Lead Midstream Operator

Responsible for complex maintenance of oil and gas processing equipment. Diagnose and solve well problems with a focus on ensuring production optimization. Advanced working knowledge of a production facility. Ability to bring on a well / facility. Ability to operate production facility equipment including but not limited to: separators, back pressure regulators, pumping units, treaters, pressure regulators, liquid level controllers, PSV's, ESD's, motor valves and gas compressors. Actively engage with land owners and maintain strong relationships and communication to identify and resolve issues. Advanced working knowledge of facility construction practices. Understanding and awareness of cost metrics and analysis with the ability to make recommendations that have a positive financial impact. Completes testing of all safety devices to ensure equipment is functional within accepted standards. Maintains accurate records of all work performed into the company CMMS (Computer Maintenance Management System). The individual will be expected to train/mentor "Operator I, II, and III" and have technical expertise in all aspects of their role. This position is responsible for the daily operation and maintenance of assigned midstream facilities and pipelines, including all associated processing equipment. This position has minimum supervision and requires balancing of operations across all midstream systems. This role is the beginning stage of leadership helping develop crew members in all aspects related to the field.

Essential Roles & Responsibilities:

• Able to proficiently operate equipment, including but not limited to Treater, Separator, Dump Valves, Pumping Units, Back Pressure Regulators
• Demonstrates proficient knowledge of wells on route with the ability to walk through starting up a well and facility and ensuring all valves and equipment are set correctly
• Demonstrates proficient well head knowledge and proper valve operation
• Measures and records production accurately and timely on a daily basis
• Identify well performance problems and communicate to senior team member
• Maintain proper fluid levels and pressure on vessels
• Actively participate in safety meetings and respond to any emergency or call out situation
• Perform maintenance, repairs and inspection on production equipment as needed
• Ability to troubleshoot issues with wells and equipment
• Provide technical input for Management of Change projects
• Assist in the development of condition based management programs
• Provide input on well problems with a focus on life of well design to optimize maintenance and production
• Lead, train, mentor "Operator I, II, and III"
• Assists Foremen in the evaluation of Operator I and II personnel and aids in the development of training programs to develop personnel
• Assist in the development and implementation of scheduled maintenance plans
• Conduct business with the highest ethical standards; demonstrate decision-making skills that ensure the safety of all persons associated with SM facilities
• Other duties as assigned

Role-Specific Technical Knowledge & Skills

Advanced knowledge of the industry and operations. Advanced knowledge of all the components of process control and the safety system; Preventive maintenance and repair of all engines on SM property; Facilities construction and design. Installation of stainless steel tubing.

Midstream Operator --

• Mentoring Position with minimum supervision.
• Oversee routine inspections to ensure compliance with CHDPHE, EPA, COGCC, PHMSA, DOT and Company requirements.
• Verify all crew members are keeping up with the inspections on their assigned areas.
• Field enforcement of policies rolled out by management.
• Schedule/oversee maintenance/repairs on process equipment and pipelines.
• Train all team members on maintenance/repair standards.
• Understands gathering system and how to keep all systems balanced while keeping NOMs in acceptable ranges.
• Have input developing SOPs of each task we complete.
• Participate in monthly Safety Meetings and maintain Near Miss Reporting, JSA paperwork, Stop Work Authority, and LOTO.
• Analyze equipment, pipeline performance, data, and carry out tests to pinpoint problems or implement solutions.
• Oversee records of maintenance activities, repairs, and regulator inspections.
• Train crew members how to maintain product quality to sales points with minimal downtime.
• Observe data entry of production numbers, from tank gauges to meter readings, while verifying the numbers are correct with no deficiencies and take corrective action as needed.
• Operates a company vehicle safely, adheres to all driving laws and company vehicle use policies.
• Work in all weather conditions including rain, snow, mud, etc. - work is performed in hazardous driving and working conditions all season of the year.
• Provide all necessary departments with ongoing and accurate operational updates.
• Participate in the bigger projects, giving feedback on how to improve systems.
• Help prioritize projects to stay in line with LOE budget requirements.
• Other duties as assigned.

Computer/Software Applications:

• Proficient level of skills and familiarity with Microsoft Office.
• Advanced knowledge of the following discipline specific programs: Drilling: Well View, AFE Navigator; Completions: Well View; Facilities: Oceaneering ACET, eMaint CMMS; SCADA Technical skills that allow easy adaptation to other related applications (AVM).
• Proficient use of computer diagnostic systems used to troubleshoot electro-mechanical equipment.

Education:

• High School Diploma or Equivalent Required
• Associates or Bachelor's degree in related field preferred.

Typical Experience:

• Minimum 7+ years of work experience required.
• 2 years Oil and gas Operations experience required.
• Leadership experience a plus.

SM Energy offers competitive compensation and benefits programs which include, but are not limited to, variable pay, health care coverage, retirement plan, protection coverage, time off and leave programs, training and development opportunities and a range of allowances connected to specific work situations. Details are available at Careers :: SM Energy Company (SM) (sm-energy.com).

Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the position is filled.