OQ & Training Compliance Lead

Southeast Connections LLC; Chesapeake (VA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary packages

401k with employer matching

Paid time off and EAP

Job summary

Southeast Connections, LLC in Chesapeake, VA is seeking a Training Specialist & OQ Specialist to lead the company’s Training, Progression Plan, Operator Qualification program, and Safety Audit functions, ensuring full compliance with federal regulations and client requirements specific to the natural gas pipeline industry.

This role will develop curricula, coordinate OQ training, manage schedules, maintain documentation, and collaborate with field operations, safety, and HR to qualify personnel

Qualifications

• Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Detail‑oriented with strong analytical and documentation capabilities.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and database management systems.
• Certified OQ Evaluator or Trainer.
• Prior experience working for or with gas utilities, pipeline operators, or midstream service providers.
• Familiarity with pipeline construction, maintenance, and emergency response procedures.
• Knowledge of OSHA safety practices and other industry compliance programs.
• Must be able to work in fast‑paced, safety‑critical environments and respond quickly to compliance issues or audit findings.
• Proficient in EWN, ITS, Veriforce, and MEA.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) proficiency is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Develop and oversee the implementation of the company’s Training, Progression Program, OQ program to ensure full compliance with regulations (49 CFR Part 192 & 195) and client standards.
• Create and update Training Curriculum, OQ policies, procedures, and manuals.
• Schedule, coordinate and track OQ training, assessments, and re‑qualifications for all field personnel and contractors.
• Maintain up‑to‑date records and documentation of qualifications using approved OQ platforms (e.g., ITS, Veriforce, MEA, or EWN).
• Serve as the primary point of contact for Training Schedule, Progression Schedule, OQ audits, Safety Audits, and client compliance requests, and regulatory inspections.
• Work with field operations, safety, training, and HR teams to identify training needs and ensure timely qualification of employees.
• Oversee the training and evaluation process for personnel performing covered tasks.
• Conduct hands‑on performance evaluations and proctor computer‑based testing.
• Coordinate with trainers, evaluators, and third‑party qualification providers.
• Ensure training content and delivery methods align with regulatory and internal standards.
• Monitor regulatory updates and industry changes to keep the OQ program current.
• Conduct internal audits and field evaluations to ensure adherence to qualification standards.
• Investigate incidents or failures related to unqualified personnel.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of the OQ program and implement improvements.
• Monitor industry best practices and emerging technologies in qualification and training.

Skills

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Microsoft Office

Database management

OQ experience

Gas utilities experience

OSHA knowledge

OQ systems

Bilingual English/Spanish

Audit response

Regulatory compliance

Education

Minimum 5 years experience in Natural Gas Distribution Training/OQ compliance/pipeline operations

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Database management systems

EWN

ITS

Veriforce

MEA

Job description

Southeast Connections, LLC in Chesapeake, VA is seeking a Training Specialist & OQ Specialist to lead the company’s Training, Progression Plan, Operator Qualification program, and Safety Audit functions, ensuring full compliance with federal regulations and client requirements specific to the natural gas pipeline industry.

This role will develop curricula, coordinate OQ training, manage schedules, maintain documentation, and collaborate with field operations, safety, and HR to qualify personnel