Job description

Gas plant operators oversee and function the operating equipment that processes gas for utility companies. They are responsible for the process and distribution of gas by managing control compressors, heat exchanges and purifying towers. Gas plant operators liquefy, compress or regasify natural gas for industrial use. They record, review and test operation records, readings and results such as temperatures, pressures, concentrations and flows.

Duties

    • Liquefy, compress or regasify natural gas using compressors, scrubbers and evaporators
    • Oversee and operate equipment such as control compressors, heat exchanges and purifying towers
    • Ensure proper and safe transportation of flammable and other dangerous products
    • Observe, record and test temperatures, pressures, concentrations and flows
    • Turn plant equipment on and off
    • Record, review and test operation records, readings and results
    • Clean, maintain and repair equipment
    • Oversee activities of other operators
    • Cooperate with other operators to ensure accurate procedures
    • Determine faults or errors with equipment

Skills and qualities

Critical thinking
Organisational
Problem-solving
Interpersonal
Communication
Dexterity
Mechanical
Safety-conscious
Mathematical
Technical

Job outlook

Projected growth
The projected growth rate of employment in the US from 2018 to 2028, based on data collected through the BLS Employment Projections (EP) programme. The national average growth rate for all professions is 5%.

-7%

New jobs
The number of jobs projected to become available in the US between 2018 and 2028, based on data collected through the BLS Employment Projections (EP) programme.

-1k

Automation risk
The probability of computerisation, based on data published in ‘The Future of Employment’, a 2013 working paper by Carl Benedikt Frey and Michael Osborne.

78%

Career progression

Some gas plant operators choose to change career focus and become power plant operators or water treatment plant and system operators. With enough experience, they might also advance to the position of commissioning manager, lead quality control or operation shift supervisor.

Working conditions

Average hours

40h/ week

Typical schedule

Full Time

Occasionally evenings or night shifts

Gas plant operators work indoors and are exposed to loud noises on a daily basis. They are required to wear protective gear, as they are regularly exposed to contaminants, hot and cold temperatures, and hazardous conditions.,/p>

These professionals are responsible for the health and safety of others, must work as part of a team, as well as communicate with others by telephone, email or face-to-face. Gas plant operators must be very careful with their work, as mistakes can result in serious safety hazards.

Salary

Bottom 10%

$46k

Median

$71k

Top 10%

$100k

Annual salary estimates are based on percentile wage data collected through the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) survey of US workers.

Qualifications and training

Education level

High school

On-the-job training

Study time

2 years

To become a gas plant operator, you will typically require a high school diploma at the very least. Long-term training (approximately two years) is provided on the job, although previous experience learning the trade at a technical or vocational school will be beneficial.

Last Updated: Wednesday, November 2, 2022

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