Pipeline Operator

Job Title: Pipeline Operator

Location: Carlsbad, NM

Schedule: 5/2 (Monday – Friday) Includes scheduled on-call rotation (nights, weekends, holidays)

Pay Rate: $50/hr

Pipeline Operator

Responsible for the safe, compliant, and efficient operation of liquid and gas pipeline systems and associated facilities. This position requires a fully qualified operator with strong knowledge of DOT PHMSA regulations (49 CFR 192 & 195), strict adherence to Operator Qualification (OQ) requirements, and precise documentation practices.

The ideal candidate understands flow dynamics, commissioning and decommissioning processes, pigging operations, and is capable of reading pipeline maps and tracing buried lines in the field.

• Operate, monitor, and maintain liquid and gas pipelines and associated facilities
• Perform startup, shutdown, commissioning, decommissioning, isolation, purging, and line fill/pack/unpack activities
• Execute pigging operations (utility, batching, cleaning, ILI) including pressure control and documentation
• Monitor flows, pressures, volumes, and quality via SCADA and field instrumentation
• Identify abnormal operating conditions and optimize system performance

• Comply with DOT PHMSA regulations (49 CFR 192 & 195)
• Maintain active Operator Qualification (OQ) – required
• Complete accurate DOT-required records (inspections, patrols, maintenance, incidents)
• Support audits and inspections with complete documentation

• Follow company safety standards and Life-Saving Rules
• Conduct ROW patrols, leak surveys, and facility inspections
• Utilize Stop Work Authority when necessary
• Understand and mitigate high-pressure gas and liquid hydrocarbon hazards
• Apply proper LOTO, double block and bleed, and pressure verification procedures

• Read and interpret alignment sheets, P&IDs, stationing, contours, and one-line diagrams
• Trace and follow buried pipelines in the field
• Perform and witness 811/One-Call line locates
• Report discrepancies and support GIS updates

• Utilize SCADA systems and instrumentation for monitoring and troubleshooting
• Use GPS and line locating equipment
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams)
• Prepare clear reports and operational documentation

• Active OQ certification required
• 5–10+ years of pipeline operations experience preferred
• Strong knowledge of commissioning/decommissioning pipelines
• Ability to lead less experienced crews
• Understanding of all levels of pipeline systems
• Experience working with high-pressure gas and liquid hydrocarbon systems
• Strong safety awareness and hazard recognition
• Must be local within 60 miles of Carlsbad (Hobbs or Artesia acceptable)

• Local candidates preferred (within 60 miles of Carlsbad, NM)
• On-call rotation required
• Heavy pipeline operations experience required
• Ability to navigate field locations and trace buried lines required
• Candidate must understand high-pressure pipeline hazards
• Agency-provided truck required (cross box/rat pack setup preferred)