Gas Plant Operators
What is a Gas Plant Operator?
Gas Plant Operators are professionals responsible for overseeing and managing the operations of gas processing plants. Their primary role involves monitoring equipment, controlling the processing of natural gas, and ensuring the safety and efficiency of gas production. They work with various systems designed to separate different components of natural gas, such as methane, ethane, and other hydrocarbons, while also managing by-products like water and impurities.
The job requires a deep understanding of the processes involved in gas extraction and processing, as well as compliance with safety regulations to prevent accidents and environmental hazards. Gas Plant Operators often use advanced computer systems to control machinery, monitor performance indicators, and maintain records of operations. This role may involve regular maintenance of equipment, troubleshooting any operational issues, and coordinating with other workers to ensure smooth operations within the plant.
Operators may also work alongside engineers and technicians to implement process improvements or upgrades to increase plant efficiency. As the demand for natural gas continues to rise, the need for skilled operators is crucial in maintaining the integrity and productivity of gas facilities, making this a vital career in the energy sector.
Tasks
- Monitor equipment functioning, observe temperature, level, and flow gauges, and perform regular unit checks to ensure that all equipment is operating as it should.
- Distribute or process gas for utility companies or industrial plants, using panel boards, control boards, and semi-automatic equipment.
- Control operation of compressors, scrubbers, evaporators, and refrigeration equipment to liquefy, compress, or regasify natural gas.
- Control equipment to regulate flow and pressure of gas to feedlines of boilers, furnaces, and related steam-generating or heating equipment.
- Record, review, and compile operations records, test results, and gauge readings such as temperatures, pressures, concentrations, and flows.
Technology Skills
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Spreadsheet software
- Microsoft Excel
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Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
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Data base user interface and query software
- Operating log software
- Quorum PGAS
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Electronic mail software
- Microsoft Outlook
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Enterprise resource planning ERP software
- SAP software
Tools Used
- Gas recovery machinery
- Compressor control panels
- Dehydrators
- Gas or vapour concentration measuring instruments
- Multimeters
Knowledge
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Public Safety and Security
Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
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Mechanical
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
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English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
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Computers and Electronics
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
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Engineering and Technology
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
Skills
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Operations Monitoring
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
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Operation and Control
Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
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Monitoring
Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
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Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
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Judgment and Decision Making
Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Abilities
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Perceptual Speed
The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among sets of letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns. The things to be compared may be presented at the same time or one after the other. This ability also includes comparing a presented object with a remembered object.
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Near Vision
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
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Problem Sensitivity
The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.
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Auditory Attention
The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distracting sounds.
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Selective Attention
The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
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High school diploma or equivalent
or: GED, High School Equivalency Certificate
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Post-secondary certificate
Awarded for training completed after high school (for example, in Personnel Services, Engineering-related Technologies, Vocational Home Economics, Construction Trades, Mechanics and Repairers, Precision Production Trades)
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Associate's degree
Work Activities
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Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events
Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
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Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings
Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
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Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
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Making Decisions and Solving Problems
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
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Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards
Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
Detailed Work Activities
- Monitor equipment operation to ensure proper functioning.
- Inspect production equipment.
- Operate natural gas distribution equipment.
- Record operational or production data.
- Advise others on ways to improve processes or products.
Work Interests
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Realistic
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
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Conventional
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
$53330.0 - $108340.0
New job opportunities are less likely in the future. : Below Average
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.