Some states require technicians to obtain licensing to operate propane equipment.
Propane is a hydrocarbon or liquefied petroleum gas used to power homes, vehicles and machines. Every day, millions of Americans use propane to cook in their homes, power appliances, and run air conditioning units. Propane technicians install, repair and maintain propane equipment for residences, businesses and factories.They typically work at gas plants, utility companies and propane retailers. Average salaries for propane technicians range depending on factors such as geography and experience level.
Function and Average Salary
The national average salary for propane technicians was $42,000 per year, according to a July 2011 Indeed report. Propane technicians are responsible for a variety of activities, including inspecting, fixing and delivering propane tanks and equipment. They must also make sure that installations comply with government regulations and standard industry procedures. Jobs for propane technicians often require physical activity such as lifting and carrying heavy objects, crawling under buildings and working outside in all types of weather. Strong customer service skills are also required, since propane technicians must interact frequently with customers and other colleagues.
Geography
Average salaries for propane technicians differed across various regions, according to a July 2011 SalaryExpert report. For example, the average salary for propane operators in Atlanta was $49,572 per year. Propane operators working in Dallas reported an annual wage of $51,710 per year. Workers in Orlando received an annual wage of $32,476 annually. In Phoenix, propane operators reported an average salary of $44,363. Propane operators in Miami and Chicago averaged $35,572 and $47,713 respectively.
Potential
Propane technicians with experience are competitively positioned for jobs with higher salaries and growth potential. In addition, employers prefer candidates with formal training from a college or technical school. Propane technicians can also increase their salary potential by advancing to inspector or managerial roles. For example, Salary Expert showed that gas inspectors averaged salaries ranging between $60,078 to as high as $89,539 in selected metropolitan areas. Gas plant operators received an average salary of $57,660, according to a Bureau of Labor Statistics May 2010 report.
Job Outlook
The BLS revealed that jobs in the mining industry, which include petroleum workers, will decline 14 percent through the year 2018. Environmental legislation and global competition may curb growth in the oil and gas industries. Despite employment declines, propane technicians will be needed to replace workers retiring or exiting the sector.
