Service Unit Operators, Oil and Gas
What is a Service Unit Operators, Oil and Gas?
Service Unit Operators in the oil and gas industry are specialized technicians who manage and operate various service units used during drilling and completing oil and gas wells. These professionals are crucial to ensuring that operations run smoothly and safely. They handle a variety of tasks, including the setup and operation of equipment like cementing units, coiled tubing units, and other well service equipment. Service Unit Operators are responsible for following prescribed procedures and safety guidelines to ensure the effective delivery of services to clients in the field. Their role often involves working in challenging environments, requiring a strong understanding of mechanical systems, as well as the ability to troubleshoot and make quick decisions on site. Additionally, these operators may be involved in maintaining equipment, conducting pre-operation inspections, and documenting operational data. Service Unit Operators play a vital part in the extraction process, contributing significantly to the overall productivity of oil and gas exploration and production efforts.
Tasks
- Maintain and perform safety inspections on equipment and tools.
- Operate controls that raise derricks or level rigs.
- Listen to engines, rotary chains, or other equipment to detect faulty operations or unusual well conditions.
- Prepare reports of services rendered, tools used, or time required, for billing purposes.
- Install pressure-control devices onto wellheads.
Technology Skills
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Spreadsheet software
- Microsoft Excel
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Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
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Enterprise resource planning ERP software
- SAP software
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Facilities management software
- Computerized maintenance management system CMMS
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Office suite software
- Microsoft Office software
Tools Used
- Pipe handling equipment
- Screwdrivers
- Hoists
- Slickline chemical cutters
- Hex keys
Knowledge
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Mechanical
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
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Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
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Customer and Personal Service
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
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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.
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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.
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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Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
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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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Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Abilities
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Arm-Hand Steadiness
The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
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Control Precision
The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
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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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Multilimb Coordination
The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down. It does not involve performing the activities while the whole body is in motion.
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Near Vision
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
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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Less than high school diploma
Work Activities
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Controlling Machines and Processes
Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
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Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials
Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
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Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
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Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others
Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
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Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings
Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
Detailed Work Activities
- Inspect equipment or tools to be used in construction or excavation.
- Maintain extraction or excavation equipment.
- Monitor extraction operations.
- Operate cranes, hoists, or other moving or lifting equipment.
- Prepare operational reports.
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
$38090.0 - $87350.0
New job opportunities are less likely in the future. : Below Average
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.