Lease Operator

The Lease Operator performs duties on land and is responsible for the daily operations of the oil and gas processing equipment. The individual will maintain the production rate throughout the system, perform daily operational check of assigned wells and production facilities, ensure that safety devices are operational, and test wells to determine production rates. Additionally, the Lease Operator will identify problems or potential problems with equipment; prepare documentation / production reports on a periodic basis and assist in the repair of equipment.  Lease Operators are also responsible for ensuring safe and environmentally sound operations in their area or responsibility. 

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES/DUTIES:

• Gauge production and test wells as required
• Ensure proper reporting of production and downtime
• Maintain production rate throughout the system
• Daily production data entry
• Optimize production from wells by adjusting Pump-Off-Controller setpoints, etc.
• Diagnose well problems with a focus on ensuring production optimization
• Ensure compliance with all Environmental, Health and Safety requirements
• Actively engage with land owners and maintain strong relationships/communication to identify and resolve issues
• May perform minor equipment repair
• May participate in leading safety meetings and reviews
• 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

EXPERIENCE/EDUCATION:

• High School diploma required
• Minimum of 2 years of applicable job/industry experience
• Candidates with an engineering degree and no experience will be considered

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

• Proficient utilization of Microsoft Office
• Awareness of cost metrics and analysis
• Basic knowledge of downhole operations, failure analysis, best practices
• Working knowledge of facility construction practices and standards
• Working knowledge in the area of Health, Environmental Compliance and Safety
• Demonstrate leadership abilities; takes initiative on team tasks
• Must have strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Must have valid driver’s license

• 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

As part of the hiring process, the Company reserves the right, consistent with all applicable federal, state and local law, to conduct certain pre-employment screening, which includes but may not be limited to, certain job-related medical examinations, drug and alcohol testing, background checks, and gathering of motor vehicle reports and incidents for positions requiring driving on Company business or in a Company vehicle.  SM Energy will review the results of those inquiries on an individualized basis as part of its overall decision making process