Gas Controller

NiSource Corporate Services Co; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

NiSource Corporation in Columbus, OH seeks a Gas Control Operator to monitor and control gas transmission and distribution systems, ensuring safe and reliable service. You will work 12-hour Panama shifts (2-2-3) with every other weekend off, handle emergency procedures, and coordinate resources while maintaining compliance with PHMSA and DOT requirements.

The role requires strong analytical and communication skills, ability to work under pressure, and in-depth knowledge of SCADA systems.

Qualifications

• Must pass COBRA aptitude evaluation.
• Must pass color vision test.
• Must pass DOT random drug & alcohol testing.
• Must reside within a 1-hour commute to Arena office (Columbus, OH).
• Proficient with Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook and Teams.
• Ability to obtain and maintain Operator Qualifications (OQ).

Responsibilities

• Monitor and control transmission and distribution gas system operations to ensure safe and reliable service.
• Perform effectively during normal, abnormal, and emergency operating conditions, including emergency response procedures.
• Maintain system gas balance coordinating supply, demand, storage, and transportation resources.
• Document activities and comply with PHMSA, CRM, DOT, and company policies, procedures, and qualification requirements.
• Troubleshoot system issues and alarms using SCADA data and communicate findings with Field Operations personnel.
• Escalate abnormal operating conditions to designated leadership per policies.
• Use 3-Way Communication to verify and communicate critical operational information.
• Work 12-hour shifts on a Panama Schedule (2-2-3); every other weekend off.
• Work extended hours during emergencies within DOT Hours of Service requirements.
• Maintain professional conduct; communications and records are auditable by PHMSA and regulators.

Skills

Calm under pressure

Planning

Analytical

Verbal and written communication

Team collaboration

COBRA aptitude

Color vision

DOT drug testing

Columbus commute

Microsoft Office

Operator Qualifications (OQ)

Tools

SCADA systems

Job description

Essential Functions

• Monitor and control transmission and distribution gas system operations, to ensure safe and reliable service.
• Ability to perform effectively during normal, abnormal, and emergency operating conditions, including implementation of emergency response procedures.
• Maintain system gas balance through effective coordination of supply, demand, storage, and transportation resources.
• Responsible for documenting activities and complying with all PHMSA, Control Room Management (CRM), DOT, and company policies, procedures, and qualification requirements.
• Troubleshoot system issues and alarms utilizing Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) data and communicate findings with Field Operations personnel.
• Escalate abnormal operating conditions to designated leadership personnel in accordance with policies and procedures.
• Utilize 3-Way Communication to verify and communicate critical operational information.
• Work 12-hour shift rotations, following a Panama Schedule (2-2-3). Shifts rotate through 2 weeks on Day shifts then 2 weeks on Night shifts. Note that this schedule provides every other weekend off-duty.
• Work extended hours and varying shifts when necessary (during emergencies) within compliance of DOT Hours of Service (HOS) requirements.
• Operate in a professional manner; all communications and records are auditable by PHMSA and other regulatory agencies.

Required Qualifications For Position

• Ability to remain calm and make effective decisions during abnormal and emergency operating conditions.
• Strong planning, organizational, analytical, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Ability to evaluate system conditions, assess operational risk, and make timely decisions that support safe, reliable, and compliant pipeline operations.
• Collaborate in a close team environment to support one another in achieving Gas Control's operational goals.
• Committed to contributing positively to the team.
• Must successfully pass Console Operator Basic Requirements Assessment (COBRA) aptitude evaluation.
• Must be able to pass color blind test to distinguish between colors.
• Must be able to pass DOT random drug & alcohol testing.
• Must reside within a 1-hour commute to Primary Gas Control Center (Arena office, Columbus Ohio) in all traffic conditions.
• Possess basic to intermediate computer skills, especially proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook, and Teams.
• Ability to obtain and maintain required Operator Qualifications (OQ)

Preferred Additional Qualifications for Position

• 2+ years of work experience in a gas utility or related industry.
• Experience working night shifts or a rotating shift schedule and/or working weekends and holidays
• Familiarity with Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems or similar real-time data systems.
• Familiarity with Pipeline & Hazardous Material Safety Administration (PHMSA) and Control Room Management (CRM) procedures and regulations.
• Have knowledge of, or ability to learn and troubleshoot, fluid dynamic and thermodynamic concepts including pressures, flows, and gas laws.
• Possess a working understanding of the State and Federal Regulatory requirements, gas transmission systems, and gas energy markets.

The preceding description is not designed to be a complete list of all duties and responsibilities required of the position.

As a public utility, NiSource provides essential services to customers 24/7. Emergency needs can arise at various times throughout the year, including during storm season. Employees may be required to support emergency response efforts, which could include working outside normal hours or assisting with tasks outside of typical responsibilities.

Work AuthorizationCandidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States and must not require employer sponsorship now or in the future.

Workplace ConnectionWe value a workplace where everyone feels respected, included, and able to do their best work. We encourage open dialogue, value different perspectives, and work collaboratively with employees, customers, and partners.

We recognize and respect the unique experiences people bring, including different backgrounds, cultures, and viewpoints. We treat others with professionalism and care, and we each play a part in creating a positive work environment.

Veteran Hiring & InclusionNiSource is proud to support veterans, transitioning service members, and military spouses. We value the leadership, teamwork, and mission-focused experience the military community brings, and we are committed to providing an inclusive workplace with opportunities for professional growth and development.

Equal Employment Opportunity

NiSource is committed to providing equal employment opportunities in each of its companies to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, veteran status, disability, gender, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, sex (including pregnancy, lacta