Gas Distribution Operator I, II, or III - Charlotte, NC

Duke Energy; Charlotte (NC); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Duke Energy is hiring an entry-level Gas Distribution Operator in Charlotte, NC. You will perform tasks across regulated and non-regulated distribution duties, interact with customers, and support safety and compliance initiatives.

A CDL is required within 12–18 months, with on-call and outdoor duties throughout varying weather conditions. The role involves learning to operate heavy equipment, perform leakage surveys, and develop proficiency in field documentation while advancing toward senior

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED is not required here; basic qualifications focus on mechanical aptitude and tool use.
• Experience applying basic mechanical concepts and mechanical aptitude.
• Experience using construction tools and operating construction equipment.
• Experience utilizing personal computers (Windows).
• Must obtain CDL within 12–18 months or have learners permit within 12 months.

Responsibilities

• Perform work assignments on customers' premises and interact with customers professionally.
• Identify, obtain and deliver tools, materials and equipment for work.
• Drive company vehicle and operate heavy equipment with valid CDL when obtained.
• Perform O&M duties related to natural gas distribution, including installation and maintenance of facilities.
• Protect safety by planning work zones, using PPE and following compliance requirements.
• Maintain records and documentation of field work and inspections.
• Participate in on-call rotations and emergency response.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Construction tools

Windows PC experience

Education

Technical school or equivalent

Gas piping license

Tools

Construction equipment

Job description

More than a career - a chance to make a difference in people's lives.

Build an exciting, rewarding career with us - help us make a difference for millions of people every day. Consider joining the Duke Energy team, where you'll find a friendly work environment, opportunities for growth and development, recognition for your work, and competitive pay and benefits.

NOTES:

Selected candidate must live no more than 30 minutes fromthe assigned Ops Center

Depending upon the qualifications of the successful applicant, the hiring manager may elect to fill this position at a level I, II, or III

Principal Responsibilities:

The Gas Distribution Operator is the entry level position for the Gas Distribution Crew Progression (O&M). The Gas Distribution Operator has accountability for timely completion of established skills development assignments in each wage step per guidelines. Each skills development assignment is designed to further prepare the Gas Distribution Operator to work safely and independently on O&M department responsibilities. Skills development assignments include, but are not limited to, successful completion of compulsory training, testing and certifications; attainment of required Operator Qualifications; and demonstration of proficiency in performance of job duties associated with regulated and non-regulated distribution work. The Gas Distribution Operator has the option to prepare for advancement to Sr Gas Distribution Operator by obtaining additional training and Operator Qualifications in Step 6 per established guidelines. Job posting selection is required for employees to enter the Gas Distribution Operator position.

The following list is not intended to be all inclusive of duties and responsibilities as needed to learn, assist and independently perform regulated and non-regulated Operations and Maintenance distribution work.

• Perform work assignments on customer's premises; Interact with customers in a professional, respectful and courteous manner to promote good customer relations; answer customer-related inquiries regarding established Company policies and procedures and provide explanation of work performed
• Identify, obtain and deliver tools, materials and equipment needed for work assignments
• Utilize tools such as maps and GPS to locate work assignments; Drive a company vehicle, including transport of heavy equipment; possess and maintain a valid driver's license and obtain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) within 18 months of entering the Gas Distribution Operator position. Maintain the CDL on a consistent basis thereafter.
• Perform O&M crew duties relating to maintenance and operation of natural gas underground pipeline, including but not limited to:
  • Install, maintain, repair, relocate and retire new or existing natural gas facilities and appurtenances
  • Assist with, plan and set up work zone safety and traffic control measures
  • Perform general site preparation, restoration and right of way maintenance duties
  • Develop proficiency in safe operation of heavy equipment such as mini-excavators, back hoes, skid steers, trenchers, etc., including, but not limited to excavation around utilities (natural gas, electric, etc.)
  • Perform preventative maintenance and inspections on equipment
  • Run power tools
  • Perform hand digging
  • Inspect above ground appurtenances for atmospheric corrosion
  • Paint above ground appurtenances
  • Perform pipe to soil corrosion readings
  • Corrosion control and pipe remediation, including wrapping and coating pipe
  • Thread and cut pipe
  • Perform plastic pipe fusion
  • Perform the role of "Competent Person" on the crew
  • Perform facility locate duties
  • Check odorant levels
  • Conduct leak surveys
  • Grade leaks
  • Install leak clamps
  • Perform third party damage investigation
• Develop knowledge of proficiency in record keeping systems relating to field operations, maintenance and compliance; complete work documentation/records with accuracy and on a timely basis
• Utilize and become proficient in technology devices such as computer, smart phone, etc. for work assignments and to accurately record required information
• Provide guidance and demonstrate proper procedural technique on work related tasks to lower-level employees
• On-call rotation and emergency response
• Other duties as assigned

Basic Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED
• Experience applying basic mechanical concepts and mechanical aptitude
• Experience using construction tools
• Experience operating construction equipment
• Experience utilizing personal computers (PCs) in a Windows environment
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license and have ability to obtain CDL license within 12 - 18 months of entering the position
• Must obtain a learners permit within the first 12 months in the position if you do not already have a CDL

Desired Qualifications:

• Safety awareness and leadership
• Demonstrated effective communication (Verbal and Written) and interpersonal skills and safety awareness
• Advanced experience using construction tools and construction equipment
• Documented training on heavy equipment
• Significant experience operating heavy equipment and/or excavation equipment in a utilities environment
• Industry specific knowledge and experience
• Experience in diagnostics and troubleshooting of mechanical and/or electrical equipment
• 2 Years technical school education or the equivalent job-related knowledge and appropriate gas piping related license
• Possess and maintain a valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
• Previous experience with plumbing, electrical, heating and air installation/maintenance
• Previous crew leader experience with responsibility for crew oversite, work assignments and documentation of work performed

Specific Requirements:

• This position contains a weight restriction of 275 pounds as an essential function of the job. The purpose of this restriction is to ensure that all weight-rated equipment is used in an appropriate and safe manner within maximum allowed weight loading.
• Must work outdoors in adverse weather conditions; lifting up to 75 lbs.; frequent walking, reaching, pushing, pulling, bending, squatting, stooping, crawling, standing, digging, climbing; works on uneven terrain, many times with heavy vegetation; manual dexterity (hand/eye coordination); keen eyesight; good hearing; good sense of smell; comes in frequent contact with insects and animals; ability to use breathing apparatus when responding to gas leaks.

Working Conditions:

• Field Mobility Classification - Work location is highly mobile, working at various facilities or field locations with occasional onsite meetings after the onboarding period. Employee must live within a reasonable commute to the posted reporting location, not greater than 50 miles one way.
• Must be able to work on-call rotations, weekend and evening work as required. Subject to extended working hours and must be available for call-out and emergency response. Some rotating shift

Travel Requirements

15-25%Relocation Assistance Provided (as applicable)NoRepresented/Union PositionIBE Local 1902Visa Sponsored PositionNo. This is not a Visa Sponsored Position. This role requires the ability to work lawfully in the U.S. without employment-based immigration sponsorship, now or in the future.