Gas Compressor and Gas Pumping Station Operators
Gas compressor and pumping station operators run and maintain compressors powered by steam, gas, electric motors, or internal combustion engines. They transmit, compress, or recover gases like natural gas, nitrogen, hydrogen, and butane. Work takes place at refineries, pipelines, processing plants, and utility stations.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against gas compressor and gas pumping station operators and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
Operators monitor gauges and instruments to track pressure, temperature, and flow rates throughout shifts. They start and stop equipment, adjust valves and controls, and perform routine maintenance like checking oil levels and cleaning filters. When problems arise, they troubleshoot mechanical issues, keep detailed logs of operations, and coordinate with supervisors or maintenance crews to address equipment failures or safety concerns.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. 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 tend to prefer hands-on technical work with clear procedures and measurable results. You're detail-oriented about following protocols and regulations, comfortable working around industrial equipment, and practical in your approach to solving mechanical problems.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kansas | $107,080 | $107,730 | $107,730 | 50 |
| Alaska | $74,160 | $106,440 | $134,860 | 60 |
| Indiana | $98,300 | $100,280 | $101,640 | 40 |
| Ohio | $82,310 | $85,930 | $96,220 | 120 |
| Montana | $83,730 | $83,750 | $92,840 | 100 |
| Oklahoma | $64,760 | $82,150 | $106,470 | 140 |
| Texas | $67,980 | $82,120 | $91,610 | 1,350 |
| Louisiana | $62,470 | $79,970 | $80,930 | 60 |
| Michigan | $56,900 | $78,240 | $101,890 | 40 |
| Colorado | $58,570 | $76,200 | $82,910 | — |
| West Virginia | $45,880 | $65,050 | $81,070 | 200 |
| Virginia | $55,180 | $64,990 | $79,680 | 40 |
All 20 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Pipeline Construction Inspector (API 116) — American Petroleum Institute
- Qualification of Ultrasonic Testing Examiners (Phased Array) (QUTE (PA)) — American Petroleum Institute
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against gas compressor and gas pumping station operators and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 53-7071.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.