Operate steam-, gas-, electric motor-, or internal combustion-engine driven compressors. Transmit, compress, or recover gases, such as butane, nitrogen, hydrogen, and natural gas.
SOC: 53-7071.00
Common Job Titles
Compressor Station Operator
Compressor Technician
Filler
Plant Operator
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onOperate steam-, gas-, electric motor-, and internal combustion-engine driven compressors in gas pumping stations to transmit, compress, or recover gases such as butane, nitrogen, hydrogen, and natural gas.
Proficient
KnowledgeEvaluate compressor and pumping station equipment performance against safety and operational standards through continuous monitoring of processes, materials, and surroundings.
Proficient
Hands-onPerform preventive and corrective maintenance on mechanical compressor equipment using hand tools, power tools, and diagnostic instruments to ensure operational reliability.
Proficient
KnowledgeApply production and processing procedures for gas compression and transmission in compliance with public safety and security regulations.
Proficient
Hands-onCoordinate machine controls and process adjustments to maintain optimal flow rates, pressures, and temperatures under varying operational conditions.
Proficient
Hands-onExecute routine inspections of equipment, structures, and materials following established safety protocols and quality control procedures.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess equipment operational status and process variables to make timely decisions and solve problems affecting production continuity.
Proficient
KnowledgeCompare actual versus expected operational parameters using chemistry and mechanical knowledge to identify deviations and prevent equipment failure.
Proficient
KnowledgeAnalyze pressure gauges, flow meters, and control system data to diagnose equipment malfunctions and troubleshoot operational issues independently.
Developing
KnowledgeInterpret technical documentation, operational logs, and maintenance records to ensure accurate documentation and regulatory compliance.
Developing
MindsetEngage in continuous learning about evolving compressor technologies and safety practices through training programs and collaboration with supervisors and peers.
Developing
Hands-onManipulate computerized maintenance management systems and programmable logic controller software to document work activities, monitor system performance, and optimize operations.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Gas Compressor and Gas Pumping Station Operators (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
5,110
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $43,950. 25th percentile: U.S. $57,520. 50th percentile: U.S. $71,510. 75th percentile: U.S. $88,090. 90th percentile: U.S. $98,350. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$43,950
10% of workers earn the following or more
$98,350
Workers on average earn
$71,750
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Production and Processing4.6/5
Mechanical4.3/5
Public Safety and Security3.9/5
Administration and Management3.8/5
Chemistry3.7/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
