Wellhead Pumper

Your Fit

Income

$70K

Preparation

Some

Growth

-2.2%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Wellhead Pumper?

A Wellhead Pumper operates and maintains wells that extract oil and gas. They ensure the efficient and safe operation of these wells, monitoring for issues and performing routine maintenance.

Sample job titles:

Field Operator, Lease Operator, Pumper, Well Tender

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Wellhead Pumper.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Wellhead Pumper earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) in 2024 was...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$39K per year	$54K per year	$70K per year	$81K per year	$98K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $20K above the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Wellhead Pumper do?

Work environment

Wellhead Pumpers typically work at oil and gas extraction sites, which can be located in remote areas. The work often involves outdoor environments, sometimes in harsh weather conditions, and requires adherence to strict safety protocols.

Quick task list

Monitors operation of oil and gas wells and related equipment.
Performs routine maintenance and repairs on wellhead equipment.
Records data on production, maintenance activities, and operational changes.
Ensures compliance with environmental and safety regulations.
Identifies and troubleshoots issues in well operation.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Offshore Well Operation: Specializing in the operation of wells located offshore.
Natural Gas Extraction: Focusing on wells that primarily extract natural gas.
Automated Well Technology: Specializing in the operation of wells with advanced, automated technology.
Environmental Compliance: Focusing on maintaining operations that meet stringent environmental standards.
Field Equipment Maintenance: Specializing in the maintenance and repair of wellhead equipment.

Description

Wellhead Pumpers play a critical role in the oil and gas industry, overseeing the extraction process to ensure it runs smoothly and efficiently. They must be knowledgeable about the mechanical and operational aspects of wellheads and be able to identify and address any issues that arise. This requires a strong attention to detail and the ability to quickly solve problems.

The job can be physically demanding, often requiring the handling of heavy equipment and tools. Pumpers spend a significant amount of time outdoors, monitoring wells and performing maintenance tasks. The ability to work independently is crucial, as wellhead pumpers may work alone or in small teams, particularly in remote locations.

Safety is a paramount concern in this field, given the potential hazards associated with oil and gas extraction. Wellhead Pumpers must strictly adhere to safety protocols and regulations to prevent accidents and environmental incidents. Continuous learning about new technologies and safety practices is essential in this evolving industry.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Contributing to a vital sector of the economy.
The challenge and responsibility of managing complex extraction processes.
Opportunities for independent work and problem-solving.

You might make a good Wellhead Pumper if you are...

Interested in mechanics and how things work.
Comfortable working in remote and outdoor environments.
Attentive to detail and safety-conscious.
Capable of performing physical tasks and handling tools and equipment.
A problem solver who can work independently.

Pros:

Stable employment in a critical industry.
Opportunities for overtime and high earning potential.
Independence in daily work tasks.

Cons:

Physically demanding and potentially hazardous work.
Remote work locations can mean time away from home.
Exposure to harsh weather conditions and environmental elements.

How to become a Wellhead Pumper

Typical education

A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required. On-the-job training is common, and some employers may prefer candidates with additional vocational training or certifications related to oil and gas production.

High school preparation

Courses:

Shop classes or vocational training in mechanics.
Physical science courses to understand the basics of oil and gas extraction.
Mathematics for calculating volumes and pressures.
Physical education to build stamina and physical fitness.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Joining technical clubs like robotics or engineering.
Participating in outdoor activities or sports.
Volunteering for community service that involves mechanical or construction work.

Preparation after high school

Technical or vocational training specific to oil and gas extraction.
On-the-job training programs offered by employers in the oil and gas industry.
Certifications in safety procedures and equipment operation.

More resources

American Petroleum Institute (API) - Provides industry standards and training resources.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) - Offers guidelines on workplace safety in the oil and gas industry.
Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) - A global organization offering resources and information for oil and gas professionals.
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) - Provides research and training on occupational safety, particularly in the oil and gas sector.

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Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.