Operations Specialist (UN747)

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:

This position ensures the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of natural gas pipeline systems, compressor stations, and related facilities. Responsibilities include installation, maintenance, inspection, and repair, along with oversight of construction and regulatory compliance. The role requires working independently and collaboratively, following procedures, adapting to specialized tools, new software, evolving regulations, and performing duties in all weather conditions. Required to respond to after-hour callouts and must be willing to work overtime including nights, weekends and holidays.

Pay Range: $29.19 - $40.91 per hour (Determined by the current Collective Bargaining Agreement)

Reporting Relationship: Gas Operations Supervisor

Location: Oil Springs, Wyoming

Essential Functions:
* Ensure the cost effective and efficient performance of all pipelines, valves and other related facilities. Responsible for installing, relocating, replacing, maintaining and repairing gas lines. Inspect pipeline and structural welding required for construction and maintenance of Company facilities including the installation, operation, and maintenance of distribution and transmission facilities.
* Responsible for the general upkeep and maintenance of all facilities and equipment, including pipeline right-of-way. Tasks include excavation, repairing, coating, backfilling, concrete work, painting, building erection, weed control, and assisting other technical teams as needed.
* Locate and mark facilities per Company Damage Prevention Program and One-Call procedures prior to and during encroachments and excavations. Coordinate local Damage Prevention activities.
* Perform pipeline patrols, population density surveys, leak detection surveys and inspection per company procedures.
* Responsible for inspection duties per Company policies including: completion of required documentation, as-built drawings, contractor oversight and supervision, act as Company representative during construction activities, report progress to Operations Management and ensure proper reporting and compliance with Safety and Environmental policies.
* Participates in quality emergency responder programs. Perform governmental compliance activities (PHMSA, State Agencies, EPA, USFS, etc.). Identify report and correct safety and environmental concerns.
* Represent the Company during contacts with landowner/tenant, public official, emergency official and local organization (i.e. One-Call, Pipeline Group, Soil Conservation, etc.) meetings.
* Inspect/oversee the construction and /or maintenance activities performed by third parties. Train and oversee company and third party personnel as required (i.e. personnel in progression, contractors, visitors, etc.).
* Perform mapping, record keeping and data entry duties per company policies. Participate in the development of O&M Procedures, Site Specific Procedures, project scopes and work plans.
* Perform other duties as required.

Additional Responsibilities:
* Work autonomously under minimal supervision. Working and driving outside in extreme weather conditions is common along with providing emergency response after regular business hours, necessitating the carrying of a company cell phone.
* Maintain a high regard for personal safety, for the safety of employees and company assets, contractors, and the general public.
* Deal with and speak to, both in person and by telephone, with a wide variety of people using tact, courtesy, and professionalism.

What Is Required:
* High School Diploma or equivalent
* Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license and a driving record satisfactory to the company and its insurers.
* Must have a working knowledge in the use of common software applications such as Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook). Candidates should also possess the ability to troubleshoot basic computer issues and have the capacity to learn new software and technologies as needed.
* Must be a self-starter capable of working independently in solitary environments as well as collaboratively within a team. Candidates should be able to take direction from supervisors, adhere to job schedules, maintain attention to detail, and follow established work rules.
* Required to achieve and maintain operations qualifications and certifications as required to perform job duties.
* Perform governmental compliance activities (PHMSA, WY Public Service Commission, EPA, USFS, BLM, etc.)
* Ability to perform a range of physical tasks, including but not limited to, sitting, standing, driving, bending or stooping, squatting or crouching, reaching, kneeling, pushing, pulling, lifting up to 50lbs, and typing.
* Basic math skills (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, decimals).

What Is Desired:
* Experience in line locating
* Experience in natural gas system maintenance and construction
* Experience reading and interpreting blueprints, sketches, and other diagrams.
* Detailed knowledge of natural gas distribution, transmission and gathering pipeline system operations preferred
* Knowledge of operating costs and best practices associated with natural gas pipeline operations, and the ability to estimate pipeline jobs, provide developer/contractor bids and complete AFE requests preferred.
* General knowledge and experience of regulators, relief valves, and safe handling practices of flammable gases, liquids and high-pressure systems
* Knowledge of Company policies, procedures and practices and regulatory and tariff requirements.
* Experience in the operation and maintenance of compressor and auxiliary equipment, engines, motors, cooling equipment, pump stations, pumps, dehydration equipment and process equipment preferred
* Ability to operate heavy equipment including backhoe, front end loaders, tractor trailer combinations and cranes.

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), 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 jobs@blackhillscorp.com.

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.