What is a Refinery Turnaround Job?
A refinery turnaround job is a temporary position in which workers are hired to perform maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) tasks in a refinery. Refineries are complex facilities that convert crude oil into various petroleum products, such as gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel. Due to the nature of their operations, refineries require regular maintenance and repair work to ensure their safe and efficient operation. A refinery turnaround job is a way for refineries to bring in skilled workers to perform these necessary maintenance and repair tasks.
What Usually Do in This Position?
Refinery turnaround jobs can involve a wide variety of tasks, depending on the specific needs of the refinery. Some common tasks include:
- Inspecting and repairing equipment, such as pumps, valves, and pipes
- Cleaning and maintaining vessels, such as tanks and reactors
- Conducting non-destructive testing (NDT) to detect flaws and defects in equipment
- Installing and removing equipment, such as heat exchangers and distillation columns
- Conducting electrical and instrumentation work
- Managing and coordinating the work of contractors and other personnel
Top 5 Skills for Position
To be successful in a refinery turnaround job, workers need to have a range of skills and knowledge. Here are five important skills for this position:
- Technical expertise: Refinery turnaround jobs require workers to have a deep understanding of the equipment and processes used in refineries. This includes knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and instrumentation systems, as well as an understanding of safety regulations and industry standards.
- Problem-solving: Refinery turnaround workers must be able to diagnose and troubleshoot problems quickly and effectively. They must be able to identify the root cause of a problem and develop a solution that addresses it in a timely manner.
- Attention to detail: Refinery turnaround jobs often involve working with complex equipment and systems. Workers must be able to pay close attention to details and ensure that all work is performed accurately and to the highest standards.
- Communication skills: Refinery turnaround workers must be able to communicate effectively with other workers, contractors, and supervisors. They must be able to explain technical details and procedures clearly and concisely.
- Teamwork: Refinery turnaround jobs often involve working as part of a team. Workers must be able to collaborate effectively with others and work together to achieve common goals.
How to Become This Type of Specialist
To become a refinery turnaround specialist, workers typically need to have a combination of education and experience. Here are some steps you can take to become a specialist in this field:
- Obtain a relevant degree: Many refinery turnaround specialists have a degree in engineering, mechanical or electrical technology, or a related field. This can provide a strong foundation of technical knowledge that can be applied to refinery work.
- Gain experience: Refinery turnaround jobs typically require several years of experience in a related field, such as maintenance, repair, or engineering. Look for opportunities to gain experience in these areas.
- Obtain certifications: Many certifications are available for workers in the refinery industry, such as the API 510 certification for pressure vessel inspectors. These certifications can demonstrate your expertise and increase your job prospects.
- Network and build relationships: Build relationships with other workers in the industry and attend industry events to meet new people and learn about new opportunities.
Average Salary
The average salary for a refinery turnaround worker varies depending on the specific job and location. According to data from Glassdoor, the average salary for a turnaround planner in the United States is around $100,000 per year. Other positions, such as turnaround manager or turnaround supervisor, can earn even higher salaries.
Roles and Types
There are a variety of roles and types of refinery turnaround jobs. Some common roles include:
- Turnaround planner: Responsible for planning and coordinating the work of contractors and other personnel during a refinery turnaround.
- Turnaround manager: Oversees the entire turnaround process, including planning, execution, and closeout.
- Turnaround supervisor: Manages the work of a team of workers during a refinery turnaround.
- Turnaround inspector: Conducts inspections and tests to ensure that equipment and systems are functioning properly.
- Turnaround coordinator: Coordinates the work of contractors and other personnel during a refinery turnaround.
Locations with the Most Popular Jobs in USA
Refinery turnaround jobs are available in many locations throughout the United States. Some of the most popular locations for these jobs include:
- Houston, Texas: Houston is home to a large number of refineries and is a hub for the oil and gas industry.
- Baton Rouge, Louisiana: Baton Rouge is home to several large refineries and chemical plants.
- Beaumont, Texas: Beaumont is another hub for the oil and gas industry and is home to several large refineries.
- Port Arthur, Texas: Port Arthur is home to several large refineries and is located near the Gulf of Mexico.
- California: California is home to several large refineries, particularly in the Los Angeles area.
What are the Typical Tools
Refinery turnaround workers typically use a variety of tools and equipment to perform their tasks. Some common tools include:
- Wrenches, pliers, and other hand tools for working on equipment
- Welding equipment for making repairs and modifications
- Non-destructive testing equipment, such as ultrasound and x-ray machines, for inspecting equipment
- Safety equipment, such as hard hats, safety glasses, and respirators, for working in hazardous environments
- Mobile cranes and other lifting equipment for moving heavy equipment and materials
In Conclusion
Refinery turnaround jobs are a vital part of the oil and gas industry. They provide skilled workers with opportunities to perform important maintenance and repair work in refineries throughout the United States. To be successful in this field, workers need to have a combination of technical expertise, problem-solving skills, attention to detail, communication skills, and teamwork abilities. With the right education, experience, and certifications, you can become a specialist in this field and enjoy a rewarding career in the oil and gas industry.