Entry Field Operator - Line Locator

Producers Midstream•Hobbs, NM

17d•Onsite

About The Position

The Entry-Level Field Operator / Line Locator assists with the safe operation, inspection, and maintenance of natural gas pipelines and associated field facilities while learning pipeline locating responsibilities. This is a developmental, entry-level role for someone interested in a career in natural gas pipeline and field operations. The employee receives on-the-job training and works under experienced Field Operators, Line Locators, and Field Supervisors while completing safety and Operator Qualification (OQ) training. The position supports pipeline locating, inspections, preventative maintenance, equipment monitoring, documentation, and other field activities. Work is primarily outdoors at pipelines, rights-of-way, compressor stations, measurement facilities, and other field locations, with frequent driving between sites. The role involves exposure to changing weather, noise, dust, dirt, natural gas facilities, moving equipment, and uneven terrain. Overtime, on-call work after qualification, weekends, holidays, and emergency response may be required based on operational needs.

Requirements

Previous oil and gas or pipeline experience is not required; entry-level candidates are encouraged to apply.
Basic mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn pipeline and natural gas operations.
Ability to learn to use electronic pipeline-locating equipment and associated software.
Ability to learn to read pipeline maps, drawings, gauges, and equipment documentation.
Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office or comparable programs.
Ability to safely use basic hand and power tools.
Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
Ability and willingness to complete required safety, environmental, and Operator Qualification training.
Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license in the employee's state of residence.
Must be willing to travel throughout the assigned operating area and live within approximately 60–65 miles of the reporting location to accommodate operational call-outs.
Once qualified for the on-call rotation, must be able to respond to call-outs within two hours.
Must be available for overtime, weekends, holidays, and emergency response when required.
Ability to learn natural gas pipeline and midstream field operations and proper pipeline locating and marking procedures.
Ability to recognize and report equipment problems, abnormal conditions, and safety concerns.
Ability to read and interpret basic gauges, maps, equipment logs, and operating information.
Ability to follow safety procedures and work safely around operating equipment and pipelines.
Ability to communicate clearly and professionally, verbally and in writing, and work effectively independently and as part of a field operations team.
Ability to develop effective working relationships with coworkers, contractors, vendors, and the public.
Ability to work outdoors in varying weather and field conditions.
Ability to perform field duties involving prolonged stationary positions, hand and mechanical tools, and inspections that may require vehicle operation, bending, stooping, climbing, crawling, kneeling, and visual acuity.
Ability to occasionally lift objects weighing up to 50 pounds unassisted.

Nice To Haves

Experience in construction, utilities, mechanical work, agriculture, automotive, industrial operations, oil and gas, or another hands-on environment is preferred but not required.
A high school diploma or GED equivalent is helpful but not required.
Knowledge of computer usage and Microsoft Office or comparable products.
Knowledge of natural gas pipeline maintenance and repair.
Basic reading and mathematics as applied to equipment maintenance.
Knowledge of accepted safety standards and methods for natural gas pipelines.
Knowledge of pertinent federal, state, and local health and safety laws, codes, and regulations.
Experience or understanding of natural gas compression and driven equipment.
Experience or understanding of dehydration facilities.

Responsibilities

Learn to locate and mark underground pipelines and associated facilities using electronic locating equipment, maps, and other resources.
Assist with routine and emergency line locating for excavation, construction, maintenance, and third-party work.
Learn to read and interpret pipeline maps, drawings, and facility information.
Assist in monitoring excavation and construction near Company pipelines and facilities, and communicate safe-digging practices to relevant personnel.
Learn Company encroachment requirements and applicable safe-digging procedures; maintain accurate locating records and documentation.
Use, inspect, and maintain line-locating equipment and assigned tools, and learn the Company's locating system, including Korweb or applicable systems.
Assist with inspection, operation, and basic maintenance of natural gas pipelines and field equipment.
Learn basic operation of pipeline systems, measurement equipment, valves, dehydration equipment, and compression facilities.
Assist experienced operators with preventative maintenance, including pigging, sample collection, greasing valves, changing filters, and inspecting connections.
Perform routine field inspections and identify and report abnormal operating conditions, leaks, equipment problems, and safety concerns.
Read gauges, equipment logs, and operating information under supervision.
Maintain housekeeping at pipeline facilities, compressor locations, and other assigned work areas.
Assist with minor maintenance and repairs within the employee's training and qualifications.
Complete required daily, weekly, and monthly field documentation.
Participate in the Operator Qualification (OQ) Program and complete assigned safety and other training.
Follow Company safety policies, procedures, and environmental requirements; participate in safety meetings, training, and initiatives.
Communicate with coworkers, supervisors, control centers, contractors, third-party pipeline companies, and other operating groups.
Work assigned schedules, be available for overtime as needed, and participate in an on-call rotation once appropriately trained and qualified.
Maintain a valid driver's license and safely operate Company vehicles.
Travel throughout the assigned operating area and perform other related duties as assigned.