Refinery Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of industrial advancement, the focus on refinery managers has never been greater.

As the energy sector evolves, the need for proficient leaders who can operate, improve, and protect our refinery operations escalates.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a refinery manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to grasp the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the complex dynamics of refinery management,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we reveal a customizable refinery manager job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Refinery Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Refinery Managers are responsible for overseeing the operations of oil and gas refineries, ensuring that production runs smoothly, efficiently and meets safety standards.

They typically have a background in chemical or petroleum engineering and must have a deep understanding of the refining processes and technologies.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Managing daily operations of the refinery including overseeing personnel, production and efficiency to ensure smooth and profitable operations.
• Developing and implementing refinery policies and safety procedures and ensuring they are adhered to.
• Monitoring the performance of the refinery and making necessary changes to improve productivity, efficiency and quality.
• Ensuring compliance with local, state and federal regulations in terms of safety and environmental standards.
• Overseeing the training and development of staff to ensure they have the necessary skills and understanding of safety procedures.
• Coordinating and planning maintenance and repairs to minimize downtime and ensure the refinery operates at optimal capacity.
• Managing budgets, cost and expenditures associated with refinery operations.
• Building and maintaining relationships with vendors, contractors and stakeholders.
• Identifying potential risks and implementing risk management strategies.
• Keeping up to date with advancements in refining processes and technologies to improve refinery operations.

 

Refinery Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a dedicated and driven Refinery Manager to oversee all operations of our refinery.

The Refinery Manager is responsible for ensuring the safe and efficient production of products such as oil, gas, and petroleum.

Responsibilities include planning and coordinating production schedules, managing staff and resources, ensuring compliance with industry standards, and initiating corrective actions when necessary.

Our ideal candidate has a strong background in chemical engineering or a related field, with several years of managerial experience in a refinery setting.

 

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement operational procedures to ensure optimal productivity and performance of the refinery
• Monitor operations to identify and resolve health, safety, and environmental concerns
• Ensure compliance with industry standards, governmental regulations, and company policies
• Oversee staff recruitment, training, evaluation, and development
• Develop budgets, approve expenditures, and manage resources effectively
• Coordinate with other departments to optimize refinery operations
• Analyze performance data and implement improvements to enhance efficiency
• Manage the maintenance, repair, and replacement of equipment and machinery
• Engage in negotiations with suppliers, customers, and other stakeholders

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Refinery Manager, Production Manager, or similar role
• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field
• Strong knowledge of refinery operations, safety protocols, and regulatory compliance
• Excellent leadership and team management skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work under pressure and make critical decisions

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Refinery Manager
• Work Environment: Work is primarily conducted on-site in a refinery setting. Some travel may be required for meetings, site visits, and inspections.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Operations or equivalent.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: Dependent on experience and location
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Refinery Manager Do?

Refinery Managers are typically employed in industries such as oil and gas or chemical processing where they oversee the operations of facilities that convert raw materials into products.

Their primary responsibility is to ensure that the refinery operates efficiently, safely, and meets both the production and budget targets.

They are involved in various aspects of refinery operations including process optimization, equipment maintenance, product quality, and environmental compliance.

Refinery Managers also coordinate and supervise teams of operators, engineers, and other staff.

They are responsible for personnel management tasks such as training, scheduling, and performance evaluation.

In addition, they are required to develop and implement policies and procedures, ensure compliance with safety regulations, and address any issues or emergencies that may arise.

Furthermore, Refinery Managers work closely with other departments such as finance, human resources, and supply chain to ensure that the overall business objectives are met.

They also liaise with external stakeholders including suppliers, customers, and regulatory agencies.

Their role requires them to continuously monitor technological developments and market trends in order to identify opportunities for improving refinery operations and profitability.

 

Refinery Manager Qualifications and Skills

Refinery Managers need a mix of technical expertise, managerial skills, and a thorough understanding of refinery operations and industry regulations.

These include:

• Deep understanding of refinery operations and maintenance practices to ensure smooth operation, timely maintenance, and proper troubleshooting of any issues that arise.
• Managerial skills to supervise a large team, ensuring all tasks are carried out safely, efficiently, and within budget constraints.
• Strong knowledge of industry safety regulations and environmental laws to ensure all operations meet or exceed required standards.
• Problem-solving skills to quickly identify and address any production issues or inefficiencies in the refinery processes.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively coordinate with team members, suppliers, clients, and regulatory authorities.
• Strategic planning and forecasting skills to prepare and implement effective operational plans and budgets.
• Technical knowledge in chemical engineering or related fields to understand the intricacies of the refinery processes and make informed decisions.
• Physical stamina and resilience to cope with the demanding nature of the job which may include long hours and high-stress situations.
• Decisive leadership skills to make critical operational decisions under pressure.

