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CAREERMASH (EN)FROM ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY →

Pump Technician

Pump technicians keep pumping systems running smoothly in factories, water treatment plants, and oil rigs. They fix broken pumps, spot problems before they become expensive, and help industries use water and energy more efficiently.

Pump Technician

19

Engineering and Technology

AI IMPACT
AI EXPOSURE TODAY19
20-YEAR SCENARIO
NOT A FORECAST64%
THE DOOR · ENTRY DIFFICULTY TODAYB
STARTING PAY£22,000 - £27,000
PHYSICAL MOATThe work is hands-on, in the real world. Software alone can't do it.

THE DOOR: ENTRY DIFFICULTY TODAY, graded A (easy) to E (extremely hard). A Careermash rule-of-thumb index built from our AI exposure index and the job's moat class. It is not a forecast and not a count of job openings.

AI EXPOSURE TODAY is a Careermash index from 0 to 100 of how exposed this job's everyday tasks are to AI today. We estimate it by matching published research on how people use AI to this job, usually by keyword or subject area, and we lower it where the work is protected (for example by physical, personal or legal requirements). It is not a direct measurement of how much people in this job use AI.

This job holds up well against AI
AI exposure today is low on our index (19), and the work is hands-on, in the real world. Software alone can't do it. That is about as safe as careers get right now, though it is still worth learning to use the tools well.

The role

As a pump technician, you look after the pumps that move water, oil and other liquids around buildings and factories. Every day you inspect pumps to check they are working properly, fix any that have broken, and keep them running at their best. You might work in a factory, a water treatment plant, an office building or even outdoors in remote locations.

Your job involves getting your hands dirty. You will use tools to open up pumps, clean or replace broken parts, and test that everything works again. Sometimes you spot a small problem and fix it before it turns into a big breakdown that costs thousands of pounds. You need to be good with your hands, comfortable reading diagrams and understanding how mechanics work, and able to follow safety rules carefully because pumps can be dangerous if handled wrongly.

Daily responsibilities

  • Conduct routine inspections and maintenance on various types of pumps and pumping systems.
  • Diagnose and troubleshoot mechanical and electrical issues in pumping equipment.
  • Perform repairs and replacements of worn or damaged components, ensuring optimal performance.
  • Collaborate with engineers and other technicians to design and implement new pumping solutions.
  • Maintain accurate records of maintenance activities, repairs, and system performance.
  • Install new pumping systems and ensure they meet regulatory standards and specifications.
  • Provide technical support and training to clients on the operation and maintenance of pumps.
  • Stay updated on industry trends and advancements in pumping technology.

Does a degree help here?

A UK degree equips candidates with a robust understanding of engineering principles and practical skills, making them highly attractive to employers. The UK's strong focus on hands-on experience and industry-relevant coursework prepares graduates to tackle real-world challenges in pump technology.