Because some local jurisdictions prohibit motorists from pumping their own gasoline, the duties of a gas attendant can vary from one area to the next. The primary responsibilities of a gas attendant in those areas are to operate gasoline pumps and collect payments from customers. Fluid levels, wiper blades, tires, and other vehicle components are frequently checked these attendants. When fluid levels are low or tires need air, gas attendants are often the first to respond. In areas where motorists can legally pump their own gas, full-service options are occasionally available, with the price of gas typically increased to reflect the additional work performed an attendant.
There are two types of services available at motor vehicle fueling stations. Self-service stations require drivers to fill up their own tanks, whereas full-service stations have attendants who do so. Full-service filling stations are required law in some areas. That means that motorists in those areas are legally prohibited from pumping their own gas, and filling stations must provide attendants in those cases. A gas attendant’s primary responsibility at full-service fueling stations is to pump gasoline.
Gas station attendants are typically employed full-service fueling stations, but they can also work at self-service stations and perform a variety of other tasks. Checking fluid and air levels is typically one of the responsibilities of a gas attendant. When a customer comes in for gas, the gas attendant will usually ask if they can check the brake reservoir, transmission, power steering pump, and other systems, as well as the air in the tires. The attendant may offer to top up any of these levels if they are low. Attendants frequently inspect other items such as wiper blades and tire treads, and they may even offer to wash a vehicle’s windows.
Gas attendants may also perform cleaning, stocking, and clerical duties, depending on the service station. They may be required to clean office areas, restrooms, and the exterior of a service station on occasion. Some attendants also place stock orders, check stock in when it arrives, and shelve individual items. A gas attendant may also be required to prepare daily sales reports for gasoline, accessories, and other items if daily reporting functions are not computerized.
To work as a gas station attendant, there are usually no educational or experience requirements, though some automotive knowledge is advantageous, and many employers prefer to hire high school graduates. To take payment and make change, a basic understanding of arithmetic is usually required, as is a strong desire to provide excellent customer service. Gas station attendants are occasionally asked to give directions to customers who are unfamiliar with the area, so they should have a good understanding of the area’s roads and landmarks.