Chesapeake, VA - Training & OQ Specialist

Position Overview

Southeast Connections, LLC provides inclusive infrastructure solutions for the natural gas industry. They construct systems and facilities to transport the nation's cleanest burning energy resource. The Training Specialist & OQ Specialist leads the company’s Training, Progression Plan, Operator Qualification program, and Safety Audit functions, ensuring full compliance with federal regulations and client requirements.

Essential Functions

• Develop and oversee the implementation of the company’s Training, Progression Program, OQ program to ensure full compliance with DOT/PHMSA regulations (49 CFR Part 192 & 195) and client-specific standards.
• Create and update Training Curriculum, OQ policies, procedures, and manuals.
• Schedule, coordinate and track OQ training, assessments, and re-qualifications for all applicable field personnel and contractors.
• Maintain up-to-date records and documentation of qualifications using approved OQ platforms (e.g., Industrial Training Service, Veriforce, MEA, or EWN).
• Serve as the primary point of contact for Training Schedule, Progression Schedule, OQ audits, Safety Audits, and client compliance requests, and regulatory inspections.
• Work collaboratively with field operations, safety, training, and HR teams to identify training needs and ensure timely qualification of employees.
• Oversee the training and evaluation process for personnel performing covered tasks.
• Conduct hands-on performance evaluations and proctor computer-based testing.
• Cook with trainers, evaluators, and third-party qualification providers.
• Ensure training content and delivery methods align with regulatory and internal standards.
• Monitor regulatory updates and industry changes to ensure the OQ program remains current and effective.
• Conduct internal audits and field evaluations to ensure adherence to qualification standards.
• Investigate incidents or failures related to unqualified personnel.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of the OQ program and implement improvements.
• Monitor industry best practices and emerging technologies in qualification and training.

Qualifications/Special Knowledge Skills

• Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Detail-oriented with strong analytical and documentation capabilities.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and database management systems.
• Certified OQ Evaluator or Trainer.
• Prior experience working for or with gas utilities, pipeline operators, or midstream service providers.
• Familiarity with pipeline construction, maintenance, and emergency response procedures.
• Knowledge of OSHA safety practices and other industry compliance programs.
• Must be able to work in fast-paced, safety-critical environments and respond quickly to compliance issues or audit findings.
• Proficient in EWN, ITS, Veriforce, and MEA.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) proficiency is a plus.

Education/Experience

• A minimum of 5 years of experience in Natural Gas Distribution Training, OQ compliance or pipeline operations within the natural gas industry.
• Strong knowledge of DOT/PHMSA regulations (49 CFR Part 192) and gas utility standards.
• Hands-on experience with OQ systems such as Industrial Training Service, Veriforce, MEA, or EWN.
• Experience managing contractor qualification programs.

Physical Requirements

• Regularly required to talk and listen.
• Often required to stand, walk, and use hands/fingers.
• Able to walk, lift, reach, stoop, stand, grasp, balance, climb, kneel, crouch, and lift up to 15 pounds frequently.
• Able to sit at a desk and work on a computer for prolonged periods of time.
• Able to travel up to 50% of the time.

Benefits

• Competitive salary packages
• Career advancement opportunities
• Comprehensive benefit program which includes Health, Dental, Disability and Life Insurance that starts on first day of employment.
• Employer Matching 401k program.
• Paid Time Off and an incredible work environment.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or have a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.