Service Unit Operators, Oil and Gas
Operate equipment to increase oil flow from producing wells or to remove stuck pipe, casing, tools, or other obstructions from drilling wells. Includes fishing-tool technicians.
Common Job Titles
- Pulling Unit Operator
- Rig Operator
- Service Operator
- Service Rig Operator
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- Hands-onOperate specialized oil and gas production equipment including hydraulic pumping systems, cement pumps, and downhole retrieval tools in drilling and production well environments to increase oil flow and remove obstructions.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate equipment performance data and process indicators using pressure indicators, depth gauges, and SCADA software to ensure optimal well operations.Proficient
- KnowledgeDiagnose mechanical failures and wellbore obstructions using sonar equipment and downhole diagnostic tools to determine appropriate remediation strategies.Proficient
- KnowledgeAnalyze wellbore conditions and equipment malfunctions applying knowledge of mechanical systems, physics, and engineering principles to solve complex field problems.Proficient
- MindsetIntegrate safety protocols with operational procedures when working with high-pressure equipment and hazardous materials in compliance with public safety regulations.Proficient
- Hands-onCoordinate fishing-tool operations to retrieve stuck pipe, casing, and downhole objects leading service crews and operating specialized retrieval equipment under time-critical conditions.Proficient
- Hands-onPerform maintenance and repair tasks on mechanical equipment including sucker rods, wellhead drives, and hoisting systems to maintain operational readiness.Developing
- MindsetEngage in team coordination and communication with supervisors, field personnel, and clients to plan and execute service operations effectively.Developing
- KnowledgeExplain equipment operation procedures and safety requirements when training and coaching crew members on service unit operations and maintenance practices.Developing
- KnowledgeCalculate pressure, volume, and material specifications using mathematical principles to determine operational parameters for cementing and stimulation jobs.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Service Unit Operators, Oil and Gas (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
44,120
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $40,010. 25th percentile: U.S. $47,330. 50th percentile: U.S. $57,980. 75th percentile: U.S. $70,510. 90th percentile: U.S. $93,820. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $40,010 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $93,820 |
| Workers on average earn | $61,530 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Mechanical4.0/5
- Mathematics3.9/5
- Customer and Personal Service3.7/5
- Engineering and Technology3.4/5
- Public Safety and Security3.3/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft SharePoint
- Microsoft Word
- SAP software
Technology Skills
- Computerized maintenance management system CMMS
- Data logger software
- Inventory tracking software
- Supervisory control and data acquisition SCADA software
- Time and attendance software
Tools & Equipment
- Adjustable hand wrenches
- Cement mixers
- Cement pumps
- Channel lock pliers
- Chemical casing cutters
- Chemical pipe cutters
- Claw hammers
- Continuous sucker rods