Automotive and Watercraft Service Attendants
Automotive and watercraft service attendants maintain and fuel vehicles and boats at gas stations, marinas, dealerships, and service centers. They pump fuel, check fluids, change oil, replace wipers and batteries, and handle customer payments. The role combines customer service with hands-on mechanical work.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against automotive and watercraft service attendants and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves greeting customers, pumping fuel, and checking vehicle systems like oil levels and tire pressure. Service attendants perform routine maintenance such as oil changes, replacing windshield wiper blades, refilling antifreeze, and installing accessories. They handle cash and card payments, maintain equipment, keep work areas clean, and may assist with minor repairs. Tasks vary based on the facility type and customer needs.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCE. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely enjoy working with your hands and prefer concrete, practical tasks over abstract problem-solving. You're organized and detail-oriented, comfortable following established procedures and maintaining records, and you prefer straightforward work environments with clear expectations rather than complex decision-making.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | $29,300 | $43,630 | $56,330 | 270 |
| California | $37,640 | $41,770 | $45,310 | 10,190 |
| District of Columbia | $36,850 | $41,750 | $46,910 | — |
| Rhode Island | $41,160 | $41,690 | $42,360 | 120 |
| Connecticut | $36,500 | $41,600 | $45,210 | 420 |
| Alaska | $36,530 | $41,590 | $43,320 | 280 |
| New Hampshire | $36,640 | $40,030 | $45,810 | 200 |
| Washington | $36,190 | $39,440 | $44,640 | 2,620 |
| Montana | $36,200 | $38,700 | $44,440 | 460 |
| Vermont | $36,740 | $38,700 | $41,710 | 170 |
| Colorado | $36,690 | $38,370 | $43,310 | 2,980 |
| Missouri | $35,840 | $38,130 | $47,250 | 1,150 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Level I Machine Lubrication Technician (MLT) — International Council for Machinery Lubrication
- Certified Lubrication Specialist (CLS) — Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against automotive and watercraft service attendants and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 53-6031.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.