Lease Operator III

Location: Carlsbad, NM Schedule: 8/6 Rotation Type: W2 Contract (12 months, potential extension) Benefits: Dental, Health, Vision & 401(k) Overview We are seeking a skilled Lease Operator responsible for ensuring the safe, efficient operation, monitoring, and maintenance preparation of wells, processing units, and related facilities. This role focuses on oil, gas, and water separation operations, along with major utilities. It involves participation in facility start-up, process optimization, work permitting, and training activities. Candidates with experience in new facility start-up and operations are highly preferred. Key Responsibilities Safety & Compliance Maintain personal safety and ensure the safety of all team members Follow and enforce all company safety policies and procedures Issue Safe Work Permits and assess chemical, personnel, and process risks Perform gas testing to ensure safe working conditions Inspect safety equipment (valves, extinguishers, breathing apparatus, etc.) Execute work in compliance with environmental policies, minimizing emissions and spills Operations & Monitoring Serve as the primary operations contact for assigned facilities Understand process flow, unit chemistry, and safety systems Monitor systems using computer data, schematics, and field instruments Conduct routine inspections using sight, sound, smell, and touch Record operational data (gauge readings, pressure, flow rates, etc.) Collect product samples and monitor injection rates Identify and respond to leaks, freezing, overheating, and abnormal conditions Adjust process parameters (temperature, pressure, etc.) to maintain optimal performance Maintenance & Equipment Care Perform basic equipment maintenance (lubrication, tightening, filter changes, etc.) Conduct “visual maintenance” by checking key performance indicators Inspect and verify control valve positions Carry out seasonal equipment preparation (winterization/summerization) Maintain company vehicle in safe working condition Coordination & Communication Coordinate oil sales and saltwater hauling activities Maintain accurate production and gauge records Communicate regularly with the Production Foreman regarding operations Support continuous improvement initiatives Field Technology & Tools Use handheld monitors and electronic equipment to monitor field operations Utilize company-provided gas monitor, computer, and phone Qualifications & Skills High School Diploma (required); College degree or trade certification preferred Prior experience in a similar operations or production role Strong teamwork and interpersonal skills Ability to work rotating shifts and respond to call-outs as needed Comfortable working in a multi-cultural environment Knowledge of oil & gas surface equipment operations and maintenance Strong computer skills and effective communication (written and verbal) Physical Requirements Ability to lift 50+ lbs Able to climb ladders and stairs regularly Capable of using Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) and safety equipment What We Offer Company-provided gas monitor, computer, and phone Opportunity to work on large-scale facility start-ups Hands-on experience with advanced operational tools and systems A safety-focused, team-oriented work environment