Field Investigator; Public Utilities Gas Pipeline Safety Compliance Investigator

Field Investigator (Public Utilities Gas Pipeline Safety Compliance Investigator)

The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) regulates utility services and works to ensure safe and reliable services for Ohioans. This role is within the Service Monitoring & Enforcement Department (SMED) and the Facility and Operations Field Division (FOFD).

• Schedule, coordinate, and conduct independent field audits and inspections with gas utilities.
• Review company plans, procedures, construction, operations, and maintenance records.
• Observe and interview gas company employees and contractors.
• Inspect pipeline facilities and investigate natural gas related incidents and complaints.
• Apply federal and state pipeline safety regulations to determine compliance.
• Prepare and submit inspection reports and recommendations.
• Participate in rate case proceedings and recommend changes in company policies to improve service.
• Serve as agency lead for damage prevention complaint reporting and tracking.
• Complete required training courses at PHMSA’s training facility and maintain a state vehicle for travel within Ohio.
• Travel to Columbus for meetings at PUCO headquarters.

• 5 years experience in construction and operation of natural gas pipeline systems; 1 course or 3 months training in general management; 3 months training or 3 months experience in public relations; valid driver’s license.
• Or 5 years experience as a gas pipeline safety inspector and successful completion of seven basic gas pipeline safety courses from the Transportation Safety Institute; valid driver’s license.
• Or completion of an undergraduate core program in mechanical, electrical or civil engineering; valid driver’s license.
• Or completion of an undergraduate core program in mechanical, electrical or civil engineering technology; 3 years experience in construction and operation of natural gas pipeline systems; successful completion of seven basic Transportation Safety Institute courses; valid driver’s license.
• Or completion of an undergraduate core program in mechanical, electrical or civil engineering technology; 3 years experience as a gas pipeline safety inspector; completion of seven basic gas pipeline safety courses; valid driver’s license.
• Or equivalent minimum class qualifications for employment noted above.

• Hourly Rate: $34.53.
• Salary progression with step increases, cost‑of‑living adjustments, longevity supplements, and wellness incentives.
• Benefits:
  Medical coverage; dental, vision, and basic life insurance premiums; paid time off (vacation, personal, sick leave, and 11 paid holidays); childbirth, adoption and foster care leave; education and development opportunities.

Based in Northeast Ohio (Lake, Ashtabula, Geauga, Portage, Cuyahoga, Summit, Mahoning, Trumbull counties). Relocation to one of these counties is required.

Ohio is a Disability Inclusion State and strives to be a model employer of individuals with disabilities. The State of Ohio is committed to providing access, inclusion, and reasonable accommodation in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other applicable laws.

The State of Ohio is a drug‑free workplace that prohibits the use of marijuana, and this position may be subject to additional restrictions pursuant to the State of Ohio Drug‑Free Workplace Policy (HR‑39).