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Energy

Gas Compressor, Pump, and Pumping Station Operator

Operate steam-, gas-, electric motor-, or internal combustion-engine driven compressors. Transmit, compress, or recover gases, such as butane, nitrogen, hydrogen, and natural gas.

Annual openings

21

Median wage

$76,200

Typical education

High school (GED)

Growth 2026–2032

+3%

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

This is an entry-level role so no experience is required.

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.

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.

Automation exposure

Moderate exposure

Some routine tasks may shift as tools improve, but the role is likely to adapt.

A typical day

  1. Monitor meters and pressure gauges to determine consumption rate variations, temperatures, and pressures.
  2. Move controls and turn valves to start compressor engines, pumps, and auxiliary equipment.
  3. Operate power-driven pumps that transfer liquids, semi-liquids, gases, or powdered materials.
  4. Submit daily reports on facility operations.
  5. Take samples of gases and conduct chemical tests to determine gas quality and sulfur or moisture content, or send samples to laboratories for analysis.
  6. Turn knobs or switches to regulate pressures.
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