Top Refinery Operator Training Programs in Mississippi
Mississippi’s energy sector is expanding and fueled by major refineries such as Chevron’s Pascagoula Refinery, which creates steady demand for skilled refinery operators. If you are looking for refinery operator training programs in Mississippi, several institutions offer hands-on instruction to prepare students for high-paying careers in this industry.
These programs focus on refinery operations, safety procedures, and process technology, ensuring graduates are ready to enter the workforce.
Refinery Operator Training Programs
Mississippi has several institutions offering refinery operator training. These programs focus on hands-on experience, safety, and refinery operations. Leading schools include Clark Community College, Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, and Delta State University.
Graduates from these programs find job opportunities in the energy sector. The demand for skilled operators is growing due to industry expansion and retirements. Financial aid, including scholarships and federal assistance, is available to help students enroll.
Key Institutions Offering Training
Several Mississippi schools provide high-quality refinery operator training. These programs equip students with the skills needed to work in the energy sector. The leading institutions include:
Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College — Process Operations Technology (Jackson County Campus)
- Address: 2300 Highway 90 Gautier, MS 39553
- Tel:(228) 896-2536
The process operations technology program at Gulf Coast Community College, build the core operating skills used in refineries and other process plants, from safety and equipment fundamentals to troubleshooting and control. The program offers stackable credentials up to an Associate of Applied Science and lists petroleum refineries among its target workplaces.
Program highlights
- Credentials: Certificate (30 credits), Diploma (additional 15 credits), or Associate of Applied Science (final 15–17 credits).
- Career scope includes petroleum refineries, power generation, chemical and pharmaceutical plants, water/wastewater, food & beverage, and offshore production.
- Representative coursework: Introduction to Process Technology, Process Systems & Equipment, Safety/Health/Environment, Process Instrumentation I–II, Process Operations, and Process Troubleshooting I–II.
- Completers are required to take the NOCTI National Certification Exam.
Southwest Mississippi Community College — Energy Operations Processes Technology (AAS)
- Address: 1156 College Dr, Summit, MS 39666, United States
- Tel: +1 601-276-2000
An on‑campus, two‑year pathway that prepares entry‑level operators for processing facilities. The curriculum covers oil & gas production systems, instrumentation (pneumatic and electronic), flow diagrams, safety systems, and troubleshooting, with industry safety credentials embedded.
Program highlights
- Award: Associate of Applied Science (two years).
- Key courses: Oil & Gas Production I–II, Oil & Gas Equipment I–II, Oil & Gas Systems, Pneumatic & Electronic Instrumentation, Production Safety Systems, Production Troubleshooting, and a capstone project.
- Industry credentials listed: Basic Production (J. Schneider & Associates), T2 (J. Schneider & Associates), and SafeLand/SafeGulf.
- Admission note: Priority consideration for applicants with an ACT composite of 18 or equivalent placement.
Pearl River Community College — Automation & Controls Technology (Instrumentation)
- Address: Ted J. Alexander Administration Building, 101 US-11, Poplarville, MS 39470, United States
- Tel: +1 601-403-1000
Hands‑on training in the electrical, electronic, hydraulic/pneumatic, robotics, and instrumentation/PLC systems that underpin refinery and process‑plant operations. The program specifies Oil & Gas, energy, chemicals, and water/wastewater among its target industries and culminates in an associate degree.
Program highlights
- Industry alignment: Oil & Gas, Energy, Chemicals, Water & Wastewater, Manufacturing, Aerospace, and Mining.
- Skill set: Test and measurement, PLC programming, circuit theory/electronics, robotics, and safety standards—geared to roles like Instrumentation/Control Systems Technician and Process Control Technician.
- Format & location: On‑campus; Poplarville campus; Fall start; Associate in Applied Science.
These institutions ensure students gain practical experience and knowledge to succeed in refinery operations.
Course Content and Structure
Refinery operator training programs in Mississippi cover essential topics, including:
- Oil Refinery Operations: Teaches refining processes, equipment maintenance, and product storage.
- Electrical Safety: Covers grounding techniques, protective gear, and safe work practices to prevent electrical hazards.
- Process Systems and Instrumentation: Focuses on monitoring and controlling refinery processes.
- Safety and Environmental Procedures: Ensures compliance with industry regulations and workplace safety standards.
Courses include classroom instruction and hands-on training, preparing students for real-world refinery jobs.
Career Opportunities After Training
Graduates of refinery operator programs find jobs in the energy sector. The demand for operators is increasing due to retirements and industry growth. Job roles include:
- Entry-level refinery technicians
- Process operators
- Safety coordinators
- Maintenance technicians
Mississippi is expected to see a slight increase in refinery operator employment over the next decade. Although growth is minimal, steady annual openings will continue to provide reliable opportunities for those entering 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 Salaries in Mississippi
| 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 |
Certification and Degree Options
Many training programs offer certifications and degrees. Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College provides an Associate of Applied Science degree in Process Operations Technology. Graduates can also earn the NOCTI National Certification, a key qualification for refinery jobs.
Internship and Practical Experience
Internships provide hands-on experience with refinery equipment and safety procedures. Students gain practical skills in process operations and equipment monitoring, which often lead to full-time job offers.
Chevron – Pascagoula Refinery — internships for Process/Operations students.
Chevron offer annual internships and scholarships so students can receive real‑world experience, tied to Process Operations/Instrumentation programs at MGCCC.
Financial Assistance and Support
Financial aid options help students afford refinery operator training. Available assistance includes:
- Scholarships for process technology students
- Federal grants and loans
- Workforce development funding
These financial resources make training accessible to more students.
Application Process
Applying for refinery operator programs is straightforward. Many schools offer rolling admissions, allowing students to start at different times. Requirements typically include:
- High school diploma or GED
- Basic computer skills
- Enrollment application
Some programs offer workforce development support to help applicants navigate the process.
Local Refineries and Job Market in Mississippi
Mississippi has a strong refinery job market. The state is home to several major refineries, including:
- Chevron Pascagoula Refinery: Located in Jackson County, this refinery is Chevron’s most significant U.S. refinery and a key player in Mississippi’s energy sector.
- Ergon Refining, Inc.: Based in Vicksburg, this refinery processes crude oil from Mississippi and other sources.
- Hunt Refining Company: Located in Sandersville, this facility processes crude oil from local and international sources.
These refineries offer employment opportunities for trained refinery operators. The state’s oil and gas industry continues to expand, increasing demand for skilled professionals in refinery operations.
Student Success Stories
Graduates from Mississippi’s refinery training programs secure stable jobs in the energy industry. Many find employment at local refineries, applying the skills gained during training. Internship experiences help students transition smoothly into full-time positions.
Mississippi’s refinery operator training programs prepare students for careers in the energy sector. These programs cover essential topics like safety, process operations, and equipment maintenance. With strong job prospects and financial aid options, these programs provide a valuable pathway to stable employment.