Lease Operator

RWDY Inc•Carlsbad, NM

7d•$37 - $47

About The Position

The Lease Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient operation, monitoring, and maintenance preparation of wells, processing units, and related oil & gas facilities. This role places a strong emphasis on oil, gas, and water separation operations, utilities, and facility optimization. The position supports a large-scale project environment that includes new facility start-ups, operating tools, permitting processes, and required training. Candidates with experience in new facility commissioning, startup operations, and production operations are strongly preferred.

Requirements

High School Diploma (college degree or trade certification preferred)
Prior experience in a closely related oil & gas operations role
Strong understanding of surface production equipment
Knowledge of oil & gas process flow and facility operations
Strong computer skills and data entry capability
Effective verbal and written communication skills
Ability to work rotating schedules and respond to call-outs
Physically capable of lifting over 50 lbs and climbing ladders/stairways
Ability to wear SCBA and use safety detection equipment
Proven teamwork and interpersonal skills
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision

Nice To Haves

Lease operating or pumper experience
New facility startup or commissioning experience
Permitting experience
Oversight of small field crews (2–3 personnel)
Multicultural work environment exposure

Responsibilities

Ensure personal and coworker safety; follow and enforce all safety policies and procedures
Serve as the primary operations contact for assigned facilities
Participate in daily safety meetings, toolbox talks, and continuous improvement efforts
Issue Safe Work Permits with a thorough understanding of operational risks
Conduct gas testing to ensure safe work conditions
Support emergency response activities as required
Monitor wells, processing units, and surface facilities for proper operation
Inspect equipment using sight, sound, smell, and touch
Review computer data and schematics to optimize process flow
Gauge tanks, read meters, collect samples, and record production data
Monitor temperatures, pressures, levels, flows, vibrations, and chemical injection rates
Adjust operating parameters to maintain product specifications
Maintain accurate gauge sheets and document production changes
Perform basic maintenance (filters, lubrication, valve packing, steam traps, etc.)
Ensure wellhead and surface equipment readiness prior to workover activities
Coordinate oil sales and saltwater hauling
Communicate operational status and issues to Production Foreman
Perform seasonal equipment preparation (winterization/summerization)
Maintain company vehicle in safe operating condition
Execute work in compliance with environmental policies and regulatory requirements
Minimize environmental impacts such as spills and emissions
Inspect and maintain safety equipment (fire extinguishers, breathing apparatus, safety valves)
Support environmental and regulatory compliance initiatives