Petroleum processors run machines that change crude oil into gasoline, motor oil, and other products. The oil refining process is mechanized.
Most workers check gauges and adjust machinery as the liquids move through the equipment.
Pumpers control the systems that move oil, water, and chemicals through the various pipes in the refinery. They follow operating schedules that tell them what time each liquid should be moved. Pumpers know how much liquid can flow through each pipeline and how it is connected to other pipelines. They use this knowledge to plan the rate of flow for each liquid. They press buttons to start the pumps and turn valves to control the flow.