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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

Median wage

$98,080

Typical education

High school (GED)

Growth 2026–2032

-1%

Median wage source: Colorado BLS OEWS (2025).

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Career requirements

What does this career require?

Explore education, required qualifications, voluntary credentials and employer preferences for this role. Check the details to see which apply.

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

The type of work can vary by job and employer.

  • With childrenNo
  • On a computerMay vary
  • OutdoorsMay vary
  • With your handsMay vary

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

  1. Control operation of compressors, scrubbers, evaporators, and refrigeration equipment to liquefy, compress, or regasify natural gas.
  2. Control equipment to regulate flow and pressure of gas to feedlines of boilers, furnaces, and related steam-generating or heating equipment.
  3. Contact maintenance crews when necessary.
  4. Signal or direct workers who tend auxiliary equipment.
  5. Monitor equipment functioning, observe temperature, level, and flow gauges, and perform regular unit checks to ensure that all equipment is operating as it should.
  6. Record, review, and compile operations records, test results, and gauge readings such as temperatures, pressures, concentrations, and flows.
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