Petroleum Pump System Operator

Your Fit

Income

$98K

Preparation

Some

Growth

-2.3%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Petroleum Pump System Operator?

A Petroleum Pump System Operator manages systems and equipment used to regulate the flow of oil and gas from production wells to refineries and storage facilities. They ensure the efficient and safe operation of pumps, pipelines, and other related systems.

Sample job titles:

Gauger, Operator, Pumper, Refinery Operator

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Petroleum Pump System Operator.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Petroleum Pump System Operator earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) in 2024 was...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$60K per year	$78K per year	$98K per year	$105K per year	$113K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $48K above the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Petroleum Pump System Operator do?

Work environment

Operators typically work in oil fields, refineries, or pipeline locations. They work in both indoor and outdoor settings, often in remote areas. The job may involve shift work and can require working in challenging weather conditions.

Quick task list

Monitors the operation of petroleum pump systems.
Adjusts equipment and controls to regulate the flow and pressure of oil or gas.
Maintains and repairs pumps, compressors, and other equipment.
Monitors and ensures compliance with safety and environmental regulations.
Records data and maintains logs of operation activities.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Offshore Operations: Specializing in operating equipment on offshore oil rigs.
Pipeline Monitoring: Focusing on the transportation and flow of petroleum through pipelines.
Refinery Operations: Managing systems within petroleum refineries.
Wellhead Operations: Overseeing the equipment and operations at the source of oil or gas wells.
Maintenance and Repair: Specializing in the upkeep and repair of pump systems and equipment.

Description

Petroleum Pump System Operators are integral in the oil and gas industry, ensuring that petroleum products are moved efficiently and safely from extraction points to processing plants and storage facilities. Their role requires a solid understanding of mechanical systems and the ability to troubleshoot problems. Operators must be vigilant and responsive to changes in pressure, flow rates, and other system parameters, making adjustments as needed to maintain optimal performance.

Safety is a critical concern in this role, as the handling of petroleum products carries inherent risks. Operators must adhere to strict safety protocols and environmental regulations to prevent accidents and spills. The job also involves routine maintenance tasks to keep equipment running smoothly and prevent breakdowns.

For those with a mechanical aptitude and an interest in the energy sector, this occupation offers a challenging and rewarding career. It provides an opportunity to work with complex systems and play a key role in a vital industry.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Playing a crucial role in the energy supply chain.
Working with sophisticated mechanical systems.
Opportunities for problem-solving and continuous learning.
A sense of accomplishment in maintaining safe and efficient operations.

You might make a good Petroleum Pump System Operator if you are...

Mechanically inclined and interested in how complex systems operate.
Attentive to details and able to respond quickly to changing conditions.
Committed to safety and environmental stewardship.
Comfortable working in remote or outdoor settings.
Interested in a career in the energy sector with opportunities for growth.

Pros:

Essential role in a crucial industry.
Opportunities for advancement and specialization.
High responsibility and independence in daily tasks.

Cons:

Potential exposure to hazardous materials.
Work in remote locations and possibly challenging environmental conditions.
Requirement for shift work, including nights and weekends.

How to become a Petroleum Pump System Operator

Typical education

A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required. Technical training or an associate degree in petroleum technology or a related field can be beneficial. On-the-job training is also common in this occupation.

High school preparation

Courses:

Science, especially chemistry and physics, to understand basic principles.
Mathematics for calculations related to flow rates and pressures.
Technical and vocational courses, such as mechanics or industrial arts.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Science and engineering clubs to develop technical skills.
Internships or part-time work in mechanical or industrial settings.

Preparation after high school

Technical training programs in petroleum technology or mechanical systems.
Associate degree programs in petroleum engineering technology or related fields.
Certifications in specific equipment operation or safety protocols.
Apprenticeships or entry-level positions in the oil and gas industry for practical experience.

More resources

American Petroleum Institute (API) - Provides industry standards and training resources.
Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) - Offers educational and networking opportunities in the petroleum industry.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) - Resources on safety standards and regulations in the oil and gas sector.
Energy Institute - Offers information on various aspects of the energy industry, including oil and gas operations.

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