PU Outside Operator

Sullivan Environmental Services Inc•Galveston, TX

About The Position

The Outside Operator supports the safe and efficient operation of machinery and equipment at a construction or refining site. This hands-on role involves monitoring processes, troubleshooting and inspecting equipment, following safety and environmental standards, and working with team members and supervisors to maintain continuous operations, high-quality output, and minimal downtime. The position includes operating process equipment, collecting samples, adjusting operating conditions, performing inspections and minor maintenance, maintaining records, and communicating with the control room. The operator must participate in the Emergency Response Team for at least two years and work in a shift-based team environment. The role may provide a progression path to Board Operator for individuals who demonstrate technical knowledge, safety performance, communication skills, and operational excellence.

Requirements

Process Tech certificate, associate degree, or process experience operating and monitoring industrial equipment such as pumps, compressors, distillation columns, boilers, and other refining machinery.
Proven ability to troubleshoot equipment and process issues, perform routine maintenance including lubrication and inspections, make minor repairs, and take corrective actions.
High school diploma or equivalent.
Valid driver’s license.
Proven experience operating refining-related equipment.
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work in varying weather conditions, including hot, cold, and rain.
Ability to work rotating day and night shifts, weekends, holidays, and overtime as operational needs arise.
Ability to climb ladders, work at heights, walk long distances, and enter confined spaces with proper training and PPE.
Compliance with OSHA regulations, refinery safety rules, PSM standards, and environmental regulations including EPA/TCEQ.
Ability to wear required PPE, including FR clothing, hard hat, safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, and additional equipment as needed.
Legally authorized to work in the United States.
Ability to pass site-specific safety training, medical evaluations, and fit-for-duty assessments.
Must pass pre-employment drug/alcohol screening and background checks; random testing may be required per company policy.
Strong attention to detail in identifying equipment or safety issues.
Effective communication and teamwork across shifts and departments.
Problem-solving skills in high-pressure or fast-changing situations.
Commitment to maintaining a safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible workplace.

Nice To Haves

Certification in heavy equipment or refinery operations.
Background in construction, oil and gas, or industrial settings.
Familiarity with emergency response procedures and regulatory standards.
Proficiency in operating heavy equipment and monitoring technical processes.

Responsibilities

Operate and monitor process equipment, including pumps, compressors, distillation columns, and boilers.
Take product samples, climb tanks and towers, and manage equipment across various parts of the site.
Learn and apply laboratory testing procedures and interpret sample results to identify process abnormalities.
Adjust temperature, pressure, and flow to optimize operational efficiency and output.
Conduct pre-operation inspections and perform minor repairs and maintenance as needed.
Follow and enforce safety protocols, participate in safety drills, and respond effectively to emergencies.
Communicate routinely with the control room about field conditions, alarms, and abnormal situations, and carry out instructions during startups, shutdowns, and process upsets.
Maintain accurate logs and documentation.
Handle waste and materials according to regulations to ensure environmental compliance.
Demonstrate situational awareness and adhere to safe-work practices.
Maintain reliability, punctuality, and accountability in a shift-based team environment.
Participate in the Emergency Response Team for at least two years.
Perform other duties or activities assigned as business needs dictate.