Gas attendants operate gas pumps, collect payments, check fluid levels, and perform other tasks at full-service gas stations. In areas where self-service is legal, full-service options are available at a higher price. No education or experience is required, but basic knowledge of arithmetic and good customer service skills are necessary.
The duties of a gas attendant can vary from one area to another, as some local jurisdictions have laws that prevent motorists from filling their own gasoline. In these areas, a gas attendant’s main duties are to operate gas pumps and collect payments from customers. These attendants often check fluid levels, wiper blades, tires, and other motor vehicle components. If fluid levels are low or tires need air, gas attendants usually take care of these issues. Full-service options are also sometimes offered in areas where drivers can legally pump their own gasoline; in this case, the gas price will typically be increased to reflect the extra work performed by an attendant.
In the context of motor vehicle filling stations, there are two basic types of service. Self-service stations require drivers to power their own vehicles, while full-service stations provide attendants to perform this function. In some areas, full-service gas stations are required by law. This essentially means that drivers in these areas are legally barred from pumping their own gas; in this case, gas stations are obliged to provide attendants. At full-service stations, pumping gasoline is the primary duty of a gas attendant.
Gas station attendants are typically employed by full-service gas stations, although they may also perform a number of other roles at self-service stations. One of the tasks a gas attendant is typically expected to perform is checking the fluid and air levels. When a customer arrives for fuel, gas attendants typically ask permission to check the fluids in the brake reservoir, transmission, power steering pump, and other systems, as well as the air in the tires. If any of these levels are low, the agent can offer to top them up. Attendants also often check other items such as wiper blades and tire treads, and may also offer to wash a vehicle’s windows.
Depending on the specific service station, gas attendants may also perform a variety of housekeeping, inventory, and cleaning tasks. Sometimes they are required to clean office areas, restrooms, and sweep the exterior of a service station. Some agents also order inventory, check in the inventory as it arrives, and then shelve the individual items. If daily reporting functions are not computerized, a gas attendant may also need to prepare daily sales reports for gasoline, accessories, and other items.
There are typically no education or experience requirements to become a gas station attendant, although some knowledge of automobiles is helpful and many employers prefer to hire high school graduates. Basic knowledge of arithmetic is usually required to receive payments and make changes, and a strong inclination to provide good customer service is also required. Gas station attendants are also sometimes asked to provide directions to customers unfamiliar with the area; therefore, a strong knowledge of local roads and landmarks is also expected.
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