Pipeline Operator

Howard Energy Partners; Orla (TX); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Howard Energy Partners is seeking skilled Pipeline Operators to ensure safe, efficient operation of our pipeline systems, compressor stations, and field equipment in Texas. Levels I–III offer growth opportunities, with duties ranging from basic monitoring to independent, advanced control tasks.

Responsibilities include monitoring flows and parameters, operating compressors and valves with HMI systems, maintaining records, and ensuring OSHA/PHMSA compliance. Apply via HR.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Technical certification and successful completion of operator qualifications, written tests, and performance verifications.
• Proficient in operating HMI/DCS control systems (e.g., Delta V, Wonderware, Ignition).
• Strong understanding of gas and liquid hydraulics, control schemes, operational limits, and blending calculations.
• Commitment to safety policies, PSM regulations, and crisis management/incident response plans.
• Ability to follow and enforce SOPs.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; strong troubleshooting abilities.
• Basic computer skills, mechanical aptitude, and ability to work under pressure and varying work conditions.

Responsibilities

• Monitor pipeline flows, pressures, temperatures, and levels; recognize deviations and take corrective action.
• Operate compressors, pumps, valves, and related equipment using HMI control systems.
• Identify equipment abnormalities and promptly notify maintenance for repairs.
• Record process parameters, complete operating reports, and implement lockout/tag-out procedures.
• Develop a basic understanding of operational capabilities, including hydraulics and control schemes.
• Follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), adhere to safety protocols, and participate in scheduled on-call/relief duties.
• Perform routine inspections, minor maintenance, tank gauging, and pigging operations.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA, DOT, PHMSA, and company regulations.
• Independently operate pipeline systems using DCS/HMI systems to maintain optimal performance.
• Monitor and adjust operating parameters; perform blending and system pressure calculations.
• Identify, document, and report deviations or potential safety/environmental concerns; work closely with maintenance.
• Maintain clear and comprehensive documentation of process events and operational reports.
• Demonstrate increasing understanding of system operations; assist with training entry-level operators.
• Adhere to PSM regulations and follow crisis management/incident response protocols.
• Supervise contractors performing minor tasks; oversee foreign pipeline crossings and advanced pigging operations.
• Operate pipeline systems independently with minimal supervision, managing all aspects of field operations.
• Utilize advanced control systems to perform complex operational tasks, including detailed blending and pressure calculations.
• Quickly recognize operating deviations, execute corrective measures, and communicate with maintenance regarding significant repairs.
• Maintain expert-level understanding of hydraulics, control schemes, operational limits, and quality specifications.
• Serve as a technical expert and mentor, guiding lower-level operators and refining SOPs.
• Ensure strict compliance with PSM regulations, safety protocols, and environmental standards; lead audits and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Develop, refine, and implement operational scopes, schedules, and procedures; participate in strategic planning.

Skills

Communication skills

Troubleshooting

SOP adherence

Safety awareness

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Driver's license

Operator qualifications certification

Tools

DeltaV

Wonderware

Ignition

Job description

We are seeking skilled and motivated Pipeline Operators to join our growing team in the midstream oil and gas industry. We offer exciting opportunities for individuals at all career stages—from those just starting out to seasoned experts. In this role, you will be responsible for the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of our pipeline systems, including compressor stations, delivery points, and related field equipment.
Our collaborative and supportive environment allows you to apply your expertise and grow within our team.

Responsibilities (Vary By Level)

Entry-Level (I)

• Monitor pipeline flows, pressures, temperatures, and levels; recognize deviations and take corrective action.
• Operate compressors, pumps, valves, and related equipment using HMI control systems.
• Identify equipment abnormalities and promptly notify maintenance for repairs.
• Record process parameters, complete operating reports, and implement lockout/tag-out procedures.
• Develop a basic understanding of operational capabilities, including hydraulics and control schemes.
• Follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), adhere to safety protocols, and participate in scheduled on-call/relief duties.
• Perform routine inspections, minor maintenance, tank gauging, and pigging operations.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA, DOT, PHMSA, and company regulations.

Intermediate (II)

• Independently operate pipeline systems using DCS/HMI systems to maintain optimal performance.
• Monitor and adjust operating parameters; perform blending and system pressure calculations.
• Identify, document, and report deviations or potential safety/environmental concerns; work closely with maintenance.
• Maintain clear and comprehensive documentation of process events and operational reports.
• Demonstrate increasing understanding of system operations; assist with training entry-level operators.
• Adhere to PSM regulations and follow crisis management/incident response protocols.
• Supervise contractors performing minor tasks; oversee foreign pipeline crossings and advanced pigging operations.

Senior (III)

• Operate pipeline systems independently with minimal supervision, managing all aspects of field operations.
• Utilize advanced control systems to perform complex operational tasks, including detailed blending and pressure calculations.
• Quickly recognize operating deviations, execute corrective measures, and communicate with maintenance regarding significant repairs.
• Maintain expert-level understanding of hydraulics, control schemes, operational limits, and quality specifications.
• Serve as a technical expert and mentor, guiding lower-level operators and refining SOPs.
• Ensure strict compliance with PSM regulations, safety protocols, and environmental standards; lead audits and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Develop, refine, and implement operational scopes, schedules, and procedures; participate in strategic planning.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Technical certification and successful completion of operator qualifications, written tests, and performance verifications.
• Proficient in operating HMI/DCS control systems (e.g., Delta V, Wonderware, Ignition).
• Strong understanding of gas and liquid hydraulics, control schemes, operational limits, and blending calculations.
• Commitment to safety policies, PSM regulations, and crisis management/incident response plans.
• Ability to follow and enforce SOPs.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; strong troubleshooting abilities.
• Basic computer skills, mechanical aptitude, and ability to work under pressure and varying work conditions.

Experience

• Entry-Level (I): 1 year of operating experience in a pipeline or processing plant environment, preferably in oil and gas.
• Intermediate (II): 3+ years of operating experience in a pipeline or processing plant environment, preferably in oil and gas.
• Senior (III): 5+ years of comprehensive operating experience, including advanced process management and team leadership in a pipeline or natural gas processing facility.

During the interview process, we will assess your experience, qualifications, and career goals to determine the appropriate level (I, II, or III) for your skillset. This ensures you are placed in a role that aligns with your capabilities and provides opportunities for growth within our organization.

Physical Demands and Hazard for Field Employees:

This position may require occasional travel to remote sites, potential exposure to flammable material, adherence to safety protocols, compliance with operating regulations, and will require rigorous physical demands.

Howard Energy Partners is an equal opportunity employer. If you need additional information, have questions, or need accommodations, please reach out to the Human Resources department at [e-mail].