Operator Qualifications Advisor

Job Summary

This position is based in Western Midstream’s The Woodlands, TX office. As part of the HSSE US Onshore DOT Team, this position serves as the Operator Qualification (OQ) Program owner. The role ensures compliance with U.S. Department of Transportation PHMSA regulations (49 CFR Parts 192 & 195), oversees Western Midstream’s OQ Program, supports broader DOT compliance initiatives including Operations & Maintenance Manuals, and partners with the Drug & Alcohol Program Administrator in a supporting capacity.

Qualifications

- Knowledge of PHMSA 49 CFR Parts 192 & 195 regulations, especially Operator Qualification requirements

- Experience administering Operator Qualification (OQ) Programs across multiple operating regions, including oversight of both internal employee and external contractor qualifications

- Familiarity with PHMSA Drug and Alcohol Program requirements is preferred

- Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills to effectively collaborate with diverse internal and external groups, including, operations teams, contractors, vendors, and regulatory agencies

- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, demonstrating strong analytical, time management, and organizational skills with attention to detail in maintaining compliance recordkeeping

- Ability to work independently and collaboratively across multiple departments

- Proficient in Microsoft Office

- Valid US Driver’s License

Responsibilities

- Develop, implement, and continuously enhance the Operator Qualification Program, including associated procedures and workflows for employees and contractors, in accordance with 49 CFR Part 192 Subpart N and Part 195 Subpart G, to drive program effectiveness and continuous improvement

- Administer the Operator Qualification Program to assign covered tasks, manage users, and generate compliance reports including key performance indicators, while proactively identifying opportunities to improve efficiency and ensuring alignment with PHMSA regulations

- Serves as the primary point of contact for internal teams, contractors, external auditors, and regulatory agencies on all Operator Qualification related matters

- Monitor and interpret PHMSA regulatory updates related to Operator Qualifications, implement necessary program changes, and communicate revisions to affected personnel

- Collaborate with Operations and Maintenance teams to ensure Operator Qualifications training aligns with procedural requirements, supporting regulatory compliance, program consistency, and field readiness

- Incorporate Operations and Maintenance procedure training into the Operator Qualification Program as an integral part of the qualification process to ensure personnel are properly trained and qualified to perform covered tasks

- Provide timely compliance updates and performance reports, including monitoring and communicating key performance indicators (KPIs) to management, regional teams, and executive leadership to support data-driven decision-making and drive efficiencies

- Lead internal and external audits by preparing documentation, coordinating audit team efforts, and assisting with responses to regulatory findings, while ensuring all Operator Qualification records remain accurate, up to date, and audit-ready

- Collaborate with Human Resources to ensure timely onboarding and offboarding of personnel, maintaining accurate up-to-date qualification records

- Collaborate with the Drug & Alcohol Program administrator to support audit preparedness, assist with regulatory interactions, ensure compliance with DOT testing program requirements, training

- Support the DOT Compliance Team in developing, implementing, and maintaining compliance programs by providing operational and regulatory assistance to ensure ongoing compliance – includes O&M, Integrity Management, Operator Qualification, Drug & Alcohol, Control Room Management

- Engage with industry groups to contribute insights and feedback on surveys, ensuring alignment with organizational and industry goals

Education / Experience

- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Environmental Science, Safety Management, or related technical discipline strongly preferred

- 5+ years of xperience in the pipeline, utility, or midstream industries under 49 CFR Parts 192 and 195

- In-depth knowledge of ASME B31Q – 2018 Pipeline Personnel Qualification standard

- Demonstrated audit or inspection experience with PHMSA and/or state pipeline safety programs in Texas, New Mexico, Colorado, Utah, and/or Wyoming

Certifications / Licenses

None

Travel

Up to 25%

Work Schedule

This position follows a hybrid schedule working in office Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and working remote Wednesday and Friday. Monday-Thursday are 9 hours and Fridays are 4 hours.