Shigoto Zukan
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How to become pump operators, except wellhead pumperseducation, training, experience and the steps to enter

United States Logistics Confidence ★★★★★

Median annual pay
$61,770
25th–75th pct. $47,560–$77,210
Top pay (est.)
$119,400
Top 10% $91,820
Pay in 5 years
$71,900est.
2031
Pay in 10 years
$83,700est.
$72,000–$97,200
Outlook score
58/100
★★★☆☆ Average
AI replacement risk
41%
Moderate
Job growth (10 yr)
+4.3%
1,000 openings / yr

How to become pump operators, except wellhead pumpers

Typical education
High school diploma or equivalent
BLS
Related experience
None
On-the-job training
Moderate-term on-the-job training

A step-by-step guide for this occupation is being prepared. The education, training and experience data above show the typical path.

Skills, education and requirements for Pump Operators, Except Wellhead Pumpers

Key skills

Operations Monitoring
3.8
Monitoring
3.4
Operation and Control
3.2
Critical Thinking
3.1
Reading Comprehension
3.0
Coordination
3.0
Active Listening
3.0
Judgment and Decision Making
3.0

O*NET skill level ratings (0–7).

Key knowledge areas

Mechanical
4.2
Mathematics
3.8
Production and Processing
3.7
Computers and Electronics
3.5
Engineering and Technology
3.4
English Language
3.2
Administration and Management
3.1
Education and Training
3.1

What the work involves

Handling and Moving ObjectsMaking Decisions and Solving ProblemsPerforming General Physical ActivitiesMonitoring Processes, Materials, or SurroundingsInspecting Equipment, Structures, or MaterialsRepairing and Maintaining Mechanical EquipmentOrganizing, Planning, and Prioritizing WorkIdentifying Objects, Actions, and Events

Important abilities

Perceptual SpeedOral ComprehensionAuditory AttentionNear VisionVisualizationOral Expression

Education of workers

Some college
8%
Post-secondary certificate
8%
Associate's degree
5%

Training before entry

2–4 years
17%
6–12 months
16%
1–2 years
9%
None / short demo
5%
3–6 months
3%

Related work experience

2–4 years
18%
None
17%
6–12 months
8%
4–6 years
3%

Job Zone 2 — some preparation needed (O*NET)

Difficulty of entry: ★★☆☆☆ Fairly easy (from education, training, experience and Job Zone)

Career path and how to earn more as pump operators, except wellhead pumpers

Career-path guidance is being prepared. Pay by percentile is shown in the Pay section.

Pay and employment figures are national statistics. Projected pay, outlook scores and AI replacement risk are estimates from the Shigoto Zukan model, not guarantees. To request a correction, use the contact form. How to read the data
Sources: BLS OEWS May 2025; BLS Employment Projections 2025–35; O*NET 31.0 Database by USDOL/ETA (CC BY 4.0), modified by Shigoto Zukan. Pay ranges, projections and scores are Shigoto Zukan estimates.