is generated.
- Key courses include Piping & Instrumentation Drawing, Steam Generation, Boilers & Environmental Protection, Turbines & Combined Cycle, Water Purification & Treatment, Heat Transfer/Fluid Flow/Thermodynamics, and Industrial Motors & Their Controls.
- Internship (~320 hours) builds real‑world operating experience. Competitive admission; grade of C or better required in core/program courses.
- Introductory coursework notes exposure to natural gas processing facilities alongside other generation environments.
Northwest Missouri State University
This self‑paced online program builds the core skills for entry‑level refinery operator roles – safety, instrumentation, process control, and troubleshooting. You can start anytime and complete the training fully online.
Tuition Fee: $2,835.00
Program HighlIghts:
- Format: 100% online, self‑paced; start anytime.
- Length & access: 400 hours, up to 12 months to finish.
- Credential: Certificate of Completion (noncredit).
- Key topics: safety (LOTO/HAZCOM), P&IDs, basic instrumentation & control, pumps/heat exchangers, distillation & refinery processes.
- Who it’s for / prereqs: Beginners; HS diploma/equivalent and basic computer skills recommended.
Pathways Into Refinery Operations
Breaking into refinery work doesn’t always require a “refinery operations” degree. You can build a pathway using related technical training that teaches key skills like system control, safety procedures, and equipment monitoring.
In Missouri, you’ll find Oil Refinery Operations training among the options. Complementing that, paths such as Process Technology, Instrumentation & Controls, Industrial Maintenance, Petroleum Technology, or Safety & Environment are also great choices. These programs help you master equipment systems, control logic, maintenance, and safety protocols – skills that refineries demand from their operators. Start in field roles and grow into control room, optimization, or leadership positions as you gain experience.
Average Rent Near Refinery Training Schools in Missouri
Most students live off campus in/around Linn or nearby Jefferson City. Below is an example of the average rent for students staying near or attending The State Technical College of Missouri.
- State Technical College of Missouri (Linn, MO)
- Off‑campus (near campus, 1‑BR in Linn): ~$525/month**.** Zillow
Alternative nearby: Jefferson City (≈25 miles) 1‑BR averages ~$571/month. Apartments.com
Listed shared option near campus: $325/month per student in 4‑bedroom units (water/sewer/trash included). State Tech - On‑campus: Residence cottages; Double $2,000/semester, Single $4,000/semester, Triple $1,600/semester; 14‑meal plan required $1,600/semester. (Monthly equivalent depends on term length.) State Tech
- Off‑campus (near campus, 1‑BR in Linn): ~$525/month**.** Zillow
Additional Cost Considerations
If you rent off campus around Linn/Jefferson City, plan for utilities, transport/commute, and everyday essentials.
Utilities
- Electricity: ~$126/month – Missouri’s average residential electric bill (latest full year). U.S. Energy Information Administration
- Natural gas (heat/cooking): ~$70–$90/month typical for Spire customers; regulators approved a ~10% increase starting Oct 2025 (about +$8/month on an average bill). https://www.firstalert4.com+1
- Water & sewer: Plan ~$50/month** for a small apartment when tenant‑paid.** Linn’s minimum water charge is $17/month for the first 1,000 gal; nearby Jefferson City sewer bills use a $14.05 base + $4.26 per 100 cu ft usage formula. (Your lease or provider will determine your actual bill.) Unterrified Democrat+1
- Home internet: Entry plans are typically $50–$55/month (e.g., Spectrum Internet Premier $50; AT&T Fiber 300 $55, where available). Spectrum+1
Transport and commute costs
- Local transit (rural): OATS Transit serves Osage County/Linn with $2.00 per one‑way ride; trips are scheduled in advance. OATS Transit+2OATS Transit+2
- Jefferson City (if you live there): JEFFTRAN Student 20‑ride pass $27 (Adult 20‑ride $30). Revize+1
- Driving: Missouri’s current regular gas average ~ $2.88/gal (AAA). Student parking permits are required on the State Tech campus (see campus parking page for rules/issuance). AAA Fuel Prices+1
Food and supplies
MIT’s county benchmarks for a single adult in Osage County are a handy planning guide:
- Groceries (“Food”): ~ $337/month. Living Wage Calculator
- Personal/household basics (“Other”): ~ $343/month. In the budget below, this is split across Personal supplies, Dining out & entertainment, and Miscellaneous for simple planning.
