Plant Operator I

Ultipro; Laredo (TX); On-site; USD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Howard Energy Partners is seeking a Plant Operator I to oversee the operation of a natural gas processing facility, including cryogenic and amine treating systems. The role involves monitoring processes, ensuring safe operations, and using HMI control systems to maintain optimal performance.

The position requires 1+ years in oil/gas operations, shift work capability, and a strong commitment to safety. Previous experience with cryogenic processing and experience with DeltaV/Wonderware/Ignition is

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 1+ years operating experience in oil/gas industry.
• Experience in cryogenic or processing plant environments.
• Experience operating processes with HMI control (Delta V, Wonderware, Ignition).
• Ability to work shifts including holidays and weekends.
• Strong safety mindset and adherence to SOPs.

Responsibilities

• Ensure proper flows, temperatures, pressures, and levels; recognize deviations and take corrective action.
• Operate plant processes using HMI control systems (Delta V/Wonderware/Ignition).
• Communicate equipment abnormalities to maintenance for significant repairs.
• Record parameter values, complete operating reports, and notify environmental deviations.
• Comply with PSM regulations and SOPs; perform lockout/tagout when needed.
• Demonstrate system awareness across all plant systems and facilities.

Skills

Safety protocols

Written & verbal communication

Team collaboration

Problem solving

Shift work readiness

Attention to detail

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

HMI control systems

Job description

Description

The Plant Operator I carries out tasks to ensure the efficient operation of all aspects of a natural gas processing plant. This includes overseeing the cryogenic plant, amine treating plant, glycol and mole‑sieve dehydration systems, tank farm, utilities, engines/compressors, PD pumps, and centrifugal pumps.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Ensures proper flows, temperatures, pressures, and levels, recognizing operating deviations and taking appropriate corrective action.
• Operates plant processes using an HMI control system, preferably Delta V, Wonderware, or Ignition.
• Recognizes equipment abnormalities and communicates with maintenance regarding significant repairs.
• Records parameter values, completes operating reports, notifies environmental deviations, and implements equipment lockout/tag-out for maintenance and repair.
• Complies with PSM regulations.
• Completes basic training and demonstrates system awareness (e.g., SCADA, SOPs, AOC).
• Demonstrates basic understanding of operational capabilities across all systems and facilities.
• Applies basic knowledge of gas and liquid hydraulics/pressures, control schemes, and operational limits.
• Follows Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Performs basic component blending calculations.
• Maintains clear documentation of events and communicates effectively with fellow employees.
• Adheres to all safety and company policies.
• Demonstrates basic understanding of crisis management and incident response plans.
• Available for scheduled on‑call/relief duties and identifies, reports, and corrects safety and environmental concerns.
• Actively participates in company safety programs and initiatives.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Possess a moderate understanding of general aspects of the job.
• Awareness of upstream and downstream quality specifications.
• Efficiently Collaborate effectively with colleagues to achieve shared goals.
• Willingness and drive to learn tasks at hand.
• Collaborate effectively with colleagues to achieve shared goals.
• Good, clear, concise, and thorough written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong commitment to safety protocols and procedures.
• Effective troubleshooting and problem resolution skills.
• High level of accuracy and precision in tasks.
• Ability to perform shift work: routinely work holidays and weekends that occur during the shift.

Education and Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• 1+ years of operating experience in the oil/gas industry
• Experience working in a cryogenics or processing plant
• Experience working in a cryogenics or processing plant
• Experience with operating processes with HMI control, preferably Delta V, Wonderware, or Ignition
• Experience working with pressure vessels and equipment

Certifications:

• None required

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.

Thank you for your interest in Howard Energy Partners, an equal opportunity employer. If you need additional information, have questions, or need accommodations, please reach out to the Human Resources department at 210-298-2222.

Critical Thinking

Advanced

Advanced

Safety

Advanced

Advanced

Team Player

: Works well as a member of a group

Detail Oriented

: Capable of carrying out a given task with all details necessary to get the task done well

Dedicated

: Devoted to a task or purpose with loyalty or integrity

Education

High School or better.

Experience

1+ years of operating experience in the oil/gas industry

Experience working with pressure vessels and equipment

Experience with operating processes with HMI control, preferably Delta V, Wonderware, or Ignition

Experience working in a cryogenics or processing plant

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.