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Career Details : Gaugers

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Description

Gauge and test oil in storage tanks. Regulate flow of oil into pipelines at wells, tank farms, refineries, and marine and rail terminals, following prescribed standards and regulations.

Experience

Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.

Education

Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree. Some may require a bachelor's degree.

Training

Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers.

Tasks

  • Calculates test results, using standard formulas.
  • Regulates flow of products into pipelines, using automated pumping equipment.
  • Records readings and test results.
  • Tightens connections with wrenches and greases and oils valves, using grease gum and oil can.
  • Lowers thermometer into tanks to obtain temperature reading.
  • Clamps seal around valves to secure tanks.
  • Turns bleeder valves or lowers sample container into tank to obtain oil sample.
  • Reports leaks or defective valves to maintenance.
  • Starts pumps and opens valves to regulate flow of oil into and out of tanks, according to delivery schedules.
  • Reads automatic gauges at specified intervals to determine flow rate of oil into or from tanks and amount of oil in tanks.
  • Operates pumps, teletype, and mobile radio.
  • Inspects pipelines, valves, and flanges to detect malfunctions, such as loose connections and leaks.
  • Gauges quality of oil in storage tanks before and after delivery, using calibrated steel tape and conversion.
  • Gauges tank containing petroleum and natural gas byproducts, such as condensate or natural gasoline.
  • Tests oil to determine amount of bottom sediment, water, and foreign materials, using centrifugal tester.
  • Records meter and pressure readings at gas well.

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