Sample Monthly Budget
Below is an example for a State Tech student renting a 1‑bedroom in Linn and driving (fuel budget based on the AAA Missouri gas average).
| Expense category | Estimated monthly cost |
| Off campus rent | $525 |
| Utilities cost (heat, electric, water, internet) | $306 |
| Groceries | $337 |
| Transport costs | $60 |
| Personal supplies and toiletries | $120 |
| Dining out and entertainment | $140 |
| Miscellaneous | $83 |
| Total estimated monthly cost | $1,571 |
Admission Requirements
Applicants typically need a high school diploma to enroll in a refinery operator training program. A strong background in math and science is beneficial. Key subjects include:
- Algebra and trigonometry for process calculations.
- Essential physics for understanding refinery systems.
Course Structure and Duration
Most refinery operator training programs in Missouri last up to 12 months. Courses cover:
- Safety regulations.
- Process management.
- Power generation principles.
- Electrical safety.
Programs are designed for individuals without prior experience, making them accessible to many students.
Financial Assistance and Aid Options
Students pursuing refinery operator training can apply for financial aid. Federal assistance includes grants, loans, and work-study programs. To apply:
- Complete the FAFSA form to determine eligibility.
- Explore state and local funding options.
- Avoid scams – legitimate aid applications do not require fees.
Career Opportunities After Training
Graduates of refinery training programs enter a stable job market with competitive wages. Entry-level refinery operators in Missouri start at around $21.77 per hour.
Earning a certificate improves job prospects. Employers seek candidates with equipment operation, quality control, and safety compliance knowledge.
Career growth opportunities include moving into supervisory or management roles with additional training and experience.
Refinery operator training programs in Missouri provide essential skills for careers in the energy sector. With multiple training options, flexible study formats, and strong job prospects, these programs offer a solid path to a stable and rewarding career.
Refinery Operator Salaries in Missouri
| Area | Mean Hourly Wage | Mean annual wage | Hourly wage 10th percentile | Hourly wage 25th percentile | Hourly wage 75th percentile | Hourly wage 90th percentile |
| Missouri | $37.73 | $78,480 | $21.77 | $29.88 | $53.87 | $55.43 |
| Kansas City, MO-KS | $43.36 | $90,180 | $26.80 | $32.99 | $53.87 | $55.43 |
Career Outlook
Missouri is projected to see a slight increase in refinery operator employment over the next decade. While growth will be minimal, consistent annual openings will ensure steady opportunities in the field.
- Employment (2022): 930 employees
- Projected employment (2032): 940 employees
- Projected growth (2022–2032): 1%
- Projected annual job openings (2022–2032): 90
Refinery Operator Job Listings in Missouri
Missouri openings span St. Louis (refinery/terminals along the Mississippi), Kansas City and St. Joseph (chem, food processing, utilities), plus Springfield, Joplin, and Cape Girardeau. Not every posting is a refinery-operator job – or even directly refinery-track – but many connect to process operations, maintenance, and E&I/instrumentation across 24/7 plants, pipelines, and power/water facilities. Expect day and rotating shifts with steady demand near river terminals, interstate corridors, and major manufacturing sites.
| Job Title | Company | Location | Date Posted |
| System Operator | Associated Electric Cooperative, Inc. | Springfield, MO | 05/22/2025 |
Please note that the above mentioned job listings are not permanent and are subject to change. For more accurated information, please visit CareerOneStop.org.