What are the responsibilities and job description for the Maintenance Technician position at Howard Energy Partners?
The Maintenance Technician supports the maintenance, operation, and safety of facility equipment and grounds at Port Arthur OmniPort. Responsibilities include troubleshooting, repairing, and performing preventive maintenance on mechanical systems such as pumps, compressors, engines, and related equipment. The role ensures equipment reliability and facility upkeep while complying with safety, environmental, and Process Safety Management (PSM) standards. This position is structured in two levels (I and II), reflecting increasing technical proficiency, autonomy, and leadership support.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Performs or assists with maintenance, inspection, diagnosis, troubleshooting, repair, and overhaul of centrifugal pumps, diaphragm pumps, compressors, generators, engines, and power-driven equipment.
- Executes or supports Preventative Maintenance (PM) inspections and upkeep of maintenance schedules.
- Maintains and repairs ignition, carburetion, fuel injection, and emissions control systems.
- Maintains accurate logs and records, including compressor and engine hours, pump and motor runtime, oil sampling, parts and supplies inventories.
- Carries out general facility and equipment upkeep such as rail yard maintenance, tank area cleaning, vehicle upkeep, shops, sandblasting, soda blasting, power washing, sanding, painting, pipe insulation, sealant repair, and insulation blanket installation.
- Coordinates, supervises, or assists contractors and workforce during outages, turnarounds, and emergencies.
- Provides troubleshooting support and coordinates procurement of materials needed to complete maintenance jobs.
- Assists other technicians with routine activities including filter changes, pipefitting, welding, chemical loading, and safety watches (fire, confined space, excavation).
- Actively participates in safety meetings, follows all safety protocols, and uphold environmental and PSM regulations.
- Communicates effectively and provides timely updates to all relevant departments.
- Performs additional related duties as assigned.
Level-Specific Duties
- Level I – Entry: Works under close supervision, providing support across maintenance functions while gaining practical skills and understanding of mechanical equipment and plant operations. Assist with basic troubleshooting and preventive maintenance activities.
- Level II – Intermediate: Works under moderate supervision, demonstrating proficiency in maintenance tasks, troubleshooting complex equipment issues, and independently managing standard repair and maintenance assignments. May provide job supervision during outages and assist with training new team members.
Required Skills and Abilities
- Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to diagnose, repair, and maintain mechanical equipment and machinery.
- Understanding of compressor components, pumps, engines, motors, ignition, fuel systems, and emissions controls.
- Ability to develop and execute preventive maintenance plans.
- Proficient in maintaining logs, reports, and documenting maintenance activities.
- Ability to follow detailed manuals, procedures, and standards.
- Effective verbal and written communication skills.
- Competence with basic computer applications including spreadsheets and word processing.
- Ability to work independently or under supervision depending on level.
- Ability to handle multiple tasks in potentially hazardous or stressful environments.
- Strong commitment to safety, environmental compliance, and company policies.
- Team player with good customer relations skills.
Education and Experience
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Level I: Minimum 1 year of practical mechanical experience in a plant or industrial setting.
- Level II: Minimum 3 years of industry-related mechanical experience, including working on rotating equipment such as pumps and compressors. Experience with VRU compression and motor repair preferred. Familiarity with plant operations and process control advantageous.
Certifications
Relevant mechanical or safety certifications are a plus.
Work Environment and Physical Demands
This position requires rigorous physical activity including lifting, climbing, working in confined spaces, and exposure to flammable materials and hazardous conditions. Occasional travel to remote sites may be necessary. Compliance with all safety protocols and operating regulations is mandatory.
Equal Opportunity Statement
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.