Operator Qualifications Specialist

wsb•Denver, CO

7d•Remote

About The Position

The Operator Qualification Specialist is responsible for developing, implementing, administering, and maintaining the company’s Operator Qualification (OQ) program to ensure compliance with federal regulations (such as PHMSA/DOT 49 CFR Part 192 Subpart N and Part 195 Subpart G) and state requirements. This role focuses on verifying that employees, contractors, and other personnel performing “covered tasks” on pipeline facilities or related operations are properly trained, evaluated, and qualified to perform their duties safely and effectively. The OQ Specialist plays a critical role in promoting public and employee safety, reducing human error risks, and ensuring audit-ready compliance in industries such as natural gas, hazardous liquids pipelines, utilities, or energy operations.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED required.
3–5+ years of experience in pipeline operations, gas utilities, maintenance, or a related technical field.
In-depth knowledge of DOT/PHMSA Operator Qualification regulations and pipeline safety standards.
Strong understanding of covered tasks and evaluation methods (knowledge, skills, and ability to recognize abnormal conditions).
Excellent communication, coaching, and interpersonal skills.
Detail-oriented with strong organizational and record-keeping abilities.
Proficiency with learning management systems, Microsoft Office, and compliance software.
Ability to work independently and handle multiple priorities.
Physical capability for field work (e.g., lifting, outdoor environments) where applicable.
Must comply with company safety policies, drug/alcohol testing, and background checks.

Nice To Haves

Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in a related field (e.g., Engineering, Occupational Safety, Technical Training, or Energy) preferred.
Direct experience with OQ programs, training, or evaluations strongly preferred.
Prior experience as an evaluator, trainer, or in a compliance/safety role is a plus.
Ability to obtain Relevant industry certifications (e.g., from Veriforce, Energy Worldnet/MEA, NCCER).

Responsibilities

Coordinate or deliver training (classroom, online, and hands-on) and conduct or oversee performance evaluations (knowledge tests, practical/field observations, simulations) for covered tasks. This may include areas like leak surveys, pipeline maintenance, plastic fusion, measurement & regulation, and abnormal operating conditions.
Ensure all individuals (employees and contractors) meeting qualification standards before work begins.
Maintain detailed, audit-ready records of qualifications, training, evaluations, and requalification's.
Support internal audits and regulatory inspections (PHMSA, state agencies).
Track qualification expirations, manage requalification schedules, and handle documentation in compliance management systems (e.g., EnergyWorldnet, EnergyU, Veriforce, or internal platforms).
Identify skill gaps or deficiencies through evaluations, observations, or incident reviews.
Recommend or provide remedial training and monitor effectiveness.
Work closely with operations, field supervisors, training department, contractors, and management to communicate requirements, resolve issues, and implement process improvements.
Stay current with changes in federal, state, and industry standards (e.g., ASME B31Q) and update the OQ program accordingly.
Participate in post-incident reviews and suspension/revocation processes when qualifications are in question.
Generate reports on program status, qualification compliance rates, and trends.
Contribute to the development of new evaluation tools, processes, or materials.