Demo

Plant Operator - GEN

Howard Energy Partners
Laredo, TX Full Time
POSTED ON 4/2/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 5/1/2026
We are seeking a skilled and motivated Plant Operator to join our growing team in the midstream oil and gas industry. We have exciting opportunities available for individuals at various stages in their careers, from those just starting out to seasoned experts. In this singular role, you will be responsible for ensuring the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of our facility, which includes the cryogenic plant, amine treating plant, glycol and mole-sieve dehydration systems, tank farm, utilities, engines/compressors, PD pumps, and centrifugal pumps.

We offer a collaborative and supportive environment where you can apply your expertise and grow within our team.

Responsibilities (Vary by Level):

Entry-Level (I):

  • Monitor proper flows, temperatures, pressures, and levels across all plant systems, recognizing deviations and taking corrective action.
  • Operate plant processes using an HMI control system (preferably Delta V, Wonderware, or Ignition).
  • Recognize equipment abnormalities and promptly notify maintenance regarding significant repairs.
  • Record process parameters, complete operating reports, notify of environmental deviations, and implement equipment lockout/tag-out procedures for maintenance and repair.
  • Develop a basic understanding of operational capabilities, including gas/liquid hydraulics, control schemes, and component blending calculations.
  • Follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), adhere to safety protocols, and participate in scheduled on-call/relief duties.

Intermediate (II):

  • Independently operate plant processes using DCS/HMI systems (such as Wonderware) to maintain optimal performance.
  • Monitor and adjust operating parameters while performing both basic and complex blending and system pressure calculations.
  • Identify, document, and report deviations or potential safety and environmental concerns, working closely with maintenance to address issues.
  • Maintain clear and comprehensive documentation of process events and operational reports.
  • Demonstrate an increasing understanding of system operations and assist with the training of entry-level operators.
  • Adhere to PSM regulations and follow established crisis management and incident response protocols.

Senior (III):

  • Operate plant processes independently with minimal supervision, managing all aspects of the natural gas processing facility.
  • Utilize advanced control systems (e.g., Delta V, Wonderware, or equivalent) to perform complex operational tasks, including detailed blending and pressure calculations.
  • Quickly recognize operating deviations, execute corrective measures, and communicate with maintenance regarding significant repairs.
  • Maintain an expert-level understanding of gas/liquid hydraulics, control schemes, operational limits, and upstream/downstream quality specifications.
  • Serve as a technical expert and mentor, providing guidance to lower-level operators and assisting in the development and refinement of SOPs.
  • Ensure strict compliance with PSM regulations, safety protocols, and environmental standards while actively contributing to continuous improvement initiatives.

Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Valid driver's license
  • Proficient in operating HMI/DCS control systems (e.g., Delta V, Wonderware, or Ignition).
  • Strong understanding of gas and liquid hydraulics, control schemes, operational limits, and blending calculations.
  • Commitment to adhering to safety policies, PSM regulations, and crisis management/incident response plans.
  • Ability to follow and enforce Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills with strong troubleshooting abilities.
  • Basic computer skills, mechanical aptitude, and the ability to work under pressure and varying work conditions.

Experience:

  • Entry-Level (I): 1-year of operating experience in the oil/gas industry, particularly in a cryogenic or processing plant environment.
  • Intermediate (II): 3 years of operating experience in the oil/gas industry, particularly in a cryogenic or processing plant environment.
  • Senior (III): 5 years of operating experience in the oil/gas industry, particularly in a cryogenic or processing plant environment.

During the interview process, we will assess your experience, qualifications, and career goals to determine the appropriate level (I, II, or III) for your skillset. This ensures that you are placed in a role that aligns with your capabilities and provides opportunities for growth within our organization.

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.

Salary.com Estimation for Plant Operator - GEN in Laredo, TX
$80,566 to $99,109
If your compensation planning software is too rigid to deploy winning incentive strategies, it’s time to find an adaptable solution. Compensation Planning
Enhance your organization's compensation strategy with salary data sets that HR and team managers can use to pay your staff right. Surveys & Data Sets
Employees: Get a Salary Increase
View Core, Job Family, and Industry Job Skills and Competency Data for more than 15,000 Job Titles Skills Library

Job openings at Howard Energy Partners

  • Howard Energy Partners San Antonio, TX
  • The Engineer II is responsible for the implementation of the entire project cycle and provides engineering support for operating assets. Duties/Responsibil... more
  • 14 Days Ago

  • Howard Energy Partners Orla, TX
  • The Pipeline Operator I position requires travel to various field locations, including LACT units, tank batteries, compressor stations, and delivery points... more
  • 14 Days Ago

  • Howard Energy Partners San Antonio, TX
  • Job Summary: The AI Engineer is responsible for driving the strategic adoption of AI across the organization. This role is the "bridge" between complex bus... more
  • 14 Days Ago

  • Howard Energy Partners San Antonio, TX
  • The Senior Automation Control Specialist is a senior-level member of the Operational Technology (OT) team responsible for the advanced support, programming... more
  • 15 Days Ago


Not the job you're looking for? Here are some other Plant Operator - GEN jobs in the Laredo, TX area that may be a better fit.

  • City of McAllen, TX Allen, TX
  • The purpose of this position is to operate or control a system of machines that transfer and treat water. Employee performs a variety of duties and respons... more
  • 4 Days Ago

  • South Texas Concrete Donna, TX
  • Job Overview We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Batch Plant Operator to join our dynamic manufacturing team. In this role, you will be responsi... more
  • 10 Days Ago

AI Assistant is available now!

Feel free to start your new journey!