Lease Operator

Production Optimization Specialist

Diagnose well problems with a focus on ensuring production optimization. Basic working knowledge of a production facility. Ability to bring on a well/facility with limited supervision. Ability to operate production facility equipment including but not limited to: separators, back pressure regulators, pumping units, treaters, pressure regulators, liquid level controllers, PSV's, ESD's, motor valves and gas compressors. Ability to repair dump valves and chokes. Ability to recognize when chemicals are necessary to optimize fluid separation and production. Ability to recognize when a well is liquid loading. Identifies liquid loading, potential artificial lift issues, etc. Complete testing of all safety devices to ensure equipment is functional within accepted standards. Maintain accurate records of all work performed into the company CMMS.

Essential Roles & Responsibilities:

• Able to operate basic equipment, including but not limited to Treater, Separator, Dump Valves, Pumping Units, Back Pressure Regulators
• Demonstrates knowledge of wells on route with the ability to walk through starting up a well and facility and ensuring all valves and equipment are set correctly
• Demonstrates general well head knowledge and proper valve operation
• Measures and records production accurately and timely on a daily basis
• Identify well performance problems and communicate to senior team member
• Maintain proper fluid levels and pressure on vessels
• Actively participate in safety meetings
• Respond promptly to emergency and call out situations as required by work schedule
• Perform maintenance, repairs and inspection on production equipment as needed
• Ability to trouble shoot issues with downhole and surface equipment
• Conduct business with the highest ethical standards; demonstrate decision-making skills that ensure the safety of all persons associated with SM facilities
• Other duties as assigned

Role-Specific Technical Knowledge & Skills

Basic knowledge of the industry and operations. Basic knowledge of the following discipline specific skills: This position needs to have an understanding of basic well production, chemical injection and maintenance. The physical ability to immediately respond to emergency situations, open and close valves and carry tools / equipment necessary to complete job duties. Maintain valid motor vehicle record and license. Ability to climb up to 30 feet in height. Conduct business with the highest ethical standards and ensure the safety of all persons associated with SM sites.

• Lease Operator –
• Gauge oil, water and gas daily and test wells as required.
• Manage daily production throughout the system and minimize downtime. Maintain production rate to optimize well performance.
• Daily production entry into Field Operator and verify data is complete and accurate. Ability to identify basic production equipment issues and report to supervisor. Conduct visual inspections of all surface equipment daily for leaks.
• Ability to assist maintenance operator with repair issues. Report all spills or environmental issues immediately.
• Ensure all production devices are operational and in good working order.
• Other duties as assigned.

Computer/Software Applications:

Basic level of skills and familiarity with Microsoft Office. Basic knowledge of the following discipline specific programs: SCADA, Reading Power BI Technical skills that allow easy adaptation to other related applications (Field Operator).

Education:

High School Diploma or Equivalent Required Associates or Bachelor's degree in related field preferred.

Typical Experience:

Minimum 2+ years of work experience required. Oil and gas industry experience a plus.

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.