Pump Operators, Except Wellhead Pumpers
O*NET 53-7072.00 · SOC 53-7072
Pump Operator is a solid career choice. Median pay is $62k a year with +4.3% projected growth through 2035 (about as fast as average) and about 1,000 openings a year. AI exposure: Elevated.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Monitor pressure gauges and flow meters during pumping operations.
- →Start and stop pumps to control liquid transfer rates.
- →Inspect pipelines and valves for leaks or blockages.
- →Adjust pump speed to maintain required flow pressure.
- →Record pump operating data in daily shift logs.
Education & How to Get In
Pump Operator roles typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, with most training happening on the job. This makes it one of the more accessible career paths, you can often start working while earning certifications or completing short-term training programs.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Hands-on, labs, workshops, or field sites
Mixed, alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Pump Operator involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Pump Operator?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Pump Operator Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Pump Operators, Except Wellhead Pumpers is projected to grow 4.3% from 2025 to 2035, about as fast as average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·43% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target
- ·43% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Pump Operator make?
The median Pump Operator earns $62k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Pump Operator jobs?
Our model puts Pump Operator at 54 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is elevated disruption risk. The main drivers: 43% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target; 43% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress.
Is Pump Operator a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 4.3% between 2025 and 2035, which is about as fast as average. That works out to roughly 1,000 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Pump Operator?
Most Pump Operator roles need a high school diploma or equivalent, with training happening on the job. A degree is not the usual route in.
How long does it take to become a Pump Operator?
Typically under a year, usually a high school diploma plus short training. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 2 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Pump Operator career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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