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Pipeline Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Sable Offshore

Pipeline Operator

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$46 - $58/hr

The Pipeline Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible operation, monitoring, inspection, maintenance support, and transportation of crude oil through the ...

Sable Offshore Corp

Pipeline Operator

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$46 - $58/hr

The Pipeline Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible operation, monitoring, inspection, maintenance support, and transportation of crude oil through the ...

Sable Offshore

Pipeline Operator

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$46 - $58/hr

The Pipeline Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible operation, monitoring, inspection, maintenance support, and transportation of crude oil through the ...

Sable Offshore

Pipeline Operator

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$46 - $58/hr

The Pipeline Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible operation, monitoring, inspection, maintenance support, and transportation of crude oil through the ...

Tcenergy

Pipeline Technician

Pleasant Hill, CA

Reporting to the Area Manager, the Pipeline Technician supports the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of compressor station facilities by helping organize and maintain sites, assisting various ...

Boudreau Pipeline

Heavy Equipment Operator

Corona, CA · On-site

$38 - $56/hr

Performs job safely with respect to others, property and individual safety Experience: * 3+ years operating excavators in underground utility or pipeline construction. * Ability to read grades ...

New

Google

Engineering Manager, NIC Pipeline

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

Responsibilities : • Advocate the technical strategy for the complete NIC pipeline team, ensuring ... embedded operating systems and firmware development. • 5 years of experience in a people ...

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Pipeline Operator information

See California salary details

$16

$24

$30

How much do pipeline operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for pipeline operator in California is $24.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.62 and $27.98 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a pipeline operator do?

Pipeline operators are responsible for the control of the flow of oil, gas, and other materials sent through pipelines at a power plant or refinery. Their duties include monitoring the instruments and regulating the pumps within the refinery or plant, as well as conducting routine maintenance and inspections of the pipeline and pipeline systems. Senior pipeline operators may train new employees on policies, procedures, and other responsibilities.

What are the typical daily challenges faced by a pipeline operator, and how are they addressed?

Pipeline Operators often encounter challenges such as monitoring for leaks, responding to pressure fluctuations, and ensuring regulatory compliance. Daily responsibilities include overseeing control systems, conducting routine inspections, and maintaining clear communication with maintenance and emergency response teams. Operators address these challenges by following strict safety protocols, utilizing advanced monitoring technology, and participating in regular training. Collaboration with engineers and field technicians is also essential to quickly resolve issues and maintain safe, efficient pipeline operations.

What is the difference between Pipeline Operator vs Oil and Gas Technician?

AspectPipeline OperatorOil and Gas Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certificationsHigh school diploma, technical certifications
Work EnvironmentField sites, pipelines, industrial facilitiesRefineries, drilling sites, field operations
Industry UsageOil & gas transportation companiesExtraction, processing, and maintenance companies
Common Search/ComparisonYesNo

The main difference between a Pipeline Operator and an Oil and Gas Technician lies in their focus areas. Pipeline Operators primarily oversee the transportation of oil and gas through pipelines, ensuring safety and efficiency. Oil and Gas Technicians are more involved in the extraction, processing, and maintenance of equipment at drilling and processing sites. Both roles require safety certifications and technical knowledge, but their work environments and daily tasks differ significantly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a pipeline operator?

To thrive as a Pipeline Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical systems, safety protocols, and basic math, typically supported by a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, pressure monitoring tools, and industry-standard safety certifications like OSHA are commonly required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and reliable communication skills help operators respond quickly to issues and collaborate effectively. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of pipeline systems.

What does a pipeline operator do?

A pipeline operator is responsible for monitoring and controlling the flow of oil, gas, or other materials through pipelines. They ensure that the pipelines operate safely and efficiently by checking for leaks, regulating pressure, and performing routine maintenance. Pipeline operators also respond to emergencies, troubleshoot issues, and coordinate with other team members to ensure uninterrupted operations. Their role is crucial in maintaining the safety and reliability of energy transportation infrastructure.

Is it hard to get a job as a pipeline operator?

Getting a job as a pipeline operator can be competitive and often requires relevant experience, technical skills, and safety certifications. Employers typically look for candidates with knowledge of equipment, maintenance procedures, and the ability to work in challenging environments, which may involve on-the-job training or apprenticeships.
More about Pipeline Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Pipeline Operator jobs in California? The most popular types of Pipeline Operator jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Pipeline Operator jobs in California? For Pipeline Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Pipeline Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Pipeline Operator jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Pipeline Operator jobs? Cities in California with the most Pipeline Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Pipeline Operator jobs in CA? For Pipeline Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Pipeline Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pipeline Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 7% Contract, and 7% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,708 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Pipeline Operator

