A gas plant operator is in charge of the production, storage, and transportation of various gases. The majority of operators work for utility and oil companies, where they check gauges and perform routine maintenance. To maintain proper temperature and pressurization levels, they monitor and control pipelines, compressors, and distribution tanks. The specific responsibilities of a gas plant operator vary industry and company, but most professionals must complete extensive training in order to ensure efficient production and plant employee safety.
Operators are in charge of ensuring that gas plant machinery is operational and that pipeline levels, flow rates, temperature, and pressurization are maintained. They usually work in control rooms, where they use electronic signals and specialized computer programs to remotely monitor gauges. To keep equipment clean and functioning properly, professionals frequently perform detailed preventive maintenance tasks. Gauges and other pieces of machinery are regularly checked for accuracy.
To diagnose and fix problems, a gas plant operator uses detailed troubleshooting guides and personal experience. When a pipe or piece of equipment fails, the operator will usually shut down the system and make the necessary repairs. Most plants require minor adjustments and repairs on a regular basis, requiring operators to tighten screws and replace worn gears and valves. Larger issues may necessitate the dismantling of an entire tank or the replacement of sections of damaged pipe along a pipeline.
A gas plant operator must have a thorough understanding of physics, mechanical processes, and various types of chemicals in order to perform the job safely and effectively. When a piece of equipment malfunctions, he or she must be able to make quick decisions in order to get it back in working order as soon as possible. Furthermore, when working with volatile, flammable fluids, an operator must be fully aware of the risks involved.
Due to the dangerous nature of the job and the amount of responsibility involved, a person who wants to become a gas plant operator is usually required to complete technical training programs and pass extensive licensing exams. Certification courses in stationary engineering and hazardous materials management are available at many community colleges, universities, and technical schools. Apprenticeships provide formal, hands-on training, in which new workers assist experienced operators in the field for up to a year. New gas plant operators must pass licensing exams that test their knowledge of safety and legal issues, terminology, and basic procedures in most countries and states.