Demo

Lead Operator

Jonah Energy
Jal, NM Full Time
POSTED ON 1/3/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 2/17/2026

POSITION SUMMARY


Under very limited supervision of the Operations Foreman, the Lead Operator acts as a lead and can handle the most complex of duties. The Lead Operator is responsible for safety, equipment, inspection, and assistance in overall production operations. The Lead Operator analyzes and solves complex production related problems. The Lead Operator supervises Lease Operators and ensures oil and gas production are optimized to reach production and operating expense goals as per the budget plan.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Work with engineering, accounting, completions, construction, EH&S, planning, land and regulatory to improve operations, accurately account for production, reduce operating expense, implement new technology and reduce safety and environmental hazards.
  • Assist operations team with overall maintenance and operation, supervising production operations including contract/employee pumper activities and general maintenance, as well as field measurement for accurate reporting.
  • Maintain compliance, in conjunction with and through close coordination with the Operation Foreman and EHS Department, for all regulatory, environmental and safety issues. Participate in and champion the safety program.
  • Operate and perform advanced trouble shooting on production equipment, compressors, and standard artificial lift systems.
  • Support and maintain all Company policies. Secure and maintain all Jonah-issued equipment, including but not limited to computers, vehicles and analysis of test equipment.
  • Acts with responsibility and authority to stop unsafe work by employees or contractors, exercising authority to intervene and stop unsafe practices as necessary.
  • Supervise Lease Operators, roustabout/service crews on proper work and procedures when needed. Assist to maintain good relations with vendors, contractors, landowners, and the community.
  • Recognize problems and fix them.
  • Ensure operating team performs maintenance tasks needed to keep all equipment running properly.
  • Provide field-wide contact with all personnel in the event of emergency or other significant occurrences.
  • Align priorities and results with Jonah Energy Asset goals.
  • Maintain respectful and productive working relationships within and across all work groups, ensuring effective collaboration and cooperation.
  • Create a work environment that is consistent with the Company's Purpose, Vision & Core Values.

OTHER DUTIES

  • Perform other duties and projects as assigned to support the success of the department and company.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Supervises team of Lease Operators, approve timecards, PTO and responsible for performance management.
  • Supervises team of Contract Operators, approve invoices and track contractor individual performance.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

  • Self-motivated and an enthusiastic team player capable of completing tasks with little supervision to meet sensitive deadlines and production goals.
  • Strong working experience and knowledge to operate wells with a complete understanding of all equipment and processes.
  • Coordinate, plan and execute short and long-term work tasks to meet production and LOE goals, while working across multiple well routes.
  • Train, mentor, and increase the skill level of less experienced operators in all aspects of their duties.
  • Working knowledge of oil/gas production operations, including surface equipment, surface electrical and electronic controls, gas flow measurement. Willingness to take and apply advanced training in all areas of artificial lift and production operations.
  • Knowledge of downhole operations.
  • Exhibit and promote safe work behavior and habits.
  • Proficient to advanced computer skills to work with Microsoft Office, ProdView, SCADA.
  • Understand the safe operation of valves and facilities operating under high pressure/temperature.
  • Creative individual, capable of analyzing and solving mechanical problems.
  • Skillfully maneuver heavy objects and efficiently operate machinery.
  • Work in temperatures between -20 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit on a seasonal basis.
  • Operate a vehicle safely (in all weather conditions) to drive to oil & gas equipment locations located in rural/open range country.
  • Work performed in hazardous driving and working conditions in all seasons of the year.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills; effectively converse with all levels of the company, customers, business associates.
  • Professional integrity and accountability.
  • Work in fast-paced, collaborative environment.

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND QUALIFICATIONS

  • High School Diploma or equivalent
  • 5 years' Oil and Gas Lease Operator experience
  • Previous supervisory experience

REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES

  • Valid driver's license

PREFERRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

  • None

PREFERRED EDUCATION AND QUALIFICATIONS

  • None

PREFERRED CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES

  • Well Control Certification

POSITION SCOPE & IMPACT

  • Responsible for assigned area and team to operate effectively and efficiently
  • Impact on assigned area: field production and operations and overall, Company performance

TRAVEL

  • As business requires

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS


Physical Demand

NA

Rare

0-30%

Occasional

30-60%

Frequent

60-90%

Constant

90-100%

Weight

Standing

X

Walking, on uneven surfaces

X

Sitting

X

Lifting

X

Up to 80 lbs.

Carrying

X

Up to 80 lbs.

Pushing

X

Pulling

X

Climbing

X

Balancing

X

Stooping

X

Kneeling

X

Crouching

X

Crawling

X

Reaching

X

Handling

X

Grasping

X

Feeling

X

Talking

X

Hearing

X

Repetitive Motions

X

Eye/Hand/Foot Coordination

X

WORK ENVIRONMENT


Working Condition

NA

Rare

0-30%

Occasional

30-60%

Frequent

60-90%

Constant

90-100%

Extreme cold

X

Extreme heat

X

Humidity

X

Wet

X

Noise

X

Hazards

X

Temperature Change

X

Atmospheric Conditions

X

Vibration

X

Other:

This position follows a 14-day-on/14-day-off schedule. During your 14-day work period, you will be based in a remote location and reside in a man camp.

Jonah Energy determines the salary level for potential new employees by considering a candidate's experience, skills, and education, along with the position's work location, external market conditions and internal pay equity.

We offer a comprehensive benefit package including generous PTO, 401k match and discretionary profit sharing, tuition assistance, professional development, and eligibility for short- and long-term incentive program. Additionally, eligible employees may enroll in health, dental, vision and life insurance on their first day of employment and elect from several voluntary group benefits. As an employee you have the opportunity to make a difference in a company where your position is critical to project success

It has been and will continue to be the policy of Jonah Energy LLC not to discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of their race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, disability, or other legally protected status. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of pre-employment screenings.

Salary.com Estimation for Lead Operator in Jal, NM
$77,752 to $96,813
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