Sr. Operations Specialist – Compression

This position is responsible for the daily optimization of gas/electric rotating equipment involving vapor recovery and gas lift compression for their areas, including the identification of problems or potential problems. Recommending and making changes to compression equipment, settings, documentation, reporting and training operators on changes.

Primary Job Responsibilities:

• Monitor compression trends, to minimize downtime and maximize production.
• Monitor compression equipment performance, failures, and failure root causes.
• Identify optimization opportunities from adjustments to compression equipment and settings.
• Troubleshoot ongoing field operational issues related to vapor recovery and gas lift equipment.
• Collaborate with engineering upon compressor PSSR’s.
• Oversee compressor start up’s and build out pre and post start up commissioning reports.
• Work with production teams to develop and conduct lease operator training on compressor operations.
• On-the-job training with less experienced team members.
• Manage vendors and develop long term relationships, set expectations and regularly review runtime performance.
• Work closely with the air and compliance teams to understand the regulations and hold vendors to these standards.
• Work in all weather conditions including rain, snow, mud, etc. – work is performed in hazardous driving and working conditions all seasons of the year.
• Operate a vehicle safely in all weather conditions to drive to and from oil and gas equipment located in rural/open range country.
• Follow safe operating practices and ensure compliance with all SM Energy Environment, Safety & Regulatory requirements.
• Assure work performed adheres to SM Energy standards.
• Performs all other duties as assigned.

Knowledge/Skills/Competencies:

• Strong mechanical ability and demonstrated ability to optimize compression and minimize downtime.
• Knowledge of basic oil & gas processing equipment.
• Basic computer skills (e.g., e-mail, Word, Excel).
• Ability to work on all forms of compression including gas / electric styles
• Proficient in compression failure diagnoses/troubleshooting
• Ability to repair equipment, as needed, and read equipment gauges on compressor equipment.
• Ability to lift 50 lbs. and maneuver heavy objects.
• Proven ability to multi-task and meet stringent deadlines with a positive and helpful “can-do” attitude.
• Demonstrated knowledge of safe work behavior and habits.
• Ability to work independently and effectively with a diverse group.
• Work well with all field team members along with all office support needs.
• Ability and willingness to work weekends, holidays, and overtime as needed. 

Education & Experience:

• 8+ years’ oil & gas field compression, operations or adjacent field.
• Trade school or bachelor’s degree preferred but not required.

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.