Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a Tank Loader
What tank loaders 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 tank loader?
Safety briefing. From there, the day usually includes connect hoses and arms, load and unload products, and monitor levels. Full time, often shifts.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a tank loader working full time.
- Safety briefing.
- Inspect loading arms.
- Load a tank truck.
- Unload a rail car.
- Take a sample.
- Complete bills of lading.
- Log volumes.
Where tank loaders work
Loaders work at fuel terminals, chemical plants, rail yards and ports.
Hours and schedule
Full time, often shifts.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Connect hoses and arms
- Load and unload products
- Monitor levels
- Check pressure
- Follow hazmat rules
- Inspect equipment
- Complete paperwork
Tools you’ll use every day
- Loading arms
- Hoses
- Flow meters
- Grounding cables
- Gauges
- Sample kits
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Good industrial pay
- Short training
- Average growth
- Outdoor work
What’s hard
- Hazardous materials
- Weather
- Shift work
- Fumes
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I follow procedures exactly
- I care about safety
- I don’t mind weather
- I can work shifts
- I want industrial pay
- I want short training
Not sure? Take the free Tank Loader fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Bond and ground before loading
- Wear chemical PPE
- Follow hazmat rules
- Know emergency shutdowns