Gas Compressor and Gas Pumping Station Operators
Job Zone 2 - Some preparation needed
Operate steam-, gas-, electric motor-, or internal combustion-engine driven compressors. Transmit, compress, or recover gases, such as butane, nitrogen, hydrogen, and natural gas.
Median pay: $77,320/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.
Job outlook: -1.3% projected growth, 2024–2034 — declining.
About 600 openings per year, on average, over the decade.
Typical entry-level education: High school diploma or equivalent.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.
• Monitor meters and pressure gauges to determine consumption rate variations, temperatures, and pressures.
• Respond to problems by adjusting control room equipment or instructing other personnel to adjust equipment at problem locations or in other control areas.
• Record instrument readings and operational changes in operating logs.
• Adjust valves and equipment to obtain specified performance.
• Move controls and turn valves to start compressor engines, pumps, and auxiliary equipment.
• Operate power-driven pumps that transfer liquids, semi-liquids, gases, or powdered materials.
• Submit daily reports on facility operations.
• Take samples of gases and conduct chemical tests to determine gas quality and sulfur or moisture content, or send samples to laboratories for analysis.
What's the median pay for Gas Compressor and Gas Pumping Station Operators?
The median pay for Gas Compressor and Gas Pumping Station Operators is $77,320 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Gas Compressor and Gas Pumping Station Operators?
Employment for Gas Compressor and Gas Pumping Station Operators is projected to change -1.3% from 2024 to 2034 - declining.
What education is typically required for Gas Compressor and Gas Pumping Station Operators?
Typical entry-level education: High school diploma or equivalent.
How many job openings are there each year for Gas Compressor and Gas Pumping Station Operators?
About 600 openings per year, on average, over the decade.