Top Refinery Operator Training Programs in Oklahoma
Refinery operator training programs in Oklahoma provide essential skills for those seeking careers in the oil refining industry. The state is home to major refineries, including facilities operated by Phillips 66, Valero, and HollyFrontier, creating a strong demand for trained professionals.
Institutions such as Clark Community College and Southern Tech offer structured programs to meet industry needs, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for refinery operations.
Refinery Operator Training Overview
Oklahoma offers specialized training programs focused on both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience. These programs teach safe and efficient refinery operations, preparing students for industry roles.
Institutions like Clark Community College offer structured courses that combine online learning with practical training. Graduates receive industry-recognized certifications, improving job opportunities in the oil refinery sector.
Key Training Components
Refinery operations training covers core topics such as:
- Process instrumentation and control
- Pump operations
- Equipment monitoring
- Safety procedures
- Hydrocarbon processing
Experienced instructors lead courses with hands-on training to ensure students gain practical skills.
Major Refineries in Oklahoma
Oklahoma is home to several significant petroleum refineries that contribute to the state’s substantial oil industry. These include:
| Refinery Name | Location | Operator | Capacity (barrels per day) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ardmore Refinery | Ardmore | Valero | 86,000 |
| Ponca City Refinery | Ponca City | Phillips 66 | 200,000 |
| Tulsa Refinery (East & West) | Tulsa | HF Sinclair | 155,300 |
| Wynnewood Refinery | Wynnewood | CVR Energy | 70,000 |
These refineries require skilled operators to maintain production efficiency and ensure smooth operations. Oklahoma training programs are designed to meet the specific needs of these facilities, preparing graduates for roles in refinery operations.
Leading Training Institutions
Northern Oklahoma College — Process Technology (A.A.S.)
- Address: 1220 E Grand Ave, Tonkawa, OK 74653, United States
- Tel: +1 580-628-6200
An associate‑level pathway into front‑line process operations, grounded in refining and chemical‑processing principles, unit operations, safety and environmental compliance, and troubleshooting—developed with major petrochemical partners.
Program highlights
- Degree: Associate in Applied Science in Process Technology.
- Core focus: Foundations in refining/chemical processing, operating a unit, safety & environmental regulations, and systems troubleshooting.
- Intake: Program starts each Fall; space is limited and applications are accepted until March 15.
- Industry connection & support: Built in partnership with ConocoPhillips, BP, Sunoco, Valero, Sinclair; scholarships include the Phillips 66 Process Technology Scholarship Fund and Koch Fertilizer support.
Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology (OSUIT) — Power Plant Technology (A.A.S.)
- Address: 1801 E 4th St, Okmulgee, OK 74447, United States
- Tel: +1 918-293-4678
In‑person training that shows how large plants run—from water systems and circuit design to reading critical diagrams—backed by hands‑on labs and visits to nearby power plants; graduates move into operator and controls roles across the energy sector.
Program highlights
- Degree & site: A.A.S. in Power Plant Technology at OSUIT (Okmulgee).
- Learning model: Hands‑on laboratory work plus field visits to local power plants.
- Skill set: Plant systems understanding (e.g., water systems, circuit design) and interpreting critical diagrams used in operating facilities.
- Career paths noted: Power plant operator, instrumentation & controls technician, maintenance technician.
Course Structure
Refinery training programs balance classroom learning and hands-on experience. Key subjects include:
- System process management
- Flow rate, temperature, and pressure monitoring
- Pump and valve operations
- Electrical safety and process instrumentation
- Industrial mathematics and physics
Programs emphasize problem-solving and communication skills essential for career growth in the oil industry.
Certification and Career Advancement
Completing a refinery operator program leads to certification and verifying knowledge and skills. Certified operators have better job prospects and higher earning potential.
Graduates receive job search support, including resume-building and interview preparation. Many programs also connect students with apprenticeship opportunities.
Financial Assistance and Enrollment Support
Financial aid options include:
- Accelerating Independence Scholarship (full tuition for eligible students in Tulsa)
- Oklahoma Tuition Aid Grant (OTAG) for Pell-eligible students
- Tulsa Tech Education Foundation scholarships
- Veteran education benefits through the Oklahoma Department of Veteran Affairs
Advisors assist with enrollment and financial aid applications, ensuring students receive necessary support.
Job Prospects and Career Growth
Refinery operators enjoy stable employment, earning between $13 and $20 per hour. Experienced operators can earn up to $35 per hour.
Oklahoma is projected to see moderate growth in refinery operator employment over the next decade. With one of the larger workforces in the country, the state will continue to offer strong career opportunities supported by a high number of annual openings.
- Employment (2022): 2,100 employees
- Projected employment (2032): 2,170 employees
- Projected growth (2022–2032): 3%
- Projected annual job openings (2022–2032): 200
Apprenticeships allow students to earn while they learn, gaining real-world experience. Career progression includes opportunities in safety management and environmental compliance.
Refinery Operator Salaries in Oklahoma
| Area | Mean Hourly Wage | Mean annual wage | Hourly wage 10th percentile | Hourly wage 25th percentile | Hourly wage 75th percentile | Hourly wage 90th percentile |
| Oklahoma | $43.20 | $89,850 | $34.49 | $38.65 | $49.43 | $52.97 |
| Oklahoma City, OK | $39.80 | $82,790 | $29.97 | $37.81 | $42.59 | $46.44 |
| Tulsa, OK | $52.97 | $110,180 | $37.72 | $42.59 | $52.97 | $52.97 |
Flexible Learning Options
Many programs offer both online and in-person classes. Asynchronous learning options allow students to study at their own pace. This flexibility benefits working professionals and those with busy schedules.
Start Your Training Today
Institutions like Clark Community College and Southern Tech offer comprehensive training for refinery operators. With financial aid, flexible schedules, and strong job prospects, now is the time to start your career in refinery operations.