Field Operator

Roles and responsibilities

Knowledge of the operations in petrochemical plants and products
Interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills
Time management
Teamwork and effective collaboration skills
IT proficiency
Awareness of HSE and quality standards
Attention to detail
HSE & quality awareness
Understanding of the DCS panel operations and an overall understanding of the products and related processes.
Equipment Operation and Monitoring:
Operate Field Equipment: Field operators are responsible for operating a wide range of field equipment, including pumps, compressors, engines, turbines, and other machinery used in industrial processes (e.g., oil rigs, power plants, or water treatment plants).
Monitor Systems: Continuously monitor the performance of equipment and systems using control panels, gauges, and sensors. Field operators must identify abnormal readings, such as pressure, temperature, flow rate, or level, and take corrective action when necessary.
Adjust Parameters: Adjust system settings or parameters (such as pressure, temperature, or flow) to optimize performance, prevent downtime, and meet production targets.
2. Troubleshooting and Maintenance:
Identify Issues: Recognize signs of malfunction or failure in equipment, machinery, or processes and troubleshoot problems in real-time to minimize production downtime.
Perform Routine Maintenance: Conduct preventive and corrective maintenance tasks, such as cleaning, lubricating, and inspecting equipment to ensure it is functioning properly.
Repair and Replace Components: If equipment breaks down, field operators often perform repairs or replace damaged parts to keep operations running smoothly. They may work with a team of technicians or supervisors to resolve more complex issues.
3. Safety and Compliance:
Adhere to Safety Protocols: Ensure that all operations are conducted in compliance with company safety standards and industry regulations. Field operators must wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow standard operating procedures (SOPs).
Emergency Response: Be prepared to act quickly in the event of an emergency, such as equipment failure, fire, gas leak, or any hazardous situations. Field operators may be involved in emergency shut-down procedures and coordinate with emergency response teams.
Hazardous Materials Handling: In certain industries (such as oil and gas or chemical processing), field operators may handle hazardous materials. They must follow strict safety procedures to prevent spills, leaks, and other environmental hazards.
4. Data Collection and Reporting:
Log Operational Data: Maintain accurate records of equipment performance, production data, and maintenance activities. This data is essential for reporting, analysis, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
Report Issues: When problems are detected or preventative maintenance is required, field operators report findings to supervisors or maintenance teams and assist in diagnosing issues.
Process Monitoring: Track and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs), such as system output, operational efficiency, and equipment utilization, to optimize performance and productivity.
5. Collaboration and Coordination:
Work with Teams: Field operators work closely with maintenance teams, engineers, safety officers, and supervisors to ensure smooth operations and resolve issues.
Coordinate with Control Room: In many industrial settings, the field operator may be in communication with a control room or central monitoring station. Operators may follow instructions from the control room and send real-time updates about field conditions.
Assist in Training: Experienced field operators may assist in training new hires or junior operators on proper equipment handling, safety procedures, and operational protocols.
6. Process Optimization and Continuous Improvement:
Optimize Processes: Field operators often provide feedback to improve processes, reduce downtime, and increase efficiency. This may involve suggesting equipment upgrades, procedural changes, or ways to reduce energy consumption.
Implement Best Practices: Ensure that industry best practices and company standards are followed to optimize production processes, improve product quality, and reduce waste.

Desired candidate profile

• Control Panels and SCADA Systems: Tools used to monitor and control equipment and processes remotely.
• Hand Tools and Power Tools: Field operators often use tools like wrenches, drills, and specialized equipment for repairs and maintenance.
• Diagnostic Equipment: Tools to help identify faults in mechanical, electrical, or chemical systems, such as multimeters, oscilloscopes, and vibration analyzers.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Depending on the industry, PPE may include hard hats, gloves, protective eyewear, respirators, and flame-resistant clothing.

Industries & Work Environments:

Field operators are found across a wide variety of industries, including:

1. Oil & Gas:

   • Offshore platforms, drilling rigs, oil refineries, and gas processing plants. Field operators ensure smooth production, safety, and maintenance operations.

2. Power Generation:

   • Power plants (including fossil fuel, nuclear, and renewable energy plants), where field operators are responsible for managing turbines, generators, and electrical systems.

3. Manufacturing and Production:

   • Factories producing goods in sectors like automotive, chemicals, food and beverage, and electronics.

4. Chemical Processing:

   • In facilities where chemicals are manufactured or processed, ensuring safe operations of reactors, distillation columns, and mixers.

5. Water and Wastewater Treatment:

   • Field operators in water treatment plants handle systems that treat and distribute water, as well as manage wastewater systems.

6. Mining and Construction:

   • Field operators may be involved in the operation of heavy machinery, such as excavators, loaders, and crushers in mining or construction environments.