Pump Operator

Your Fit

Income

$62K

Preparation

Some

Growth

3.6%

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

What is a Pump Operator?

A Pump Operator controls and maintains machinery used to transfer gases, oil, other liquids, or powdered materials. This role involves monitoring equipment, managing flow rates, and ensuring efficient and safe operations.

Sample job titles:

Outside Operator, Pipeline Operator, Pumper, Tank Farm Operator

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Pump Operator.

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 Pump Operator earn

Income data is from Employment and Social Development Canada's 2024 wage tables. The closest match for this career in Canada’s occupational classification system is Pump Operator.

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$42K per year	$52K per year	$62K per year	$73K per year	$79K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $2.6K below the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Pump Operator do?

Work environment

Pump Operators typically work in industrial settings, such as oil refineries, manufacturing plants, or construction sites. The environment can be noisy and may require working in various weather conditions. Shift work is common, including nights and weekends, depending on the industry's operational hours.

Quick task list

Operates pumps and control systems to regulate the flow and pressure of substances.
Performs routine maintenance and repairs on pump equipment.
Monitors gauges, dials, and other indicators to ensure equipment operates correctly.
Adheres to safety procedures and environmental regulations.
Records operational data and reports any irregularities.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Oil and Gas Operations: Specializing in pumping operations in the oil and gas industry.
Chemical Processing: Managing pumps in the chemical manufacturing sector.
Water and Wastewater Treatment: Operating pumps in water treatment facilities.
Construction and Mining: Handling pumps used for concrete, grout, and other materials in construction or mining.
Agricultural Irrigation: Specializing in irrigation systems for agricultural use.

Description

Pump Operators are key players in industries where the movement of liquids and gases is critical. They must understand the mechanics of the pumps they operate and be able to troubleshoot issues that arise. The role requires a strong attention to detail, as operators must constantly monitor equipment and adjust controls to maintain the desired flow and pressure levels, and ensure the efficient operation of systems.

Safety is a paramount concern for Pump Operators, who must be knowledgeable about the hazardous materials they may handle and comply with all relevant safety and environmental regulations. Regular maintenance of the pumping equipment is essential to prevent malfunctions or leaks, which can have serious consequences.

The work of a Pump Operator can be physically demanding and may involve standing for long periods, climbing ladders, and lifting heavy objects. The ability to work independently, as well as part of a team, is crucial. Operators often collaborate with other technicians and report to supervisors to ensure that operations run smoothly.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Playing a crucial role in the functioning of key industrial operations.
The opportunity to work with complex mechanical systems.
A sense of accomplishment in maintaining efficient and safe operations.

You might make a good Pump Operator if you are...

Interested in machinery and mechanical processes.
Attentive to detail and able to focus on monitoring equipment for extended periods.
Committed to safety and environmental standards.
Able to perform physical tasks and comfortable working in various environmental conditions.
A problem-solver who can react quickly and effectively to operational issues.

Pros:

Stable employment opportunities in various industries.
The satisfaction of hands-on work with machinery.
Opportunities for overtime and shift differential pay.

Cons:

Potential exposure to hazardous materials and loud noise.
Physically demanding work conditions.
Requirement to work in potentially challenging weather conditions and at odd hours.

How to become a Pump Operator

Typical education

A high school diploma or equivalent is generally required. Most Pump Operators receive training on the job. Some workers also complete vocational or technical training in areas such as industrial operations, mechanical systems, or process technology, which can be beneficial for skill development and career advancement.

High school preparation

Courses:

Technical or vocational courses in mechanics or engineering.
Science courses, especially physics and chemistry, for understanding material properties.
Mathematics for calculating flow rates and pressures.
Industrial arts or shop classes for hands-on mechanical skills.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Join robotics or engineering clubs.
Participate in hands-on workshops or maker fairs.
Volunteer or intern in mechanical or industrial settings.

Preparation after high school

Complete vocational or technical training in industrial operations, mechanical systems, or a related field, if available.
Gain hands-on experience through on-the-job training or entry-level positions in industries such as utilities, oil and gas, manufacturing, or water treatment.
Obtain relevant safety and industry certifications, such as hazardous materials handling, confined space training, or equipment-specific certifications, as required by the employer.

More resources

National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) - Offers certification programs in engineering technology fields.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) - Provides safety guidelines and training resources.
American Water Works Association (AWWA) - A resource for those interested in water treatment and management.
Society for Maintenance & Reliability Professionals (SMRP) - Offers resources and certification for maintenance professionals.

Similar careers

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.