Energy Optimization Engineer - Pipelines & Utilities

Plains; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 90,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Plains in Houston, TX seeks an Energy Management Engineer to monitor pipeline and process facility operations, optimize energy use, and lead energy projects as a subject-matter expert. The role involves coordinating with Control Center, Operations, and Accounting to manage budgets and improve efficiency.

The ideal candidate holds a Bachelor’s in Engineering with 3+ years in pipeline/industrial operations, strong hydraulics modeling skills, and excellent communication.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering required (Chemical preferred).
• 3+ years of experience in pipeline and/or process facility operations.
• Experience with fluid hydraulics and hydraulic modeling in industrial applications; ability to use hydraulic process modeling software.
• Ability to multi-task and perform highly detailed work independently under deadlines.
• Ability to manage and prioritize multiple projects with short turnaround times.
• Aptitude for analyzing and solving complex problems.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite and industry applications.
• Cleared criminal history and satisfactory reference checks.
• Compliance with Drug & Alcohol Policy including pre-employment testing.
• Valid state driver’s license and driving record satisfactory to the company and insurers.

Responsibilities

• Monitor pipeline schedules, flow rates, crude qualities, and temperatures to provide operating guidance to Control Center.
• Prepare hydraulic models to optimize systems considering utility rate structures and DRA.
• Review utility contracts and rate structures for appropriateness based on usage and forecasted volumes.
• Prepare cost curves for commercial evaluation.
• Manage DRA and demand response programs within the assigned area.
• Participate in design of new capital projects from an energy efficiency perspective.
• Drive design consistency to reduce OPEX.
• Acquire power on large projects focusing on reducing utility operating expenses.
• Provide equipment recommendations for existing or new services.
• Liaise with electric utilities for usage forecast and rate structures.
• Manage Plains energy resources and communicate with electrical SMEs.
• Collaborate with Operations and Accounting to establish utility budgets and revenue accruals.
• Coordinate with Control Center and Scheduling daily on pipeline operating guidelines.

Skills

Communication skills

Analytical thinking

Project management

Multi-tasking

Problem solving

Attention to detail

Oral communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Tools

Hydraulic modeling software

Microsoft Office Suite

Access

Excel

Outlook

Job description

Plains in Houston, TX seeks an Energy Management Engineer to monitor pipeline and process facility operations, optimize energy use, and lead energy projects as a subject-matter expert. The role involves coordinating with Control Center, Operations, and Accounting to manage budgets and improve efficiency.

The ideal candidate holds a Bachelor’s in Engineering with 3+ years in pipeline/industrial operations, strong hydraulics modeling skills, and excellent communication.