Operator - refinery operations

At Viva Energy, we play a critical role in supplying the energy that keeps Australia moving. Our Geelong Refinery is one of Australia's most important petrochemical facilities, processing crude oil into a wide range of fuels and products that support industry, transport, aviation, and everyday life.
We are seeking experienced and safety-focused Operators to join our team. This is an exciting opportunity to work within a complex, high-hazard processing environment where safety, operational excellence and teamwork are at the core of everything we do.
Key Responsibilities
As an Operator, you will be responsible for the safe, reliable and efficient operation of refinery processing units and associated equipment. Working as part of a shift-based operations team, you will monitor plant performance, conduct field operations, respond to process upsets and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
You will play a key role in ensuring our refinery operates safely, efficiently and in compliance with all regulatory and operational requirements.
Monitor and operate refinery process units and equipment.
Conduct routine plant inspections and field rounds.
Start-up, shut-down and isolate plant equipment in accordance with operating procedures.
Monitor process conditions and respond to abnormal operating situations.
Participate in permit-to-work, isolation and lockout/tagout activities.
Support maintenance activities through plant preparation and reinstatement.
Identify and report safety hazards, operational risks and improvement opportunities.
Contribute to incident investigations and continuous improvement initiatives.
Maintain accurate operational logs and shift handover documentation.
Work collaboratively with Operations, Maintenance and Technical teams to optimise plant performance.
About you
We are interested in hearing from candidates who have experience operating within major hazard facilities or other complex industrial processing environments.
Essential Experience
Previous experience in refinery operations, oil & gas, petrochemical processing, chemical manufacturing, LNG, mining processing, or similar heavy industrial environments.
Strong commitment to safety and process safety principles.
Experience working within highly regulated and safety-critical environments.
Ability to understand and follow operational procedures and work instructions.
Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills.
Effective communication and teamwork capabilities.
Willingness to work a rotating shift roster.
Desired Qualifications & Experience
Certificate III or IV in Process Plant Operations, Chemical Operations, Engineering Production Systems, or related discipline.
Experience working within a Major Hazard Facility (MHF).
Knowledge of permit-to-work systems and isolation procedures.
Exposure to distributed control systems (DCS) and control room operations.
Understanding of risk management, operational integrity and process safety management systems.
What We Offer
Opportunity to work within one of Australia's largest and most complex refining operations.
Competitive remuneration and shift allowances.
Ongoing training and career development opportunities.
A strong safety and operational excellence culture.
Access to employee wellbeing and support programs.
The opportunity to contribute to Australia's energy future.

Employment type
Full-time

Work arrangement
No