Process Optimization Advisor

Process Optimization Advisor at Western Midstream

WES is seeking a senior technical Subject Matter Expert (SME) to join the Process Optimization Team as a Process Optimization Advisor. This role will serve as the company’s principal technical authority for optimizing the operation of midstream processing equipment and systems across gas processing plants, oil treating facilities, compressor stations, pump stations, and water disposal facilities.

The Advisor will drive equipment reliability and operational excellence by mentoring field operations personnel, implementing data-driven optimization strategies, and serving as the technical bridge between corporate engineering teams and field-based operations. This position focuses on maximizing asset uptime, extending equipment life, reducing operational costs, and building technical capability throughout the organization.

Equipment areas of focus include reciprocating and screw compressors, turbo expanders, propane refrigeration systems, amine and TEG contractors and regeneration systems, molecular sieve dehydration systems, heaters, heat exchangers, pumps, JT skids, and control valves.

This role is based in the Woodlands, TX and will report to the Director of Process Optimization & Engineering.

• 20+ years of relevant experience in upstream, midstream or downstream O&G industry, specifically day‑to‑day operations.
• Familiarity with industry codes and standards for pipeline, measurement, and gathering facilities as well as applicable local, state, and federal regulations; working knowledge of environmental and safety regulations.
• Deep SME background and experience in midstream operations, both gathering and processing.
• Ability to work effectively with engineers, other technical team members, field operations personnel, and vendors.
• Self‑motivated and able to work both collaboratively and independently.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong analytical, time‑management skills and ability to work in a fast‑paced, changing environment.
• Strong initiative to work efficiently with accurate results.

• Equipment Optimization & Performance:
  Lead efforts to optimize performance of mechanical equipment (including reciprocating and screw compressors, turbo expanders, propane refrigeration compression, amine and TEG contractors and regeneration systems, mole sieve dehydration systems, heaters, heat exchangers, pumps, JT skids, and control valves).
• Evaluate and improve system operations for gas gathering and compression, oil treating, saltwater disposal, water treating, cryogenic, and amine gas plants.
• Develop and implement data‑driven strategies to reduce downtime, improve throughput, and maximize equipment efficiency.
• Monitor and analyze process performance data to identify trends, inefficiencies, and improvement opportunities.
• Support implementation of optimization technologies such as advanced monitoring, control‑system tuning, and process automation upgrades.
• Field Operations Support & Technical Presence:
  Collaborate with Process Optimization Engineering, Commissioning and Construction, Field/Plant Operations, Field Services and maintenance teams, Operations Automation & Electrical engineering, Asset Integrity, and Remote Operations Center (ROC).
• Serve as the primary liaison between corporate engineering teams and field operations to resolve both acute and systemic operational issues.
• Provide technical expertise and on‑site support during troubleshooting, repairs, and equipment startups; respond to acute equipment issues, performing diagnostics and implementing corrective actions.
• Participate in and support emergency response activities, providing subject‑matter expertise for critical equipment failures and process upsets.
• Knowledge Transfer, Training & Documentation:
  Partner with the operational training department to develop training materials for field personnel; develop, document, and maintain troubleshooting guides and operational best practices.
• Create and deliver technical training programs covering equipment operation, performance optimization, and troubleshooting methodologies.
• Build and maintain a best‑practice…