Lease Operator I - Pumper

Lease Operator I (Pumper)

Compensation $31.60/hr Location Monahans, TX Schedule 7/7 rotation, 10 hours per day Must be available for callouts as operational needs dictate. Target Start Date ASAP Vehicle Agency-supplied -ton truck Position Classification Safety Sensitive Scope The Lease Operator I is responsible for safely and efficiently operating, monitoring, and preparing oil and gas wells, production equipment, processing units, separation facilities, and related field infrastructure for maintenance. The role requires hands-on experience with oil, gas, and water separation, surface production equipment, process monitoring, basic mechanical maintenance, and field safety procedures. Candidates with new-facility startup and commissioning experience are highly desirable. The manager's strongest preferences are computer proficiency, mechanical experience, and demonstrated safety awareness.

Key Responsibilities

• Safely operate and monitor wells, production equipment, processing units, separation facilities, and associated utilities.
• Serve as the primary operations contact for assigned facilities.
• Understand process flow, operating lineups, isolation points, basic production chemistry, and facility safety systems.
• Review computer-generated operating data and schematics to confirm that processes are operating efficiently.
• Conduct physical equipment and facility inspections using sight, sound, smell, and touch.
• Gauge tanks, read meters, collect product samples, and accurately record production data.
• Monitor pressures, temperatures, levels, flow rates, vibration, differential pressure, and chemical injection rates.
• Identify leaks, freezing, overheating, abnormal equipment conditions, and other operational concerns.
• Adjust local process parameters to maintain production and product specifications.
• Issue Safe Work Permits and evaluate chemical, personnel, process, and equipment hazards.
• Perform gas testing to confirm that work areas are safe for maintenance activities.
• Coordinate oil sales and saltwater hauling as required.
• Maintain accurate electronic or paper gauge sheets and document reasons for production changes.
• Verify control valve positions and proper equipment lineups.
• Perform basic equipment maintenance, including adding lubricants and water, tightening valve packing, changing filters and steam traps, and clearing equipment.
• Communicate operating conditions and required changes to the Production Foreman.
• Perform seasonal equipment preparation, including winterization and summerization.
• Monitor equipment using handheld electronic testing devices and computer-based monitoring systems.
• Inspect safety valves, fire extinguishers, fire hoses, breathing apparatus, and other safety equipment.
• Operate and maintain the agency-supplied vehicle in safe working condition.
• Follow environmental policies and minimize spills, flaring, emissions, and other environmental impacts.
• Work independently when appropriate while supporting overall team objectives.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives involving safety, reliability, production, and operating efficiency.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Previous experience in lease operations, production operations, field operations, pumping, or a closely related oil and gas position.
• Ability to operate, maintain, and perform basic repairs on surface equipment associated with oil and gas production.
• Mechanical aptitude and hands-on equipment experience.
• Strong safety awareness and ability to follow safe work practices.
• Computer proficiency and ability to work with electronic production and monitoring systems.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability and willingness to work a 7/7 rotating schedule.
• Availability for callouts as operational conditions require.
• Ability to work independently in a field environment.
• Ability to lift more than 50 pounds and climb ladders and stairways.
• Ability to use an SCBA, gas detectors, and other required safety equipment.
• Ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Preferred Qualifications

• College coursework or a trade-school certificate.
• Previous Permian Basin lease operator or pumper experience.
• Experience with oil, gas, and water separation facilities.
• Experience issuing Safe Work Permits and performing gas testing.
• New-facility startup or commissioning experience.
• Strong computer and electronic reporting skills.
• Demonstrated mechanical troubleshooting experience.

Manager's Top Three Priorities

1. Computer proficiency
2. Mechanical experience
3. Safety experience and awareness

Interview Format A 30-minute in-person meet-and-greet is preferred. Zoom may be used when necessary.