ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Petroleum Pump Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Kern Energy CA

Pumper I

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$37.31/hr

... blending petroleum products and coordinating the loading and unloading of trucks in the refinery ... Adjust pump controls, valves, and flow meters to maintain optimal performance and adherence to ...

Energy transfer

Operator - Reclamation

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$16.75 - $22.25/hr

Receive & Inspect incoming PCW (Petroleum-Contaminated Wastewater) deliveries to verify material ... Transfer products between storage tanks using facility piping systems, pumps, and valves. * Operate ...

LV Petroleum

Maintenance Technician

Fultonville, NY · On-site

$21/hr

... Petroleum is a growing operator of gas stations, convenience stores, and travel centers across ... Maintenance & Repair: Perform routine maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs on fuel pumps ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsPetroleum Pump Operator Jobs

Petroleum Pump Operator information

See salary details

$27.5K

$52.1K

$74K

How much do petroleum pump operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for petroleum pump operator in the United States is $52,091.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,000.00 and $62,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Petroleum Pump Operator vs Oil Field Worker?

AspectPetroleum Pump OperatorOil Field Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety training, possibly certificationsHigh school diploma, safety training, physical fitness
Work EnvironmentRefineries, pump stations, oil fieldsOil rigs, drilling sites, field locations
Job DutiesOperate and monitor pumps, ensure safety, maintain equipmentAssist in drilling, maintenance, equipment setup, field operations

Petroleum Pump Operators focus on operating and maintaining pumps in refineries and oil fields, requiring safety training and certifications. Oil Field Workers perform broader tasks on drilling sites, often with physical labor involved. Both roles are essential in the oil industry but differ in specific duties and work environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a petroleum pump operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Petroleum Pump Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical systems, safety protocols, and fuel handling, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with pump controls, flow meters, and safety monitoring systems is typically required, along with relevant safety or hazardous materials certifications. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help operators manage tasks efficiently and respond to issues quickly. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure safe, reliable fuel transfer and prevent accidents or environmental hazards.

What are the most common safety challenges faced by petroleum pump operators, and how are they addressed on the job?

Petroleum Pump Operators frequently encounter safety challenges such as handling flammable liquids, exposure to hazardous fumes, and the risk of equipment malfunctions. To address these risks, operators follow strict safety protocols, including wearing protective gear, conducting regular equipment inspections, and adhering to emergency procedures. Many facilities also provide ongoing safety training and emphasize teamwork to ensure everyone remains vigilant. Clear communication with supervisors and maintenance staff is essential to quickly identify and resolve potential hazards.

What is a petroleum pump operator?

Petroleum Pump Operators are professionals responsible for operating and controlling the equipment that transfers oil, gas, or petroleum products from pipelines, storage tanks, or vehicles. They monitor gauges and flow meters, regulate the flow of product, and ensure that tanks or vehicles are filled safely and efficiently. Their duties also include maintaining equipment, following safety protocols, and sometimes taking samples for quality testing. These operators play a critical role in the energy supply chain by ensuring safe and efficient fuel movement.

How much do petroleum pump operators make in the US?

Petroleum pump operators in the US typically earn a median annual wage of around $40,000 to $50,000. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and the complexity of the equipment operated, with some operators earning over $60,000 annually. The job often requires technical skills and safety certifications.
More about Petroleum Pump Operator jobs

What cities are hiring for Petroleum Pump Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Petroleum Pump Operator job openings:

What states have the most Petroleum Pump Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Petroleum Pump Operator jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Petroleum Pump Operator jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Petroleum Pump Operator jobs are:

Petroleum Pump Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Petroleum Pump Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,091 per year, or $25 per hour.

Pumper I

Kern Energy CA

Bakersfield, CA • On-site

$37.31/hr

Other

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Pumper I

Corporate Office - Bakersfield, CA

Overview

Salary Range $37.31 Hourly Level Experienced Position Type Full Time Job Shift Rotating 12-hour Shift Education Level G.E.D or Equivalent Travel Percentage None Category Operations

Description

Kern Energy is seeking a Pumper who will be responsible for monitoring the activity in the refinery storage tanks, physically blending petroleum products and coordinating the loading and unloading of trucks in the refinery. The pumper will have a keen sense of attention to detail, technical expertise, and commitment to safety will be vital in minimizing downtime, optimizing production, and preventing accidents or spills. The successful candidate will exhibit Kern's core values of Teamwork, Safety, Excellence, Integrity, and Connection.

Job Function
  • Operate and monitor pumps, valves, and related equipment to ensure proper flow rates and pressures in accordance with operational requirements.
  • Regularly inspect pumps and associated systems to identify signs of wear, leaks, or malfunctions and take appropriate corrective actions.
  • Adjust pump controls, valves, and flow meters to maintain optimal performance and adherence to operational parameters.
  • Conduct routine maintenance activities, including lubrication, alignment checks, and filter replacements, to keep pumps and associated equipment in good working order.
  • Perform preventive maintenance tasks on pumps, valves, motors, and other equipment to prevent unexpected breakdowns and maximize uptime.
  • Collaborate with maintenance teams to troubleshoot and repair equipment issues, ensuring minimal disruptions to refinery operations.
  • Adhere to all safety protocols, operating procedures, and regulatory requirements to maintain a safe working environment.
  • Identify potential safety hazards and promptly report them to the appropriate personnel for resolution.
  • Participate in safety meetings, drills, and training programs to enhance personal and team safety awareness.
  • Maintain accurate records of pump operations, maintenance activities, inspections, and repairs.
  • Generate shift reports, log entries, and incident reports as required, documenting any abnormalities, incidents, or noteworthy observations.
  • Communicate effectively with supervisors and colleagues, providing updates on pump performance, maintenance activities, and potential issues.
  • Identify opportunities to optimize pump performance, energy efficiency, and reliability through data analysis and monitoring trends.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement improvement initiatives, such as upgrading equipment, enhancing procedures, or implementing new technologies.
Qualifications

Knowledge Skills

  • Strong understanding of pump systems, valves, pipelines, and associated control mechanisms.
  • Familiarity with safety regulations, procedures, and best practices in the petroleum industry.
  • Ability to read and interpret technical manuals, schematics, and engineering drawings.
  • Proficiency in using computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS) or similar software for documenting maintenance activities and generating reports.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot and resolve equipment issues effectively.
  • Strong attention to detail, with a focus on accuracy and precision in monitoring and recording pump operations.
  • Effective communication skills to collaborate with team members and communicate technical information clearly.

Education/ Experience

  • High school diploma or equivalent; technical training or certification in mechanical, electrical, or relevant field is preferred.
  • Proven experience operating and maintaining pumps and related equipment in an industrial setting, preferably in a refinery or petrochemical plant.

Apply