Description
Operate stationary and portable pumps and manifold systems to transfer crude oil and petroleum products between tanks, pipelines, trucks, and process units, monitoring and controlling flows, levels, and pressures for safe, efficient, and accurate movements.
- • Monitor gauges, transmitters, and flowmeters to maintain specified tank levels, temperatures, and pressures; report abnormalities.
- • Record custody-transfer data such as volumes, temperatures, API gravity, start/stop times, and batch identifiers.
- • Coordinate starts, stops, and lineups with control room, loaders, and pipeline, marine, or truck operators via radio or phone.
- • Gauge storage tanks using API tape or read automatic tank gauging to verify inventory and water cut; update tank charts.
- • Line up valves and manifolds and start or stop pumps to load, unload, circulate, or transfer crude oil and products.
- • Plan product movements through pipelines, headers, and tankage based on capacities, compatibility, and schedules.
- • Follow operating schedules or dispatch orders to determine quantities and destinations to be pumped.
- • Perform routine maintenance: clean strainers, lubricate equipment, tighten fittings, and assist with minor pump repairs under lockout/tagout.
- • Collect oil and BS&W samples for laboratory analysis and deliver samples as required.
- • Connect and disconnect hoses or loading arms; verify gaskets, grounding/bonding, and vapor recovery connections.
- • Operate auxiliary systems such as vapor recovery units, heating coils, and heat exchangers to meet product specifications.
- • Inject additives or corrosion inhibitors and adjust dosages to meet quality requirements.
- • Blend crude or products in tanks by controlled recirculation or multi-source pumping per instructions.
- • Use field test equipment (thermometer, hydrometer, water cut) to check product quality and temperature.
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Supply Chain & Transportation
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Tasks & skills:
O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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Last reviewed: Jan 2026
