Job Specification Details

Technical, analytical, consultative, and inspection and investigative work involving natural gas and liquid propane gas facilities for the Department of Public Service. Enforcement of federal and State rules and regulations relative to pipeline safety and underground damage prevention. Duties involve safety compliance inspections, emergency response, and evaluation of gas programs and issues. Work is performed under the supervision of the Director of Engineering, who serves as the Program Manager for the Department’s Pipeline Safety Program.

Inspects all jurisdictional gas facilities in the state on a regular basis to assure compliance with federal and State rules and regulations relating to pipeline safety. Reviews procedures, records, pipeline materials and design, construction practices, qualifications of personnel, and operations and maintenance practices. Responds to gas-related emergencies and investigates gas-related accidents for cause and prevention. Investigates consumer complaints regarding gas utility services or lack of service. Interface with federal agencies. Prepare supporting material and justification for grants and budget requests. Serves as subject matter expert and advises the Public Service Department and Public Utility Commission on gas-related matters. May advise other departments and agencies on gas related incidents. Testifies before the Public Utility Commission. Performs related duties as required.

Duties are performed in standard office setting and in the field.  Field conditions include walking in off-road conditions such as pipeline rights-of-way and construction sites.  Travel to inspection sites is required, for which a State vehicle will be provided. There is limited possibility of exposure to toxic waste, explosion or fire. May be required to work outside of normal duty hours, be available to respond to incidents, and be on standby 24/7.

Considerable knowledge of safety standards and procedures applicable to natural and propane gas (such as 49 CFR Part 192, and NFPA 58).

Considerable knowledge of gas pipeline facilities, and their construction, operations, and maintenance practices.

Ability to complete inspections and inspection forms thoroughly, efficiently, and by established deadlines.  Ability to clearly communicate inspection results to the gas operator, Program Manager, and other Department personnel.

Ability to read and accurately interpret maps, blueprints and technical specifications and make recommendations concerning their adequacy, feasibility and compliance with approved safety standards.

Must be able to testify clearly and concisely before the Public Utility Commission and Legislative committees.

Ability to prepare and present technical reports clearly and concisely, orally and in writing.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Strong computer skills. Valid driver's license. Well-organized, and a demonstrated ability to investigate problems and identify root causes.

Ability to interpret legislation and apply published rules and regulations to the workplace.

Bachelor’s degree in engineering, chemistry, physics, or another closely related field
OR
Four (4) years or more of experience in engineering; gas utility regulation; or in the design, construction, maintenance or repair of gas transmission or distribution facilities

Bachelor’s degree in engineering, chemistry, physics, or another closely related field

Six years at or above a technical level in engineering; gas utility regulation; or in the design, construction, maintenance or repair of gas transmission or distribution facilities

Completion of the U.S. DOT Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration

(PHMSA) Training and Qualifications Division (T&Q) Inspector Training Program

If not already completed, the hired candidate must complete the U.S. DOT Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) Training and Qualifications Division (T&Q) Inspector Training Program. This will require frequent travel to Oklahoma City for week-long training courses over the first few years of employment.