Operations Specialist
About the role
The Operations Specialist will be based out of Kinder Morgan's Southern Natural Gas (SNG) Enterprise Compressor Station. Kinder Morgan is one of the largest energy infrastructure companies in North America. This is a great opportunity if you are an experienced Line Patroller, Pipeline Field Man, Natural Gas Operations Technician, Quality Tech, Corrosion Technician, Gas Mechanic or similar. Experience working with equipment manufactured by Caterpillar Natural Gas Engines, Cooper Bessemer Engines, Solar Turbines and GE Turbines is a plus.
Responsibilities
- Responsible for the operation and maintenance of pipelines, gas compressors and auxiliary equipment, engines, solar & GE gas turbines, motors cooling equipment, pump stations, pumps, dehydration equipment, process equipment, valves, seals and other related equipment.
- Start, stop and operate gas engines/pumps within defined operating parameters.
- Ensure the cost effective and efficient performance of all engines, pumps and associated equipment at compressor stations, pump stations, terminals, pipelines, and process plants.
- Diagnose and repair engines, turbines, pumps, seals, valves and instruments.
- Install, repair, service and maintain valves, pipe, pipeline appurtenances, corrosion control protection systems, measurement equipment and storage well equipment.
- Responsible for the general upkeep and maintenance of all facilities and equipment, including pipeline right-of-way, and gathering or storage areas, including but not limited to excavating, repairing, coating and backfilling pipelines, concrete work, painting, building erection, weed control, etc.
- Maintain, adjust, make repairs, and operate equipment; industrial wheeled tractors, water pumps, air compressors, expanders, coolers, test equipment, vehicles, etc.
- Represent the Company during contacts with landowner/tenants, public officials/emergency officials and at local meetings (One Call, Pipeline Groups, Soil Conservation, USFS, etc.).
- Oversee construction and/or maintenance activities performed by third parties.
- Train and oversee company and third-party personnel as required (e.g., personnel in progression, transport drivers, contractors, visitors).
- Perform governmental compliance activities (PHMSA, State Agencies, EPA, USFS, etc.).
- Perform minor electrical maintenance.
- Identify, report and correct safety and/or environmental concerns.
- Actively participate in safety programs and initiatives.
- Participate in the development of Operations and Maintenance (O&M) Procedures, site specific procedures, project scopes and work plans.
- Complete all applicable documentation and record keeping.
- Perform all work in compliance with Company standards, procedures, regulatory, and Company tariff requirements.
- Demonstrate performance toward operational excellence.
- Regular and predictable attendance.
- Other duties as assigned.
Requirements
Education: High School Diploma or GED required. Technical Certificate in Electronics, Mechanical, Industrial Maintenance, or other similar two-year certificates strongly recommended.
Experience & Specific Knowledge:
- Pipeline operations experience, including specific working experience with natural gas movement, mechanical maintenance, and/or environmental requirements affecting natural gas activities is highly desirable.
- Must respond to, and address, callouts and emergencies after regular business hours including after dark hours, which requires carrying a communication device.
- Knowledge of gas compressor station, field compressor maintenance, gas treatment, process plant, gather transmission, and pipeline system operations.
- Knowledge reading and interpreting blueprints, piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs) and other diagrams.
- Knowledge and experience in safe handling practices of flammable gases, liquid, and high/low pressure systems.
- Knowledge and experience with electrical switch gear, power distribution, electronic circuits, electronic test and measurement instruments, the National Electric Codes is a plus.
- Knowledge of troubleshooting and repairing mechanical failures.
- Engine maintenance (natural gas preferred) practices, planning and executing.
Certifications, Licenses, and Registrations:
- Possess a valid driver's license and meet company insurability requirements.
- May be required to possess a commercial driver's license, drive a company commercial vehicle and comply with all commercial vehicle and Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations.
- May be required to achieve and maintain certifications as required to perform job duties.
- Achieve and maintain all PHMSA Operator qualifications and progression requirements applicable to the job classification.
Physical Demands:
- Must be able to frequently enter confined spaces.
- Must be able to climb to and work from elevated platforms, ladders and walkways.
- Must be able to lift a minimum of 20 pounds in awkward positions, and 50 pounds from floor to waist.
- Must be able to work outdoors in adverse weather conditions, climb vertical access ladders and stair