Oil refiner

What does an oil refinery operator do? – Tasks and work environment

An oil refinery operator works with monitoring and operating process plants within the chemical industry, where crude oil is transformed into finished products such as gasoline, diesel, and other chemicals. The work involves controlling automated processes, adjusting machinery and instruments, and ensuring production meets quality and safety standards. Oil refinery operators often work in shifts, and the physical work environment can be demanding with high noise levels, chemical exposure, and the need for protective equipment. Collaboration with technicians, laboratory staff, and engineers is common to quickly address any operational issues.

Salary development over time

The profession of oil refinery operators has experienced steady and positive salary growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 37,500 SEK, which increased to 39 900 SEK in 2023 and further to 40 500 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of about 8% over a three-year period, which is slightly higher than the average for many other process industry professions. This development can partly be explained by increased demand for operational expertise within the energy sector and the industry’s need for technically skilled personnel with a focus on safety. Technological innovations and environmental requirements have also contributed to raising skill and salary levels for oil refinery operators.

Oil refinery operator salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 40 500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 37,500 SEK/month (women), 39,300 SEK/month (men)
• Highest salary: 38,600 SEK/month (women), 42,200 SEK/month (men)
• Hourly wage: 243 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Women earn 92% of what men do
• Regional differences: Salary levels vary slightly between regions, but higher wages are often found in areas with larger refineries and higher demand for process personnel.

Education and qualifications

To work as an oil refinery operator, a high school education in technology or industry is usually required, often complemented with post-secondary courses or training in process technology. Practical experience in similar process industries is highly meritorious, and many employers offer internal trainee programs for new hires. Certifications in safety and environmental areas are often mandatory, along with a good understanding of control systems and automation.

• High school education: Industrial technical programs, 3 years
• Post-secondary education: YH training in process technology, 2 years (meritorious but not always mandatory)
• Certifications: Safety and environmental training, often on-site
• Internship/trainee: Introductory programs or practical periods are often offered
• Prerequisites: Technical interest, good physics, and teamwork skills

Common benefits and compensations

Oil refinery operators are often offered benefits such as shift allowances, overtime pay, wellness contributions, and sometimes bonuses linked to production or safety targets. Occupational pension schemes, insurance coverage, and opportunities for further training are other common employment benefits.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as an oil refinery operator is moderate, but since the industry demands high technical competence and safety awareness, the selection process is often thorough. A challenge is the rapid technological development, where new control systems and digitalization require continuous skills updating. Shift work and sometimes physically demanding environments can affect personal balance and require both physical and mental resilience. Safety is a central aspect and a vital part of daily routines, meaning carefulness and risk awareness must always be prioritized.

Tips for those aspiring to become an oil refinery operator

To succeed as an oil refinery operator, it’s good to combine a technical interest with carefulness and a strong sense of responsibility. Being solution-oriented helps with troubleshooting and quick decision-making in operational environments, while teamwork skills facilitate communication with colleagues and technicians. Flexibility is important due to shift work and changing tasks. Staying updated on safety procedures and new technology provides a competitive edge and demonstrates engagement. Finally, patience and stress resistance are valuable qualities, especially in emergency situations or during periods of high workload.

Key facts about oil refinery operators

• Education level: High school or YH training in technology/industry
• Work environment: Shift work in process plants with high safety requirements
• Typical employment type: Privately employed salaried worker
• Demand: Approximately 481 job openings in Sweden
• Gender distribution: Men dominate the profession, but the proportion of women is increasing

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an oil refinery operator, there are good opportunities to advance to roles such as shift supervisor, operations technician, or process developer. Some choose to specialize in maintenance, automation, or environmental work, while others move into training or safety management. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts, it’s difficult to give an exact assessment of future prospects for oil refinery operators, as the profession is part of a broader occupational group with limited data. However, the number of available positions indicates stable demand, especially in regions with larger refineries. Skills in digitalization and environmental technology are expected to become increasingly important for future career opportunities within the industry.

Frequently asked questions about oil refinery operators

• What does an oil refinery operator earn?
  - An oil refinery operator has an average salary of 40 500 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience and region.
• How does one become an oil refinery operator?
  - The most common route is a high school education in technology or industry, sometimes supplemented with YH training in process technology and on-the-job practical training.
• What are the working hours for an oil refinery operator?
  - Most work in shifts, which may include night shifts and weekends.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 92% of what men do within the profession.
• What development opportunities are available?
  - Advancement to shift supervisor, operations technician, process developer, or specialization in maintenance and environmental areas is possible.
• What is the job market like for oil refinery operators?
  - There are approximately 481 job openings in the profession, mainly in regions with larger refineries.
• What are the most important qualities for an oil refinery operator?
  - Attention to detail, technical interest, responsibility, and stress resistance are particularly important.