What is a Pump Operator?

A pump operator is someone that works with stationary or portable pumps to transfer liquids and gases, as well as powdered materials in and out of vessels and processes, performs inspections and maintenance on various machinery, and troubleshoots issues with systems and processes. There are various areas where pump operators can work. Pump operator positions include pipeline operators, day light relief operators, chemical operators, pump station operators, purification operators, and tank car loaders. There are also blend technicians, cable maintainers, process operators, and utility operators. All pump operators need to obtain specific training in order to work in their chosen area.

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What does a Pump Operator do?

A pump operator performs various tasks, depending on the specific job that they are assigned to. Tasks include monitoring various tanks and flowmeters to ensure that they are working properly. Pump operators are also required to report any data that may be abnormal. They turn on start pumps and valves in order to start the flow or regulate the flow of any substance such as a gas or liquid. They record data that includes specific products and quantities that are pumped, operation times, and end results. They communicate with the other workers via radio and telephone in order to confirm when to start and stop flows. They repair and clean various pumps and vessels using special hand tools, and they collect samples for labs that may need to be analyzed. They receive orders on what substances need to be pumped, as well as the specific amount of liquid or powdered material that is required, and they also connect pipelines and hoses to the designated pumps before transfer can take place. Pump operators inspect equipment, structures, and material in order to ensure that they are safe and functional, and they also handle a variety of moving objects during installation and removal procedures.

What does it take to be a Pump Operator?

Pump operators are required to take training courses for their specific jobs and must have a knowledge of the structure of the English language. They also receive on the job training. If a pump operatorwill be working with a crane, they are required to take a licensing test in 16 of the states in the US. They are also required to have knowledge of relevant equipment that they will be working with, including policies and safety operations, and comply with all state safety regulations. They need to be knowledgable in computers and electronics, including circuit boards, hardware and software, and programming. They must be familiar with production and processing, and this includes knowledge of raw materials and quality control. Skills needed to perform this job are operation monitoring, where the operator will check dials and gauges to make sure that the machines are working properly, critical thinking, which is important in this line of work as workers need to be able to think on their feet in the event of a machine malfunction or an emergency. Being an active listener is also an important skill for a pump operator, as much of this job involves communicating information with other workers and team members. A pump operator must also have excellent reading and comprehension skills in order to understand work orders and various documents. Pump operators should posess good hand and eye coordination, as they will be performing duties that require attention to the smallest details, including adjusting various controls of machines and vehicles.

What is the workplace of a Pump Operator like?

The workplace of a pump operator will vary from job to job. Many pump operators work on construction and job sites, and there are also pump operators that work in factories and warehouses. Some operators work on loading docks and move materials off of ships and trucks. Others work in the inspection area where they inspect equipment and perform maintenence work. Operators are required to follow specific safety guidelines and wear protective clothing including vests, gloves, and work boots, and safety goggles and masks are a must on specific job sites in order to protect pump operators from hazardous fumes and eye irritants. It is very important for pump operators to possess a positive attitude and respect their coworkers, as proper communication is of the utmost importantce in this field. There is a definite opportunity for advancement, which means more pay and more responsibility.

How much does a Pump Operator earn?

Pump operators have a median salary of $41,870.00 which is equal to $21.09 an hour. If promoted to a higher position, the pay will increase depending on experience. A work shift will usually start around 5:00 or 6:00 AM, and the shifts tend to be eight hours. There are also pump operators that only work during specific seasons, due to weather conditions and the ability to work outdoors. If a worker works longer than eight hours, overtime pay is provided. This is a career that offers job security, and new job openings are continuously being created all the time in order to replace workers that are getting ready to retire. Pump operators tend to stay in their jobs for many years, which allows them various opportunities to obtain pay raises and qualify for advancements.

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Employment Stats

High school diploma required

Growing by 10.8% over the next 8 years

$48K Average annual salary