The largest job family within the upstream energy industry, Operator jobs typically involve the sThe largest job family within the upstream energy industry, Operator jobs typically involve the specialised operation of control systems and equipment related to plant and facilities, heavy equipment, rigs, wells and pipelines. Operators can work in both the upstream or downstream industry's. Safety-sensitive positions have stringent requirements related to being drug and alcohol free. A willingness to work in remote locations and/or to be relocated is often required. Shift work is common. Common work functions usually include assembly and disassembly of equipment, operating, monitoring, assessing readings, troubleshooting and reacting to variable conditions. EducationTo work in this area, individuals usually require a minimum of 4 years of secondary education; and A minimum total of 32 credits, of which;
Equivalent NQF Unit StandardsThis is usually combined with on-the-job training and selected technical course work. A post-secondary education in engineering technology (e.g. power, chemical, petroleum or mechanical) can help you advance your career. A strong mechanical aptitude, combined with an interest in working with things tangible versus theoretical, is crucial for many Operator roles. Career PathsSome companies offer opportunities for summer help or helpers/labourers to advance into Operator positions based on their job experience, demonstrated performance, interest and potential. Advancement opportunities are possible within a particular classification by being moved or promoted through several steps, each with progressively more responsibility and increased pay. With experience and extensive formal on-the-job company training, individuals may move laterally within their company or vertically to a supervisory or managerial position. Routine WorkControl centre operators are primarily office-based occupations. Most other sectors of this job family require shift or rotational work (two weeks on and one week off-site) outdoors at production sites, in sometimes remote locations. Opportunities for paid overtime can be very rewarding. Classification of Operator occupations:
Process Operators CHEMICAL, GAS, PETROLEUM AND POWER GENERATION PLANT OPERATORS control the operation of chemical production equipment, pump gas and oil from wellheads, refine and process petroleum products, and operate boilers, turbogenerators and associated plant to generate electrical power. Tasks can include:
Skills required: An operator generally needs to have a level 4 qualification to be fully productive in their role. Many companies train operators in-house via the Industry training organisation Registration or licensing may be required. Education / Qualification Options: Pre-entry Process Operations National Certificate in Energy and chemical plant – Western Institute of Technology Taranaki Industry Training Organisation (on the job training after employment) MITO |