Sr. Lease Operator

Position Summary:

Lease Operator will be responsible for but not limited to the following duties.

• Has a strong understanding of industry standards and terminology.
• Manages daily production throughout the area of responsibility with minimal downtime.
• Maintain production rate to optimize well performance.
• Daily production entry into AVM and verify data is complete and accurate on site.
• Ability to identify production equipment issues and report to supervisor.
• Conduct visual inspections of all surface equipment daily for leaks.
• Report all spills or environmental issues immediately.
• Ensure all production devices are operational and in good working order.
• Diagnose and solve well problems with a focus on ensuring production optimization.
• Strong artificial lift knowledge, operational skills and diagnosis of the following forms of artificial lift:
  • Plunger operations
  • Gas Lift operations to include GAPL & PAGL
• Proficient working knowledge of production facilities and the ability to bring on a well / facility with limited supervision.
• The ability to operate production facility equipment including but not limited to
  • 3 phase & sand separators
  • Electronic end devices
  • Back pressure valves & regulators
  • Treaters
  • Liquid level controllers
  • PSV’s & ESD’s
  • Motor control valves
  • Gauge tanks
  • Fluid pumps
  • Gas compressors
• Ability to diagnose and make repairs on all associated equipment.
• The ability to recognize when chemicals are necessary to optimize fluid separation and production.
• Recognize when a well is liquid loading.
• Identify potential artificial lift issues.
• Maintains accurate records of all work performed into the company CMMS (Computer Maintenance Management System).
• The individual will be expected to train/mentor "Operator I and II" and work with minimal supervision

Computer / Software Applications:

• Proficient level of skills and familiarity with Microsoft Office. Proficient knowledge of the following discipline specific programs:
• CMMS
• SCADA or other forms of well monitoring systems.

Typical Experience:

• Minimum 5 years of work experience required in the oil and gas industry.

Typical Education:

• High School Diploma or Equivalent Required
• Associate or bachelor’s degree in related field preferred

Location & Work Schedule:

• Catarina, TX - 7 days on/7 days off schedule

Physical Demands:

• Work in various weather conditions and environments
• Move, transport, and position equipment weighing up to 50 pounds
• Manipulate valves, gauges, and other control mechanisms
• Ability to operate a motor vehicle to travel between well sites**
• Ability to climb up to 30 feet in height and function without fear
• Ability to stand and walk for prolonged periods of time
  ** Must meet and maintain eligibility requirements to drive a company vehicle OR valid state driver’s license and clean driving record

SM Energy offers competitive compensation and benefits programs which include, but are not limited to, variable pay, health care coverage, retirement plan, protection coverage, time off and leave programs, training and development opportunities and a range of allowances connected to specific work situations. Details are available at Careers :: SM Energy Company (SM) (sm-energy.com).

Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the position is filled.