Pump Operators, Except Wellhead Pumpers Salary & Career Guide for 2025
The median annual wage for Pump Operators, Except Wellhead Pumpers is $61,770, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The mean hourly wage is about $30. Top earners in the 90th percentile make over $91,820, while those just starting out earn around $39,420.
How much Pump Operators, Except Wellhead Pumpers earn
The national median salary is $61,770 per year. The mean annual wage is $63,960. Hourly, that works out to roughly $30.75 on average.
The lowest 10% of earners make about $39,420 or less; the highest 10% earn $91,820 or more. Most pump operators fall between $47,000 and $77,000.
Pay by state
Where you work dramatically affects your paycheck. The highest-paying state is Illinois, at $92,310. North Dakota comes next at $81,400, followed by Alaska at $80,210, Wyoming at $77,820, and Connecticut at $71,890.
On the lower end, Nebraska pays $46,170, North Carolina $45,890, and Missouri $44,650. That's roughly half of what Illinois operators earn.
How to become Pump Operators, Except Wellhead Pumper
Most pump operators learn on the job. High school diploma or equivalent is typically required. Vocational training or an associate degree in industrial maintenance or a related field can help.
Some employers prefer candidates with a commercial driver's license (CDL) or experience in heavy equipment operation. On-the-job training usually lasts a few months to a year. Certification isn't mandatory but can boost hiring odds.
- Earn a high school diploma or GED.
- Complete vocational training in mechanics or industrial systems (optional).
- Gain entry-level experience in construction, mining, or manufacturing.
- Obtain necessary licenses (e.g., CDL) if required by employer.
- Undergo on-the-job training specific to pump equipment and safety.
Job outlook
The BLS projects 2.6% employment growth from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations. That translates to roughly 1,500 job openings each year, mostly due to retirements and turnover.
Employment stands at 9,780 workers nationally. While growth is modest, the steady churn of workers creates consistent opportunities for new entrants.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary for Pump Operators, Except Wellhead Pumpers?
The national median salary is $61,770 per year. The typical range is $39,420 to $91,820.
How do you become a pump operator?
You typically need a high school diploma and on-the-job training. Some employers prefer a CDL or vocational training in industrial mechanics.
What is the job growth for pump operators?
Employment is projected to grow 2.6% from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as average, with about 1,500 openings per year.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Pump Operators, Except Wellhead Pumpers data.