Lease Operator I

Schedule: 8 days on / 6 days off

Position Level: 
MAIN FUNCTIONS Responsible for the safe, reliable, and efficient operation, monitoring, and maintenance readiness of wells, processing units, and associated facilities. This role places a strong emphasis on oil, gas, and water separation operations, major utilities, and a working knowledge of all supporting systems.

This is a large-scale project role that includes on-site facility startup activities, implementation and use of operating tools, procedures, work-permitting systems, and training programs. Candidates with prior experience supporting new facility startups and early-phase operations are highly desirable.

TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Maintain personal safety and ensure the safety of coworkers by following and enforcing all company safety policies and procedures.
• Serve as the primary operations contact for assigned facilities, with a thorough understanding of process flow, basic unit chemistry, major equipment lineups, and all safety and isolation systems.
• Review and interpret control system data and computer-generated schematics to ensure safe and optimized process operations.
• Conduct routine physical inspections of operating areas and equipment using sight, sound, smell, and touch to verify proper function and identify abnormalities.
• Issue Safe Work Permits, requiring a comprehensive understanding of current operating conditions and associated chemical, personnel, and process safety risks.
• Perform gas testing as required to confirm areas are safe for maintenance and operational activities.
• Execute process monitoring activities including tank gauging, meter readings, accurate data recording, product sampling, pressure differentials, chemical injection rates, and inspection for leaks, freezing, overheating, or other abnormal conditions.
• Perform “visual maintenance” by verifying critical operating parameters such as temperature, pressure, level, flow, and vibration remain within defined operating limits.
• Adjust local process parameters to maintain product quality and ensure operations remain within optimal specifications.
• Maintain company-assigned vehicles in safe, operable condition.
• Coordinate oil sales activities and saltwater hauling as required.
• Maintain accurate electronic and/or paper gauge sheets and document reasons for any production variances.
• Verify control valve positions to confirm correct system alignment.
• Perform basic equipment maintenance activities including lubrication, adding fluids, tightening packing, replacing filters and steam traps, and clearing blockages or equipment issues.
• Communicate regularly with the Production Foreman to stay informed of current process conditions and report any operational changes or concerns.
• Execute seasonal equipment preparations, including winterization and summerization, to maximize equipment reliability and efficiency.
• Monitor field equipment using handheld electronic devices and computer-based monitoring systems.
• Inspect and maintain safety equipment including relief valves, fire extinguishers, fire hoses, breathing apparatus, and other emergency response equipment.
• Actively participate in continuous improvement initiatives related to safety, operations, and reliability.
• Perform all work in compliance with environmental policies and procedures, with a strong focus on minimizing environmental impacts such as flaring and spills.
• Follow all company work rules and continuously develop job knowledge and technical skills.
• Demonstrate dependable attendance, the ability to work independently when required, and a commitment to supporting team objectives and business goals.

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma required; college degree or trade school certification preferred.
• Previous experience in a closely related operations role.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Willingness and ability to work a rotating shift schedule.
• Availability for call-out as operational needs require.
• Ability to work effectively in a multi-cultural work environment.
• Proven ability to operate, maintain, and perform basic repairs on surface equipment associated with oil and gas production.
• Strong computer proficiency with effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Physical ability to lift more than 50 pounds and climb ladders and stairways.
• Ability to use Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) and other safety monitoring and detection equipment.

Company-provided equipment: Gas monitor, computer, and phone.

With over 90 years' combined experience, NES Fircroft (NES) is proud to be the world's leading engineering staffing provider spanning the Oil & Gas, Power & Renewables, Chemicals, Construction & Infrastructure, Life Sciences, Mining and Manufacturing sectors worldwide. With more than 80 offices in 45 countries, we are able to provide our clients with the engineering and technical expertise they need, wherever and whenever it is needed. We offer contractors far more than a traditional recruitment service, supporting with everything from securing visas and work permits, to providing market-leading benefits packages and accommodation, ensuring they are safely and compliantly able to support our clients.