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Sucker Rod Pump Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Weatherford

Project Engineer - Rod Lift

Houston, TX · On-site

Direct experience with sucker rod pump components: barrels, plungers, valves, and couplings * Experience in the Permian Basin, Midcontinent , or other major rod lift producing regions * Master of ...

Istick Capital Management LLC

Echometer Tech

Iowa Park, TX · On-site

$36K - $44K/yr

Responsible for using Echometer equipment to analyze surface and downhole sucker rod pumping equipment to determine loads, efficiency, etc. * Participation in some training schools during normal ...

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Sucker Rod Pump information

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How much do sucker rod pump jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for sucker rod pump in the United States is $15.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Sucker Rod Pump?

A Sucker Rod Pump is a type of downhole pump used in the oil and gas industry to lift crude oil from wells to the surface. It operates as part of a mechanical system where a surface pump jack moves a string of sucker rods up and down, which in turn drives the pump located deep inside the well. This method is particularly effective for extracting oil from wells with low reservoir pressure or declining production rates. Sucker rod pumps are widely used due to their reliability, simplicity, and cost-effectiveness in various well conditions.

What are some common challenges faced by Sucker Rod Pump technicians in the oil and gas industry?

Sucker Rod Pump technicians often encounter challenges such as diagnosing pump failures, maintaining equipment in harsh field conditions, and ensuring efficient operation to minimize downtime. Working in remote locations can require adaptability and strong problem-solving skills, as well as close collaboration with production engineers and field crews. Regular maintenance, troubleshooting mechanical issues, and adhering to strict safety protocols are essential aspects of the role, making attention to detail and hands-on technical skills particularly important.

What is the difference between Sucker Rod Pump vs Downhole Pump?

AspectSucker Rod PumpDownhole Pump
CredentialsMechanical or petroleum engineering background, certifications in oilfield equipmentSimilar credentials, often with specialized training in artificial lift systems
Work EnvironmentSurface equipment, wellhead area, and surface facilitiesSubsurface, within the wellbore
Industry UsageCommon in onshore and offshore oil productionUsed in various artificial lift methods, including ESPs and PCPs
FunctionMechanically lifts fluid from the wellSubsurface fluid lifting via pump

The Sucker Rod Pump and Downhole Pump are both essential in oil production but serve different roles. The sucker rod pump operates on the surface and uses a reciprocating mechanism to lift fluids, while the downhole pump is installed within the wellbore to directly lift fluids from underground reservoirs. Understanding their differences helps in selecting the right equipment for efficient oil extraction.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Sucker Rod Pump Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sucker Rod Pump Technician, you need a solid understanding of mechanical systems, oilfield operations, and troubleshooting, often supported by vocational training or relevant field experience. Familiarity with industry-specific tools like dynamometers, torque wrenches, and well monitoring systems is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help technicians collaborate with teams and ensure safe, efficient operations. These skills are crucial for maximizing equipment performance, minimizing downtime, and ensuring safety in oil production environments.
Infographic showing various Sucker Rod Pump job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 3% As Needed, 39% Full Time, 55% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,000 per year, or $15.9 per hour.
Project Engineer - Rod Lift

Project Engineer - Rod Lift

Weatherford

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 10 hours ago

Weatherford rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

35th of 74 rated oil and gas companies

Job description

Job Overview:

Weatherford is seeking an experienced Project Engineer to join our Rod Lift Downhole Pumps team in Houston, TX. This is a hands-on, P3-level product engineering role where you'll take full ownership of projects from concept through production release. You'll work at the intersection of product design, manufacturing, and field performance, translating real-world challenges from demanding environments-like high-sand Permian Basin wells and corrosive, high-GOR applications-into durable, reliable engineering solutions for one of the world's most widely deployed artificial lift methods.

Responsibilities:

  • Lead product design and development of rod lift downhole pump components including barrels, plungers, valve cages, seats, and peripheral hardware

  • Own the full product lifecycle from concept, design, and prototype through testing, production release, and sustaining support

  • Create detailed 3D models and 2D production drawings using PTC Creo Parametric, including BOMs and specifications with proper GD&T

  • Select appropriate materials for oilfield environments (alloy steels, hard coatings, elastomers) considering wear, corrosion, and pressure conditions

  • Conduct engineering analyses including tolerance stack-ups, stress calculations, FEA, and design verification testing

  • Collaborate cross-functionally with manufacturing, field service, sales, and applications teams to ensure producible, cost-effective designs that incorporate customer feedback

  • Manage multiple concurrent projects with minimal supervision, maintaining schedule, budget, and quality targets

  • Maintain engineering documentation in PDM/PLM systems with proper revision control and design traceability

  • Support failure analysis investigations and translate findings into corrective design actions

  • Ensure compliance with API 11AX and related standards

Skills Required:

  • Strong mechanical engineering fundamentals: statics, dynamics, materials, and fluid mechanics

  • Proficiency in PTC Creo Parametric or equivalent 3D CAD (SolidWorks, NX, CATIA)

  • Ability to design precision-machined components with proper GD&T for production

  • Working knowledge of fluid mechanics and positive displacement pump hydraulics

  • Clear written and verbal communication skills with ability to present technical content to diverse audiences

  • Strong project management abilities with capacity to deliver on time with minimal supervision

Qualifications Required:

  • Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering or closely related field

  • 5-8+ years of experience in oil & gas mechanical, design, or field engineering

  • Hands-on experience with rod lift downhole pumps (field, manufacturing, or product design)

Qualifications Preferred:

  • Direct experience with sucker rod pump components: barrels, plungers, valves, and couplings

  • Experience in the Permian Basin, Midcontinent, or other major rod lift producing regions

  • Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering or Professional Engineer (PE) license

  • Experience with FEA/structural simulation tools (ANSYS or equivalent)

  • Proficiency with PTC Windchill or equivalent PDM/PLM system

  • Experience designing welded structures and weld-joint specifications

  • Familiarity with API 11AX and related artificial lift standards

  • Knowledge of NACE MR0175 / sour service material requirements

  • Experience with failure analysis methodologies (8D, fishbone, FMEA)

  • Familiarity with oilfield artificial lift systems broadly (ESP, gas lift, plunger lift)

  • Experience providing field technical support or conducting field trials

Travel Requirement: Up to 10% annually

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