Sable Offshore

Santa Maria, CA • On-site

$46 - $58/hr

Other

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

BASIC PURPOSE OF POSITION:
The Pipeline Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible operation, monitoring, inspection, maintenance support, and transportation of crude oil through the Company's pipeline systems and associated facilities. This position performs daily field operations to ensure the reliable movement of crude oil while maintaining compliance with Company policies and all applicable federal, state, and local regulations.
Working from the Santa Maria Battles Station, the Pipeline Operator performs pipeline patrols, facility inspections, leak detection activities, product transfers, custody transfer measurements, product sampling, tank switching, pipeline startups and shutdowns, and emergency response activities. The role supports pipeline assets throughout Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, and Kern Counties and requires travel between Company facilities.
The successful candidate demonstrates a strong commitment to safety, environmental stewardship, operational excellence, and regulatory compliance while working independently and collaboratively with Operations, Maintenance, Engineering, and Control Room personnel.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Safely operate crude oil gathering, transmission, and transportation pipeline systems.
  • Monitor and control pipeline operations to ensure safe and reliable product movement.
  • Perform daily inspections of pipelines, pump stations, storage tanks, valve sites, manifolds, and associated facilities
  • Conduct routine pipeline patrols and right-of-way inspections in accordance with DOT/PHMSA regulations and Company procedures
  • Perform leak detection surveys, encroachment inspections, and population density surveys.
  • Monitor pipeline pressures, flow rates, temperatures, and operating conditions
  • Perform pipeline startups, shutdowns, product transfers, tank switches, and line changes.
  • Conduct tank gauging, custody transfer measurements, inventory reconciliation, and crude oil product sampling
  • Performs pigging operations, hydrotesting, integrity digs, and pipeline maintenance activities
  • Isolate and prepare equipment for maintenance using established lockout/tagout procedures
  • Inspect and operate pumps, valves, meters, LACT units, and pipeline control equipment
  • Identify abnormal operating conditions and initiate appropriate corrective actions
  • Respond to pipeline alarms, operational upsets, equipment failures, spills, and emergency situations
  • Assist with spill response and emergency response activities
  • Ensure contractors comply with Company safety and environmental requirements
  • Maintain accurate operational logs, inspection reports, maintenance records, and regulatory documentation
  • Support compliance with DOT, PHMSA, CPUC, OSHA, EPA, and Company operating procedures
  • Participate in safety meetings, emergency drills, operator qualification programs, and required training
  • The Operator position is based at the Company's Santa Maria office location
  • Monday-through-Friday position, with occasional on-call responsibilities requiring night and weekend work
  • Perform other duties as assigned
POSITION SPECIFICATIONS:
  • High school diploma or GED required; Associate degree in a technical discipline preferred
  • Utility or industry experience preferred, with a background in pipeline construction, excavation, and pipeline maintenance
  • Prior experience in pipeline or oil and gas operations preferred
  • Must possess a valid driver's license with a satisfactory driving record
  • Proven track record of safe work practices
  • Basic computer skills, including MS Office and other company software
  • Basic math skills (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, and decimals)
  • Experience reading and interpreting blueprints, P&IDs, and other technical diagrams
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to work well within a team, take direction from supervisors, adhere to work schedules, and follow policies and procedures
  • Ability to speak and understand English fluently
  • Detail-oriented with the ability to follow work rules and maintain accurate documentation

PAY INFORMATION: Hourly Rate: $46 - $58
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
The position requires manual dexterity to handle documents and operate office equipment such as fax machines, copiers, printers, shredders, and computers. Also required is performing repetitive motions and extended periods of sitting, standing, and walking for varying lengths of time. The position requires interacting and communicating professionally with others via speaking, hearing and writing, learning new tasks, processes and concepts, thinking to solve problems, concentrating on required tasks, distinguishing color and depth perception and reading data, figures, electronic and hard copy documents.
The position requires frequent stooping, bending, squatting, crawling, crouching, pushing, reaching, pulling, lifting, grasping, fingering, reaching over the shoulders and below the waist, carrying of up to 75 lbs. while walking, lifting up to 95 lbs. to waist level and lifting up to 65 lbs. over shoulder level, the continuous use of both hands, arms, and feet and the manual dexterity to operate heavy and light tools, equipment, and materials.
The position requires walking or traversing over and across uneven terrain, accessing areas outdoors and on or around equipment, over or around obstacles or structures such as pipes, low rails, and walls, stooping or bending to reach certain locations, climbing stairs or ladders, and exposure to outside weather conditions.
The position requires wearing personal protection equipment such as gloves, gas mask, suits, etc. with an average weight of 10-25 pounds.
DISCLAIMER:
The position description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. The essential duties, responsibilities, and physical requirements above describe those functions that are essential to the performance of this job. The above description does not include all of the duties and responsibilities assigned to this position. Employees holding this position will be required to perform any other job-related duties as requested by management.
An Equal Opportunity Employer: race, gender, disability, and Veteran status.

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