Pump Operators

Also Called: Day Light Relief Operator, Outside Operator, Pipeline Operator, Pumper

What Pump Operators do

Tend, control, or operate power-driven, stationary, or portable pumps and manifold systems to transfer gases, oil, other liquids, slurries, or powdered materials to and from various vessels and processes.

  • Monitor gauges and flowmeters and inspect equipment to ensure that tank levels, temperatures, chemical amounts, and pressures are at specified levels, reporting abnormalities as necessary.
  • Record operating data such as products and quantities pumped, stocks used, gauging results, and operating times.
  • Communicate with other workers, using signals, radios, or telephones, to start and stop flows of materials or substances.
Industry Areas:

Automotive & Machine Repair Transportation

Training Program Areas:

Heavy Equipment Operations • OCT-Only Automotive & Machine Repair • OCT-Only Transportation • Roustabout • Stationary Engineering

Expand For Additional Details

Work Context

  • Outdoors, Exposed to Weather
  • Sounds, Noise Levels Are Distracting or Uncomfortable
  • Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets
  • Face-to-Face Discussions
  • Contact With Others

Tools

  • Water pumps
  • Concrete pump truck
  • Water meters
  • Gas generators
  • Two way radios

Technology

Spreadsheet software
Microsoft Excel
Facilities management software
Computerized maintenance management system CMMS
Office suite software
Microsoft Office

The Education & Training You Need

Skills

  • Operation Monitoring
  • Monitoring
  • Critical Thinking
  • Operation and Control
  • Active Listening

Knowledge

Safety and Government
public safety and security
Engineering and Technology
mechanical
computers and electronics
Manufactured or Agricultural Goods
manufacture and distribution of products
Arts and Humanities
English language

Education

  • 86% High school diploma or equivalent
  • 10% Associate's degree
  • 2% Post-secondary certificate

Experience

Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is usually needed. For example, a teller would benefit from experience working directly with the public.

What are your training options on the pathway to this occupation?

Are You a Good Fit?

Occupation Traits

  • Conventional (Organizer)
  • Investigative (Thinker)
  • Realistic (Doer)

Work Styles

  • Stress Tolerance
  • Dependability
  • Cooperation
  • Self Control
  • Adaptability/Flexibility
  • Attention to Detail

Values

  • Support
  • Independence
  • Relationships

Abilities

  • Verbal
  • Controlled Movement
  • Hand and Finger Use
  • Visual Understanding

This is what Pump Operators across the country typically make.

$17.45 / hour
$36,290 /year

Entry Level

$26.29 / hour
$54,690 /year

Median Level

$41.07 / hour
$85,430 /year

Experienced Level

Income information reflects a regional average.
Income information reflects a national average.

This career’s National Job Outlook is

Bright

Please be sure to verify the outlook of this occupation with your instructor.

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