Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a Pump Operator
What pump operators actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
What is a typical day like for a pump operator?
Drive the route. From there, the day usually includes run pumps, gauge tanks, and check wells. Full time, with on-call duty.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a pump operator working full time.
- Drive the route.
- Check the first well.
- Gauge tanks.
- Adjust a pump.
- Change a belt.
- Check for leaks.
- Enter production data.
Where pump operators work
Operators work outdoors at well sites, terminals and plants.
Hours and schedule
Full time, with on-call duty.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Run pumps
- Gauge tanks
- Check wells
- Do basic maintenance
- Monitor flow
- Record production
- Report problems
Tools you’ll use every day
- Pumps
- Gauge tapes
- Gas detectors
- Tablets
- Hand tools
- Trucks
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Independent work
- Good pay
- Outdoor work
- Company truck in field roles
What’s hard
- Remote driving
- Weather
- On-call duty
- Industry cycles
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I like working alone
- I like outdoor work
- I like machines
- I can be on call
- I’m reliable
- I don’t need a degree
Not sure? Take the free Pump Operator fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Check for H2S
- Stand upwind at hatches
- Drive safely
- Follow lockout/tagout