Lease Operator

Job Title

Lease Operator I

Up to $31.60/hr

Carlsbad, NM

8/6 Rotation

The Lease Operator I is responsible for the safe and efficient operation, monitoring, and maintenance preparation of wells, processing units, and related facilities. This position focuses on oil, gas, and water separation facility operations along with supporting utilities. The role may support facility start‑ups and requires the use of operational tools, work permitting procedures, and operational best practices.

Candidates with experience supporting new facility start-up and field operations are preferred.

• Maintain personal safety and ensure the safety of coworkers while following all company safety rules and procedures
• Serve as the primary operations contact for assigned facilities
• Understand process flow, unit chemistry basics, major equipment line-ups, and safety equipment including isolation points
• Review computer data and schematics to monitor and optimize operations
• Inspect and monitor equipment and work areas using sight, hearing, smell, and touch to verify proper operation
• Issue Safe Work Permits and evaluate chemical, personnel, and process safety risks
• Perform gas testing to confirm work areas are safe for maintenance activities
• Conduct routine monitoring activities including gauging tanks, reading meters, recording operational data, collecting product samples, and monitoring differential pressure and chemical injection rates
• Identify and check for leaks, freezing, overheating, and other equipment issues
• Monitor and record operational parameters such as temperature, pressure, level, flow rate, and vibration
• Adjust local process parameters to maintain product specifications within optimal operating conditions
• Maintain company vehicle in safe and working condition
• Coordinate oil sales and saltwater hauling as required
• Maintain accurate electronic or paper gauge sheets and document production changes
• Inspect control valve positions to ensure correct alignment
• Perform basic maintenance including adding lubrication oil or water, tightening valve packing, changing filters, clearing equipment, and replacing steam traps
• Communicate regularly with the Production Foreman regarding process conditions and operational changes
• Perform seasonal winterization and summarization tasks to maximize equipment efficiency
• Monitor field equipment using handheld electronic monitors and computerized systems
• Inspect safety equipment including safety valves, fire extinguishers, fire hoses, and breathing apparatus
• Support continuous improvement initiatives within assigned operations
• Follow environmental policies and procedures to minimize emissions, spills, and environmental impact
• Follow company policies and procedures while continuously improving job knowledge and technical skills
• Maintain reliable attendance and support team objectives while working independently when required

• High school diploma required
• Previous experience in a related oil and gas operations role preferred
• Ability to work rotating shifts
• Must be available for call-outs as operational needs arise
• Ability to work effectively in a multi-cultural environment
• Ability to maintain, operate, and repair surface equipment used in oil and gas production
• Computer proficiency with strong written and verbal communication skills
• Must be physically capable of lifting over 50 lbs and climbing ladders or stairs
• Must be able to use a Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) and other safety detection equipment

• Candidates must currently live in or near Carlsbad, NM