Desk Operator

Fisia Italimpianti Societa per Azioni Branch Co.; Eastern Province; On-site; SAR 48,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading water treatment company is seeking a Desk Operator for the Zuluf Water Treatment Plant in Saudi Arabia's Eastern Province. This role involves monitoring operations, controlling SCADA and DCS systems, and ensuring compliance with Aramco standards. Candidates should have 3-5 years of experience in oil & gas control room operations and familiarity with water treatment processes. The position requires proficiency in automated plant systems and strong communication skills.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3–5 years of experience in control room operations in the oil & gas industry.
• Experience operating SCADA, DCS, and PLC systems in a high-reliability environment.
• Familiarity with Saudi Aramco standards is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Monitor operations of the produced water treatment systems.
• Operate Distributed Control Systems (DCS), SCADA, and PLCs.
• Identify and diagnose system faults through data.

Skills

Water treatment systems understanding

SCADA/DCS interfaces proficiency

Pressure response ability

Clear communication skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Technical training in process operations

Tools

SCADA systems

DCS systems

PLC systems

Job description

Overview

The Desk Operator at the Zuluf Water Treatment Plant is responsible for monitoring and controlling all field operations via centralized control systems (SCADA/DCS). This position ensures safe and efficient treatment of produced/process water associated with oil and gas operations, managing hydrocarbon separation, filtration, chemical dosing, and treated water quality within Aramco compliance standards. The Desk Operator coordinates closely with field operators, maintenance teams, and shift leadership to ensure plant stability and performance.

Responsibilities

• Monitor Operations:
  • Continuously monitor operations of the produced water treatment systems including CPI/TPI separators, DAF units, degassers, filtration systems, chemical dosing units, and treated water discharge.
  • Track key process and performance indicators such as flow rates, pressure, oil-in-water content, turbidity, and equipment health.
• Control Systems Operation:
  • Operate and monitor Distributed Control Systems (DCS), SCADA, and Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) to control plant systems and respond to alarms.
  • Ensure process parameters are maintained within defined safe and efficient operating ranges.
  • Take immediate corrective actions in response to abnormal conditions, ensuring plant safety and continuity.
• Troubleshooting and Maintenance Support:
  • Identify and diagnose system faults or irregularities through control systems and field data.
  • Coordinate with field operators and maintenance teams to isolate faults, initiate corrective actions, and support root cause analysis.
  • Assist in planning routine maintenance based on performance trends and alarm histories.
• Communication and Coordination:
  • Maintain continuous communication with field operators, shift supervisors, engineers, and maintenance personnel to ensure seamless operations.
  • Provide clear instructions during normal and abnormal operations, including during emergencies or shutdown scenarios.
  • Liaise with Aramco representatives, contractors, and suppliers when required.
• Data Logging and Reporting:
  • Accurately log operational data, alarms, incidents, maintenance activities, and shift performance into control room logs or digital systems.
  • Prepare daily shift reports and handover notes to ensure operational continuity between shifts.
  • Contribute to monthly performance and compliance reports as needed.
• Safety and Compliance:
  • Ensure that plant operations are conducted in full compliance with Aramco HSE standards and environmental regulations.
  • Participate in emergency drills, control room simulations, and incident investigations.
  • Maintain situational awareness to quickly react to emergencies, including hydrocarbon releases, fire alarms, or equipment failures.
• Shift Work:
  • Work on a rotating shift basis (24/7 operation), including weekends and public holidays.
  • Ensure proper shift handover with accurate and thorough documentation.

Qualifications and Experience

• Education:
  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Technical or vocational training in process operations, industrial instrumentation, electrical or mechanical systems preferred.
  • Additional certifications in SCADA/DCS systems or oil & gas plant operations are advantageous.
• Experience:
  • Minimum 3–5 years of experience in control room operations in the oil & gas industry, preferably in water treatment, produced water handling, or hydrocarbon separation systems.
  • Proven experience operating SCADA, DCS, and PLC systems in a high-reliability industrial environment.
  • Familiarity with Saudi Aramco standards is a strong plus.
• Skills:
  • Strong understanding of water treatment systems in upstream oil & gas settings (e.g., CPI/TPI, degassers, filtration, chemical dosing).
  • Proficiency in monitoring and controlling automated plant systems using SCADA/DCS interfaces.
  • Ability to prioritize and respond effectively under pressure, especially during system upsets or alarms.
  • Clear verbal and written communication skills for control room coordination and reporting.
• Personal Attributes:
  • Detail-oriented and highly alert in monitoring systems and interpreting alarms.
  • Proactive and resourceful with a strong sense of accountability.
  • Team-oriented with the ability to collaborate across departments.
  • Safety-focused with a commitment to operational excellence.