Energy
Gas Plant Operator
Distribute or process gas for utility companies and others by controlling compressors to maintain specified pressures on main pipelines.
Annual openings
48
BLS median wage
$98,080
Typical education
High school (GED)
10-year growth
-1%
Career requirements
What does this career require?
The education, credentials, and on-the-job competencies Colorado employers expect for this role.
Typical education
High school (GED)
Credential requirement
No certification is required or expected for this job.
Work experience
Moderate on-the-job training and experience is expected, often gained through an apprenticeship.
Employer competency information
- Safety — Safety knowledge is critical from entry-level to top management.
- Working with Tools and Technology — Many of the technical roles use tools as an important part of their day-to-day job.
- Communication and Teamwork — Good communication skills are important both with team members and customers.
- Problem Solving, Decision Making, and Analytical Thinking — Many of the day-to-day activities of technical and customer service roles are related to solving problems.
One employer hired operators from a brewery to fill their Plant Operator roles.
Is this work a fit?
What the work actually feels like
How people in this career tend to spend their time, the interests it draws on, and a look at a typical day.
Work style
- With kids/peopleOccasionally
- On a computerOccasionally
- Outdoors / on-siteOccasionally
- With your handsOccasionally
Interests it draws on
- Trades
- Energy and Utilities
Automation exposure
Moderate exposure
Some routine tasks may shift as tools improve, but the role is likely to adapt.
A typical day
- Control operation of compressors, scrubbers, evaporators, and refrigeration equipment to liquefy, compress, or regasify natural gas.
- Control equipment to regulate flow and pressure of gas to feedlines of boilers, furnaces, and related steam-generating or heating equipment.
- Contact maintenance crews when necessary.
- Signal or direct workers who tend auxiliary equipment.
- Monitor equipment functioning, observe temperature, level, and flow gauges, and perform regular unit checks to ensure that all equipment is operating as it should.
- Record, review, and compile operations records, test results, and gauge readings such as temperatures, pressures, concentrations, and flows.