Operations Technician

Job Specifications Black Hills Energy is people powered and purpose driven. Our team uses the power of energy to improve life for over one million customers in 800+ communities across the West and Midwest. We seek talented, caring people who embody our core values and contribute to a culture of inclusion and growth. As an organization, we believe the best part of working on our team is our commitment to making tomorrow better than today-for our customers, communities and each other. Position summary: In this role the Gas Operations Technician will safely perform general gas distribution system maintenance, operation, leak survey, odorization, CP and construction work. Pay Range: This posting includes the full pay range for this position. Pay is based on a number of factors and may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and internal equity. Level I: $25.72 - $38.44 per hour Level II: $28.75 - $43.17 per hour Senior: $32.36 - $48.41 per hour Reporting Relationship: Gas Operations Supervisor Location: Liberal, Kansas Essential Functions: * Provide recommendations on proper material type and size to accommodate load requirements and pressure. * Insure accurate location and installation of facilities such as service lines, mains and meter sets. * Proficient in underground line locating. * Above and underground leak classification and repairs. * Gas measurement, pressure regulation and over pressure protection installations. * Install facilities according to specifications such as trench depth/width, proper auguring, plowing and shoring. * Perform hot line tapping of mains and services of various sizes and type by selection of proper equipment and using correct procedures. * Perform leak repair on underground facilities using approved repair methods and materials based on type of sizes of mains and services. * Maintain certification and perform plastic fusion of mains and services and proper installation of mechanical fittings. * Perform Walking Gas Leak Survey with an Instrument. * Perform Odorant Checks and Preform Maintenance on Odorizers. * Perform CP Checks. Additional Responsibilities: * Perform pressure testing of facilities to ensure integrity and satisfy company and Regulatory requirements and proper above grade corrosion control by application of recommended painting techniques and material, also below grade corrosion control and anode installation surface preparation and coating applications. * Inspect and supervise construction activities of gas contract construction crews. * Other duties as required. What Is Required: Level I: * High School Diploma or equivalent. Level II: * High School Diploma or equivalent * Minimum of 2 years of experience in natural gas, construction, maintenance, or other related experience is required. Senior: * High School Diploma or equivalent * Minimum of 4 years of experience in natural gas, construction, maintenance, or other related experience is required. What Is Desired: * Comprehensive understanding of gas operating safety procedures. * Familiarity of Black Hills construction standards and procedures. * Ability to pass PE Fusion certificate. * Ability to effectively prioritize projects and equipment needs while maintaining a rigorous construction activity schedule. * A demonstrated mechanical ability, the ability to read and understand operation manuals and has a solid understanding of regulators, meters, and pipefitting and gas operations. * Ability to remain calm and make effective spontaneous decision during emergency situations that may affect the safety of the general public, contractors and other employees. * Effective customer interaction and resolution skills. * Familiarity with steel welding procedures. This description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of responsibilities, duties, and requirements for employees in this position. Job descriptions may and do change periodically. Where positions are covered by a collective bargaining unit agreement, the terms and conditions of the agreement will apply. About our Company: We are a customer, growth and safety focused utility company that is dedicated to our communities. We improve life with energy as an energy partner of choice. Our diverse culture fuels unique perspectives, opening doors to new insights and possibilities. Based in Rapid City, South Dakota, we have over 3000 employees and serve 1.3 million natural gas and electric utility customers across eight states (South Dakota, Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, and Arkansas). Enjoy our Comprehensive Benefits Package! Annual discretionary bonuses, 401(k) (6% company match and up to 9% company retirement contribution), tuition reimbursement, generous paid time off benefits, including paid holidays and parental leave, company paid life insurance and disability benefits (short and long term), critical illness, accident & group hospital insurance, pet insurance, an employee assistance program and well-being benefits, and competitive medical, dental and vision insurance. Candidates must successfully pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check. If there is anything that may show up in these reports that may conflict with the position requirements, feel free to contact the Black Hills Energy recruiting team at . Black Hills Energy does not sponsor applicants for work visas. All applicants must be legally authorized to work in the US. We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or status as a protected veteran. If you require reasonable accommodation, please visit careers.blackhillsenergy.com for more information.