Control Room Specialist

HOUSTON, TX

Objective

This position maintains and administers the alarm management program within the Operations Control Center (OCC). Control Room Specialist is responsible for ensuring the efficient and effective response to all system alarms and maintaining compliance with all federal, state, and company regulations related to gas system operation and safety. 

Primary Responsibilities

  • Define, develop, and maintain the alarm philosophy and associated procedures for the SCADA system.
  • Monitor the overall health and performance of the alarm system to ensure it accurately and reliably reports abnormal operating conditions.
  • Documentation and Rationalization (D&R) of all alarms.
  • Develop and implement strategies to reduce nuisance alarms and improve the overall efficiency of the alarm management system.
  • Review daily SCADA alarm reports to identify trends, recommend updates, and ensure all alarms were handled appropriately.
  • Ensure all gas control and alarm management activities comply with federal regulations, such as those from the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), and other state and local regulations.
  • Assist with the annual review of the Control Room Management (CRM) Plan and make recommendations based on regulatory requirements and industry practices.
  • Develop and update Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) related to alarm response and gas control activities.
  • Provide technical support, troubleshoot and address system issues.
  • Work with SCADA support personnel and other internal and external partners to ensure the continuous operability of control systems.
  • Coordinate with field operations and maintenance teams to respond to system alarms and perform equipment diagnostics and repairs.
  • Act as a liaison between the gas control team and the SCADA support team to manage needs related to HMI screens and system improvements.
  • Special projects and other duties as assigned.

Working Conditions

  • Hybrid work schedule at OCC three days a week – Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. Work schedule is subject to change.
  • Must be able to sit and work at a computer keyboard for extended periods of time.
  • Occasional lifting to 15 pounds.
  • Visual acuity requirements include color, depth perception and field vision with ability to determine the accuracy, neatness, and thoroughness of the work assigned.
  • Flexibility to work overtime as needed.
  • Occasional travel to field offices in the southeast US and offshore as needed.

Education and Qualifications

  • High school diploma required.
  • Associates or other technical degree preferred.
  • Valid driver’s license.
  • Minimum of 5 years’ experience in Control Center environment with SCADA systems.
  • Energy industry experience preferred.
  • Must be familiar with 49 CFR Rule 192.630 and Rule 195.403 and Alarm Management Philosophy for Control Centers.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft application suite.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, organizational, verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to establish priorities, prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and concentrate on detailed information in a fast-paced and demanding work environment.
  • Ability to perform effectively in high-pressure situations while maintaining focus and calmness with a high degree of accuracy.
  • Ability to follow defined procedures.