Lease Operator
About this role
Diagnose and solve well problems with a focus on ensuring production optimization. Proficient working knowledge of a production facility. Ability to bring on a well / facility with limited supervision. 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. Ability to repair dump valves and chokes. Ability to recognize when chemicals are necessary to optimize fluid separation and production. Ability to recognize when a well is liquid loading. Identifies liquid loading, potential artificial lift issues, etc. Complete 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 and II" and work with minimal supervision.
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
- Respond promptly to emergency and call out situations as required by work schedule
- Perform maintenance, repairs and inspection on production equipment as needed
- Ability to troubleshoot issues with wells and equipment
- Advanced troubleshooting skills and knowledge of all equipment maintained
- Lead, train, mentor "Operator I and II"
- Assists Foremen in the evaluation of Operator I and II personnel and aids in the development of training programs to develop Maintenance 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
- Has proficient understanding of industry terminology and technical knowledge.
- Proficient knowledge of the following: Components of process control (pressure and level controllers, control valves), and safety system devices (PSHL, LSHL, PSV, SDV).
- Preventive maintenance practices, troubleshooting, diagnostics, and repair of engines; Facilities construction practices, standards, and design.
- Ability to measure, cut, bend, run stainless steel tubing along piping or in a tray.
Lease Operator
- Gauge oil, water and gas daily and test wells as required.
- Manage daily production throughout the system and minimize downtime.
- Maintain production rate to optimize well performance.
- Daily production entry into AVM and verify data is complete and accurate. Ability to identify production equipment issues and report to supervisor.
- Conduct visual inspections of all surface equipment daily for leaks. Ability to assist maintenance operator with repair issues.
- Report all spills or environmental issues immediately.
- Ensure all production devices are operational and in good working order.
Computer/Software Applications:
- Proficient level of skills and familiarity with Microsoft Office.
- Proficient 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 4+ years of work experience required.
- Oil and gas industry 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.
Company at a glance
SM Energy Company is an independent energy company focused on the exploration, exploitation, development, acquisition, and production of natural gas and crude oil in the United States. The company was founded in 1908, incorporated in 1915, and became a public company through an initial public offering in 1992. SM Energy trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol SM.
At SM Energy, we also take seriously the manner in which we conduct our business. We strive to be recognized as an employer, partner, and customer of choice. Our core values are to:
- Conduct business with the highest ethical standards.
- Foster a rewarding and productive work environment.
- Ensure the health and safety of all who work at SM Energy facilities.
- Protect the environment.
*Support the communities where we live and work.
Top Benefits
- Variable pay
- Health care coverage
- Retirement plan
- Protection coverage
- Time off and leave programs
- Training and development opportunities
- Allowances
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