Wellhead Pumpers
Wellhead pumpers operate power pumps and related equipment at oil and gas wells to extract oil or gas from the ground. They work in oil fields, monitoring equipment performance, making adjustments, and performing maintenance to keep production flowing. The role requires mechanical skills and attention to operational details.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against wellhead pumpers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A wellhead pumper's week typically involves inspecting pumps and gauges, adjusting operating pressures and flow rates, and documenting production data. Routine maintenance tasks include checking fluid levels, greasing equipment, and replacing worn parts. Pumpers respond to equipment problems, troubleshoot malfunctions, and coordinate with other field staff. Work occurs outdoors in all weather conditions at well sites.
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'd likely succeed in this work if you prefer hands-on, practical tasks and enjoy following established procedures and guidelines. You're detail-oriented about equipment operation and maintenance, comfortable working independently at remote locations, and capable of learning mechanical systems through on-the-job training.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Dakota | $66,600 | $79,820 | $97,480 | 1,540 |
| New Mexico | $58,900 | $78,010 | $98,290 | 1,060 |
| Louisiana | $63,860 | $76,930 | $78,340 | 110 |
| Texas | $59,490 | $75,860 | $84,070 | 10,250 |
| Colorado | $61,510 | $72,700 | $80,170 | 370 |
| Arkansas | $30,830 | $64,650 | $74,950 | 90 |
| California | $56,500 | $64,430 | $72,310 | 160 |
| Mississippi | $52,600 | $62,560 | $76,110 | 80 |
| Kansas | $47,110 | $62,400 | $76,070 | 620 |
| Oklahoma | $51,760 | $61,380 | $72,620 | 770 |
| Utah | $50,430 | $59,970 | $75,530 | 130 |
| Montana | $48,720 | $57,830 | $78,010 | 90 |
All 19 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Pump Installer (CPI) — National Ground Water Association
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 wellhead pumpers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 53-7073.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.