Plant Operator

Howard Energy Partners; Kansas; On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Howard Energy Partners seeks a Plant Operator to join our midstream oil and gas team in Kansas, ensuring safe and efficient operation of the Cryogenic Plant, Amine Treating Plant, glycol and dehydration systems, tank farm, utilities, engines, pumps, and related equipment.

Roles vary by level (Entry I, Intermediate II, Senior III) with responsibilities from monitoring parameters and operating on HMI/DCS to independent management of the facility.

Qualifications

• Proficient in operating HMI/DCS control systems (Delta V, Wonderware, Ignition).
• Strong understanding of gas and liquid hydraulics, control schemes, and blending calculations.
• Ability to follow and enforce SOPs and safety policies, including crisis management/incident response.
• Experience with documenting process events and operating reports; PSA/PSM experience a plus.
• Willingness to work varying shifts and participate in on-call duties.

Responsibilities

• Monitor flows, temperatures, pressures, and levels across plant systems and take corrective action.
• Operate plant processes using HMI/DCS control systems.
• Record process parameters and prepare operating reports; notify of deviations.
• Develop basic understanding of operational capabilities and participate in SOP training.

Skills

HMI/DCS operations

Troubleshooting

Safety compliance

Mentoring

Communication

Problem solving

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Delta V

Wonderware

Ignition

Job description

We are seeking a skilled andmotivated Plant Operator to join ourgrowing team in the midstream oil and gas industry.We have exciting opportunities available for individuals at various stages in their careers, from those just starting out to seasoned experts.In this singular role, you will be responsible for ensuring the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of our facility, which includes the cryogenic plant, amine treating plant, glycol and mole-sieve dehydration systems, tank farm, utilities, engines/compressors, PD pumps, and centrifugal pumps.

We offer a collaborative and supportive environment where you can apply your expertise and grow within our team.

Responsibilities (Vary by Level):

Entry-Level (I):

• Monitor proper flows, temperatures, pressures, and levels across all plant systems, recognizing deviations and taking corrective action.
• Operate plant processes using an HMI control system (preferably Delta V, Wonderware, or Ignition).
• Recognize equipment abnormalities and promptly notify maintenance regarding significant repairs.
• Record process parameters, complete operating reports, notify of environmental deviations, and implement equipment lockout/tag-out procedures for maintenance and repair.
• Develop a basic understanding of operational capabilities, including gas/liquid hydraulics, control schemes, and component blending calculations.
• Follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), adhere to safety protocols, and participate in scheduled on-call/relief duties.

Intermediate (II):

• Independently operate plant processes using DCS/HMI systems (such as Wonderware) to maintain optimal performance.
• Monitor and adjust operating parameters while performing both basic and complex blending and system pressure calculations.
• Identify, document, and report deviations or potential safety and environmental concerns, working closely with maintenance to address issues.
• Maintain clear and comprehensive documentation of process events and operational reports.
• Demonstrate an increasing understanding of system operations and assist with the training of entry-level operators.
• Adhere to PSM regulations and follow established crisis management and incident response protocols.

Senior (III):

• Operate plant processes independently with minimal supervision, managing all aspects of the natural gas processing facility.
• Utilize advanced control systems (e.g., Delta V, Wonderware, or equivalent) 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 an expert-level understanding of gas/liquid hydraulics, control schemes, operational limits, and upstream/downstream quality specifications.
• Serve as a technical expert and mentor, providing guidance to lower-level operators and assisting in the development and refinement of SOPs.
• Ensure strict compliance with PSM regulations, safety protocols, and environmental standards while actively contributing to continuous improvement initiatives.

Qualifications:

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

Experience:

• Entry-Level (I): 1 year of operating experience in a cryogenic or processing plant environment,preferably in the oil and gas industry.
• Intermediate (II): 3+ years of operating experience in a cryogenic or processing plant environment, preferably in the oil and gas industry.
• Senior (III):5+ years of comprehensive operating experience, including advanced process management in a 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 that you are placed in a role that aligns with your capabilities and provides opportunities for growth within our organization.

Qualifications

Skills

Preferred

Interpersonal Skills

Advanced

Critical Thinking

Advanced

Advanced

Safety

Advanced

Behaviors

:

Motivations

:

Education

Required

High School or better.

Experience

Required

Senior (III):5+ years of comprehensive operating experience, including advanced process management in a natural gas processing facility.

Intermediate (II): 3+years of operating experience in a cryogenic or processing plant environment,preferably in the oil and gas industry.

Entry-Level (I): 1 year of operating experience in a cryogenic or processing plant environment,preferably in the oil and gas industry.

Licenses & Certifications

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.