Wellhead Pumper Salary & Career Guide 2025: $44,100–$98,170
The median wellhead pumper earns $69,960 a year, or about $34 an hour, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That places this oil-and-gas occupation solidly in the middle class, with the top 10% of earners pulling in $98,170 and entry-level positions starting around $44,100. With 17,990 jobs nationally and roughly 2,000 openings each year, it's a niche but steady field—if you're willing to work in remote locations.
How much Wellhead Pumpers earn
The mean annual wage for wellhead pumpers is $70,370. Most pumpers earn between $44,100 (10th percentile) and $98,170 (90th percentile). Pay is largely driven by geography and experience—entry-level jobs at smaller operators pay less, while experienced workers in oil-rich states can approach six figures.
Overtime is common in this field, especially during drilling rushes or when equipment fails. Some employers also offer housing or per diem for remote sites, which can effectively boost total compensation above the reported base pay.
Pay by state
Where you work matters a lot. North Dakota tops the list at $79,820, thanks to the Bakken shale play. New Mexico is close behind at $78,010, followed by Louisiana ($76,930), Texas ($75,860), and Colorado ($72,700). These states dominate oil production and pay premiums for experienced pumpers.
On the low end, Michigan pays a median of $47,630, Ohio $46,750, and Pennsylvania just $45,490—partly because these states have more conventional, lower-volume wells. If maximizing income is the goal, the Rockies, Permian Basin, or Gulf Coast markets pay best.
How to become a Wellhead Pumper
Most wellhead pumpers learn on the job, starting as helpers or roustabouts. A high school diploma or GED is the typical minimum requirement. Formal education beyond that is rare, though a certificate in oil and gas technology from a community college can help you get hired faster.
Some states require pumpers to hold a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) to operate service trucks. Employer-paid training includes safety certifications like H2S (hydrogen sulfide) awareness, confined-space entry, and sometimes a well-control certificate. Physical stamina and mechanical aptitude are musts, as the work involves lifting heavy equipment, climbing tanks, and troubleshooting pumps in all weather.
- High school diploma or GED
- Entry-level helper or roustabout job
- On-the-job training (6–12 months typical)
- CDL often required by employers
- Safety certifications: H2S, confined space, well control
Job outlook
BLS projects a 4.7% employment decline from 2024 to 2034, meaning about 2,000 openings per year. Most openings will come from retirements and workers leaving the industry rather than new job creation. Automation and more efficient well designs reduce the need for manual pumper labor, but existing wells still require maintenance and monitoring.
Pessimistic as that sounds, the occupation isn't disappearing. The 2,000 annual openings provide a steady churn, especially in oil-heavy states. Workers willing to relocate or work in remote areas will have the best chances. The median age of wellhead pumpers is high (mid-40s), so retirements will create slots for a decade or more.
Frequently asked questions
What does a wellhead pumper do?
Pumpers operate and maintain the equipment at oil and gas wells, monitoring pressure gauges, adjusting valves, collecting samples, and performing minor repairs. They work outdoors at well sites, often alone.
What is the highest-paying state for wellhead pumpers?
North Dakota pays the highest median wage at $79,820 per year, according to BLS data. New Mexico, Louisiana, Texas, and Colorado are also top payers.
Is wellhead pumper a dying career?
Employment is projected to decline 4.7% over the next decade, but about 2,000 openings per year will occur as workers retire or leave. It's a shrinking but not disappearing field.
Do you need a degree to be a wellhead pumper?
No. A high school diploma and on-the-job training are standard. A CDL and safety certifications are often required by employers.
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 Wellhead Pumpers data.