Gas compressor and gas pumping station operators control and maintain the machinery that moves natural gas through pipelines and storage systems. It is hands-on, in demand, and you can start with a high school diploma. Here is what the work involves, what it takes, and how to get in.
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You operate and maintain compressors and pumping equipment at gas facilities. Your day involves monitoring gauges and control systems, documenting equipment performance, identifying mechanical problems, and making decisions about how to keep systems running safely. You repair and maintain equipment when issues arise, follow strict safety protocols, and stay alert to changing conditions. You read technical manuals, communicate with your team, and think critically about how to solve problems that come up. This work requires attention to detail and a solid grasp of how mechanical and chemical systems work together.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Gas Compressor and Gas Pumping Station Operators earn a median of $77,320 a year, based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and location.
The outlook is softer here. Employment is projected to fall 1 percent from 2024 to 2034, though there are still about 600 openings a year from turnover.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
Start with a high school diploma or equivalent. Most operators enter the field through on-the-job training, where you learn equipment operation, maintenance procedures, and safety protocols from experienced workers. Some employers prefer candidates with vocational training or coursework in mechanical systems or industrial operations. You will develop skills in reading technical documentation, monitoring equipment, critical thinking, and mathematics as you train. The preparation typically involves some formal instruction combined with hands-on experience under supervision before you work independently.
Most operators move into this role through direct employer training or vocational programs. If you are deciding between different entry paths, Pathly can map the gas compressor and gas pumping station operator path that fits you with your counselor to map out a timeline that fits your situation.
Many gas compressor and gas pumping station operators must be licensed, and professional certifications can strengthen your resume.
Common certifications
Licensing is handled at the state level and the requirements vary, so check the licensing board in your state. Pathly shows your state's specific steps inside your roadmap.
You are drawn to hands-on work with machines and systems. You think practically about how things work, stay focused on safety and precision, and solve problems as they arise.
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Last updated July 1, 2026.
Data sources. Career details from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under CC BY 4.0. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 wages; 2024–2034 projections), delivered via the CareerOneStop API. Certification, licensing, wage, and outlook data from CareerOneStop, sponsored by USDOL/ETA and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).