About the position
The Pipeline Safety Department, part of the Oversight and Safety Division of the Railroad Commission of Texas, is responsible for the oversight of approximately 224,067 miles of intra-state pipeline. The department is seeking field inspectors to conduct technical fieldwork related to pipeline safety operations in Region 2. This role involves performing pipeline safety evaluations and conducting incident and accident investigations to ensure compliance with applicable natural gas and hazardous liquids pipeline safety rules and regulations, specifically those outlined in the 49 Code of Federal Regulations, Parts 192 and 195, as well as the 16 Texas Administrative Code, Chapters 8 and 18. Field inspectors will have the opportunity to learn about Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) standards through training at out-of-state facilities and will collaborate with industry professionals to uphold safe operation standards. Inspectors will conduct site visits and provide current information on PHMSA and Railroad Commission regulations to ensure that pipeline operations meet safety requirements. The position operates under the general supervision of the Regional Manager and the PHMSA Program Director. The job entails extensive overnight travel, with expectations of 50% or more travel time. Daily and overnight travel will include completing inspections, conducting investigations, and attending mandatory training sessions both in-state and out-of-state. Inspectors are required to perform timely inspections and consistently report their findings. Flexibility in scheduling is necessary, as inspectors must be on call to respond to emergency situations and conduct incident investigations. The role also includes completing and submitting various reports, including weekly inspection reports, incident reports, and administrative reports, all of which must be composed and updated on a state-issued laptop within prescribed timelines. Additionally, operating a state-issued vehicle for extensive driving and fieldwork is a critical duty of this position.
Responsibilities
- Conduct pipeline safety evaluations and incident investigations.
- Determine compliance of pipeline operators with safety rules and regulations.
- Perform timely inspections and report findings consistently.
- Complete and submit weekly inspection and incident reports.
- Compose and update technical reports on assigned laptop within prescribed timelines.
- Operate a state-issued vehicle for extensive driving and fieldwork.
- Respond to emergency situations and conduct incident investigations as needed.
Requirements
- Graduation from a standard senior high school or G.E.D.
- Four years of relevant professional work experience.
- A valid Texas Drivers License.
- Ability to work Monday-Friday, 8:00AM to 5:00PM with occasional flexible hours.
Nice-to-haves
- BA/BS or MA/MS degree from an accredited four-year college or university in Engineering or a related field.
- Associate degree or technical certification in Engineering/Petroleum/Corrosion Technology plus two years of relevant work experience.
Benefits
- Generous paid time off including vacation, sick time, and at least 12 paid holidays per year.
- Telework options for eligible positions.
- Flexible work schedules.
- Retirement pension with a 150% agency match.
- 401(k), 457(b) and Roth options.
- Health premiums 100% paid for full-time employees.
- Tuition Reimbursement.
- Wellness and Exercise Leave.
- Career development programs and opportunities for advancement.
