Gas Compressor Operator

Your Fit

Income

$72K

Preparation

Some

Growth

-2.1%

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

What is a Gas Compressor Operator?

A Gas Compressor Operator controls and maintains the machinery used for compressing gas. Their role involves monitoring the equipment, adjusting controls, and ensuring the efficient and safe operation of gas compression systems.

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Why this fit score?

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

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Test scores

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

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How much does a Gas Compressor Operator earn

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

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$44K per year	$58K per year	$72K per year	$88K per year	$98K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $22K above the national average.

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What does a Gas Compressor Operator do?

Work environment

Gas Compressor Operators typically work in industrial settings such as natural gas plants, oil fields, and pipelines. The work can involve exposure to noise, outdoor elements, and sometimes hazardous conditions. Shift work is common, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

Quick task list

Operates and monitors gas compression machinery.
Adjusts controls to manage flow and pressure of gas.
Performs routine maintenance and repairs on equipment.
Ensures compliance with safety and environmental regulations.
Records operational data and reports any irregularities.

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Areas of specialization

Natural Gas Compression: Specializing in the compression of natural gas for transportation and storage.
Oil Field Gas Management: Managing gas compression in oil fields for efficient oil production.
Pipeline Operations: Focusing on the compression of gas within pipeline systems.
Hazardous Gas Handling: Working with hazardous gases, requiring specialized safety training.
Maintenance and Repair: Specializing in the mechanical upkeep of compression equipment.

Description

Gas Compressor Operators are essential in the energy sector, ensuring the safe and efficient movement of gas through pipelines and into storage. They need to understand the mechanics of compression machinery and have the skills to identify and troubleshoot issues. Operators are responsible for adjusting machine settings to manage flow rates and pressures according to operational requirements, and they must be vigilant to prevent leaks or other hazardous situations.

Safety is a critical aspect of this role. Operators must adhere to strict safety protocols, particularly when handling or working near hazardous gases. They also play a significant role in environmental protection by ensuring their machinery operates within regulatory standards.

The job requires both technical know-how and physical stamina, as operators may need to perform manual adjustments and repairs. Good communication skills are also essential, as operators often work in teams and need to coordinate with other facility staff, including engineers and safety managers.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Contributing to the critical infrastructure of the energy sector.
Opportunities to work with complex mechanical systems.
The challenge and responsibility of maintaining safe and efficient operations.

You might make a good Gas Compressor Operator if you are...

Technically inclined with an interest in machinery and mechanical processes.
Vigilant, with a strong attention to safety and detail.
Able to perform physical tasks and work in various environmental conditions.
Comfortable with shift work, including nights and weekends.
A good communicator and team player.

Pros:

Stable job opportunities in an essential industry.
Opportunities for overtime and shift differential pay.
The satisfaction of hands-on work and problem-solving.

Cons:

Exposure to potentially hazardous materials and noisy environments.
Physically demanding work with a need for constant vigilance.
Irregular hours and the need to work in all weather conditions.

How to become a Gas Compressor Operator

Typical education

A high school diploma or equivalent is typically sufficient, with on-the-job training provided. Some operators may pursue vocational training or associate degrees in related fields, such as process technology or mechanical engineering.

High school preparation

Courses:

Industrial arts or vocational technical courses for hands-on mechanical skills.
Science courses, especially physics and chemistry, for understanding gas properties.
Mathematics for calculations related to pressure and flow rates.
Safety and health education for workplace safety awareness.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Participation in science clubs or engineering-focused groups.
Involvement in team sports or physical activities to build stamina.
Volunteering or part-time work in mechanical or industrial settings.

Preparation after high school

Vocational training or certifications in gas operations or mechanical engineering technology.
Apprenticeships or on-the-job training programs in the energy sector.
Additional certifications in safety procedures, particularly for hazardous materials handling.

More resources

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) - Provides guidelines on occupational safety, including for the gas industry.
American Gas Association (AGA) - Offers resources and information on the natural gas industry.
Energy.gov - A resource for information on energy production, including natural gas operations.
National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) - Provides training and certification programs for various industrial and mechanical fields.

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