Top Refinery Operator Training Programs in Washington: Boost Your Career Today
This article explains the top training programs for refinery operators in Washington. It covers program details, key refineries, course content, and job opportunities.
Refinery Operator Training Programs in Washington
Training programs teach the skills needed for oil refining. These programs prepare students for entry-level jobs. They follow safety rules and meet industry standards.
Lower Columbia College (Longview) — Automation, Instrumentation & Robotics (AAS)
- Address: 1600 Maple St, Longview, WA 98632, United States
- Tel: +1 360-442-2322
Technical training for modern industrial plants, combining automation systems, industrial instrumentation, robotics, and equipment maintenance—skills that map directly to control‑room and field work in process operations.
Program highlights
- AAS degree (98 credits) designed for hands‑on troubleshooting, repair, and optimization of complex industrial systems.
- Core courses include Programmable Logic Controllers (IMIN 215), Process Technology Equipment (IMIN 230), Instrumentation Fundamentals (IMIN 240), and Advanced Instrumentation (IMIN 260), plus hydraulics, predictive maintenance, and robotics.
- Applied learning with a cooperative work experience component.
Perry Technical Institute (Yakima) — Instrumentation, Automation & Robotics Technology (2‑year)
- Address: 2011 W Washington Ave, Yakima, WA 98903, United States
- Tel: +1 509-453-0374
A hands‑on instrumentation and controls program that prepares technicians for industries such as energy, manufacturing, mining and refining. Training centers on the measurement, control, and automation systems operators rely on to keep processes on target.
Program highlights
- Two‑year, in‑person program focused on plant instrumentation and industrial automation.
- Deep practice with PLCs, transmitters, transducers, recorders and controllers to simulate real control techniques.
- Build operator‑adjacent skills: monitor, install, troubleshoot, repair, and calibrate controls for temperature, level, flow, and pressure.
Why Choose Washington
Washington has major refineries that create a steady need for skilled operators. The oil sector values safe practices and technical skills. Training programs help meet these needs and prepare students for work.
Key Refineries in Washington
Washington has two primary refineries. The Marathon Anacortes Refinery processes about 210,000 barrels daily, and the BP Cherry Point Refinery processes around 250,000 barrels daily. Both facilities offer hands-on training and create job opportunities for new operators.
Course Content and Structure
Courses cover safety rules, instrument use, and equipment management. They mix theory with practical training. Students study oil refining tasks and safety procedures. They receive guides, manuals, and documents that can be printed for easy reference.
Course Schedule
Students set their own pace and have one year to complete the course. An orientation session explains the course layout and expectations.
Job Opportunities and Market Insights
Washington offers many entry-level jobs for refinery operators. Salaries range from $25,000 to $95,000 per year. Employees get benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. Employers also provide resume help and career advice.
Washington is projected to see strong growth in refinery operator employment over the next decade. With a solid workforce size and a notable percentage increase, the state offers promising opportunities supported by consistent annual openings.
- Employment (2022): 950 employees
- Projected employment (2032): 1,060 employees
- Projected growth (2022–2032): 12%
- Projected annual job openings (2022–2032): 110
Refinery Operator Salaries in Washington
| Area | Mean Hourly Wage | Mean annual wage | Hourly wage 10th percentile | Hourly wage 25th percentile | Hourly wage 75th percentile | Hourly wage 90th percentile |
| Washington | $47.93 | $99,690 | $36.81 | $40.04 | $49.36 | $53.49 |
| Bellingham, WA | $46.56 | $96,850 | $40.04 | $41.20 | $49.36 | $49.36 |
| Kennewick-Richland, WA | $47.10 | $97,960 | $22.73 | $37.52 | $47.10 | $47.10 |
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA | $47.57 | $98,950 | $31.53 | $40.54 | $56.05 | $56.55 |
Certification and Compliance
Students must complete a training program to earn a certificate. The certificate shows that they understand safety rules and process controls. The certification process includes evaluation and assessment. High-hazard facilities require operators to hold specific credentials. The required percentage of skilled operators increased from 20% in 2021 to 60% in 2024.
Financial Assistance and Enrollment
Students can receive scholarships and federal aid — programs like the Marathon Petroleum Scholars Program help with costs. Applicants must provide academic records and work history. They apply with the required documents.
Support and Career Growth
Students get help from advisors and industry professionals. Networking creates chances for internships and jobs. Graduates can advance to higher positions by taking more courses and gaining experience. Continuous learning keeps operators updated on new practices.
Washington offers many opportunities for aspiring refinery operators. Training programs prepare students for safe work in oil refining. Enroll in these programs to start a career in the growing energy sector.