High school courses in automobile shop or auto mechanics are helpful. Attendants may take training courses offered by some oil companies. A driver's license, a general understanding of how automobiles work, and some sales ability are important. Knowledge of math is important in order to figure change quickly and accurately. Dependability and willingness to work evenings, weekends, and some holidays are important.
Some employers require experience handling cash or working as a service station attendant.
Additional training may allow attendants to become auto mechanics. People with business management skills may move up to station managers. Some go into business for themselves by leasing a station from an oil company or buying a station. Oil companies hire some station managers as sales representatives or district managers. Most employers require workers to be physically able to perform the work.