 

Refinery Manager Experience Requirements

Refinery Managers are often required to have a significant amount of industry experience, usually at least 10 to 15 years in the refining industry.

This experience can be gained through a variety of roles such as Process Engineer, Operations Supervisor, or Maintenance Manager within a refinery.

Typically, a background in chemical or mechanical engineering is needed, often obtained through a bachelor’s degree in these fields, and sometimes followed by a master’s degree in business or engineering management.

Entry-level candidates may start in technical roles or as junior engineers, gaining hands-on experience in the operations of a refinery, such as process control, quality assurance, and equipment maintenance.

Candidates with 5 to 7 years of experience could progress to supervisory roles where they oversee a team, manage projects, and are responsible for safety compliance and meeting production targets.

Those with more than 10 years of experience, and a solid track record in refinery operations and safety performance, would be considered ready for a managerial role.

They may have experience in leading large teams, dealing with regulatory agencies, and making strategic decisions to optimize refinery operations.

Moreover, refinery managers are expected to constantly improve their knowledge and stay updated with the latest technology, industry trends, and regulations.

As such, continuous learning through workshops, seminars, or certification programs can be an additional requirement.

 

Refinery Manager Education and Training Requirements

Refinery Managers typically have a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering, mechanical engineering or a related field.

In addition to this, they need substantial experience in the oil and gas industry, usually a minimum of 5 years, before they can manage a refinery.

The role requires a strong understanding of refinery operations, safety protocols, and regulations.

A background in project management is also beneficial.

Some positions may require Refinery Managers to have a master’s degree in business administration (MBA) or an equivalent qualification, especially for those aspiring to take on higher managerial or executive roles.

Refinery Managers may also benefit from obtaining certifications from recognized industry bodies such as the American Institute of Chemical Engineers or the Project Management Institute.

These certifications, although not mandatory, can demonstrate a candidate’s commitment to their professional development and their understanding of the latest industry practices and regulations.

Training in safety procedures, emergency response, and leadership are also important for Refinery Managers, as they are responsible for the safety of their team and the efficient operation of the refinery.

Continuous learning and staying updated with technological advancements in refinery operations is also critical in this role.

 

Refinery Manager Salary Expectations

A Refinery Manager earns an average salary of $114,675 (USD) per year.

However, the actual salary can vary significantly based on factors such as the size of the refinery, the manager’s level of experience and qualifications, and the geographical location of the refinery.

 

Refinery Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Refinery Manager need?

Refinery Managers need to have excellent leadership and decision-making skills to manage the entire operation of a refinery.

They should also possess a deep understanding of process improvement, budgeting, safety regulations, and equipment maintenance.

Strong communication skills are also required to liaise with different departments and stakeholders.

 

Do Refinery Managers need a degree?

Yes, a Refinery Manager typically needs a bachelor’s degree in chemical or mechanical engineering, or a related field.

Some positions may require a master’s degree in business administration (MBA) or relevant work experience in the oil and gas industry.

 

What should you look for in a Refinery Manager resume?

Look for a strong background in refinery operations, including positions of increasing responsibility.

They should have experience in managing teams, budgeting, and ensuring safety compliance.

Their resume should also indicate that they have the necessary engineering degree and any additional qualifications, such as certificates in safety management.

 

What qualities make a good Refinery Manager?

A good Refinery Manager is someone who can lead a diverse team and make critical decisions under pressure.

They should be committed to safety and environmental compliance, and have the ability to optimize refinery operations for efficiency and profitability.

Strong communication and negotiation skills are also essential qualities to manage relationships with suppliers, regulatory agencies, and other stakeholders.

 

What are the main challenges faced by a Refinery Manager?

Refinery Managers deal with a variety of challenges.

These include managing the health and safety of the workforce, ensuring environmental compliance, maintaining equipment, managing costs, and responding to changes in the global energy market.

Additionally, they must also maintain good relationships with local communities, regulatory agencies, and other stakeholders.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve taken a deep dive into the world of a refinery manager.

And guess what?

It’s not just about managing operations and personnel.

It’s about engineering the future of energy, one barrel at a time.

With our go-to refinery manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re all set to make your mark.

But why stop there?

Go even further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating precise job listings or sharpening your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every barrel refined is a part of the bigger energy picture.

Let’s fuel that future. Together.

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