Petroleum Pump System Operators, Refinery Operators, and Gaugers
Petroleum pump system operators, refinery operators, and gaugers control equipment that processes crude oil into usable products at refineries and storage facilities. They monitor manifold and pumping systems, measure oil quality and quantity in storage tanks, and regulate oil flow into pipelines. Work takes place in refineries, petroleum terminals, and pipeline stations.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against petroleum pump system operators, refinery operators, and gaugers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week includes monitoring control panels and gauges to track temperature, pressure, and flow rates. Operators collect samples from storage tanks and perform tests on oil quality. They adjust valve settings to regulate fluid movement through pipelines and between tanks. Shift work is common, including nights and weekends. Tasks involve routine inspections, equipment maintenance checks, and detailed record-keeping of operations and measurements.
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 do well in this work if you prefer structured environments with clear procedures and measurable results. You're drawn to hands-on technical roles where attention to detail matters, and you're comfortable learning equipment operation through training and repetition. You work well following established processes and troubleshooting mechanical systems.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alaska | $106,780 | $124,530 | $167,880 | 370 |
| Louisiana | $84,110 | $106,640 | $108,420 | 3,490 |
| Utah | $83,280 | $105,980 | $106,050 | 600 |
| Ohio | $85,350 | $105,150 | $107,520 | 800 |
| New Jersey | $104,440 | $104,540 | $104,540 | 420 |
| Washington | $88,410 | $103,620 | $105,640 | 930 |
| California | $96,810 | $103,250 | $119,200 | 3,360 |
| Illinois | $101,310 | $102,890 | $111,370 | 1,070 |
| Minnesota | $99,910 | $101,910 | $128,520 | 550 |
| Kansas | $90,620 | $101,880 | $107,260 | 950 |
| Wyoming | $87,080 | $100,350 | $114,040 | 560 |
| Montana | $78,900 | $98,310 | $103,200 | 550 |
All 42 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Petroleum Apprentice - Level 1 (CPA) — National Petroleum Management Association
- Petroleum Engineering Certification (PEC) — Society of Petroleum 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 petroleum pump system operators, refinery operators, and gaugers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 51-8093.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.