Gas Controller

Howard Energy Partners•San Antonio, TX

About The Position

The Gas Controller monitors and controls pipeline systems remotely from the Control Room using the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system. The role supports the safe and uninterrupted transportation of natural gas and liquids, maintains system integrity, and responds to alarms and operational changes in compliance with Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) regulations and company procedures. The position has three levels, each reflecting increasing autonomy, technical expertise, and leadership responsibilities. Level I works under close supervision while learning SCADA operations and control room procedures. Level II works under moderate supervision and independently manages standard operational scenarios. Level III works under minimal supervision, assists with leadership responsibilities during supervisory absences, trains junior controllers, and supports accurate control room documentation and communication.

Requirements

All levels must work effectively in a 24/7 operational environment with rotating shifts.
All levels must maintain high attention to detail in monitoring and reporting.
All levels must exercise sound judgment to uphold safety and regulatory compliance.
All levels must meet the physical and scheduling demands required for shift-based operations.
Level I: High school diploma or equivalent; basic understanding of gas control operations and SCADA systems; strong communication and problem-solving skills; willingness to learn and follow safety protocols.
Level II: High school diploma or equivalent; minimum of 3 years of controller experience; strong understanding of SCADA systems, gas flow management, and regulatory requirements; ability to operate independently in routine operations.
Level III: High school diploma or equivalent; minimum of 5 years of experience, including advanced gas control or field-related experience; expert proficiency in gas control operations; leadership, training, communication, and detailed record-management abilities; ability to support supervisors in administrative responsibilities.
All levels must obtain and maintain a Pipeline Control Operator Certification in good standing.

Nice To Haves

Level I: At least 1 year of controller experience preferred.

Responsibilities

Monitor pipeline integrity and respond to alarms and operational alerts through the SCADA system.
Coordinate emergency response efforts and make appropriate internal and external notifications.
Ensure uninterrupted transportation of natural gas and liquids through the pipeline system.
Monitor system performance and notify appropriate personnel when maintenance or calibration is needed.
Set flow rates and remotely operate control valves to meet scheduled customer nominations and maintain required pressure levels.
Work with field personnel to troubleshoot and resolve equipment issues affecting pipeline operations.
Maintain accurate call logs, abnormal operating condition records, and operational event documentation.
Ensure gas quality at receipt and delivery points meets applicable tariff specifications.
Collaborate with field measurement teams, Instrumentation and Electrical (I&E) staff, and SCADA teams to perform point-to-point system verification.
Comply with PHMSA Control Room Management regulations and internal operating procedures.
Assist customers and internal operations teams as needed.
Perform other related duties as assigned.
At Level III, assist with leadership responsibilities during supervisory absences, train junior controllers, and support the accuracy and completeness of control room documentation and communication.