What are you going to do

Brunel is recruiting Pipeline Operators to work in Carlsbad, NM for initially 1 year contract with our major ooil and gas client.
The Pipeline Operator is responsible for the safe, compliant, and efficient operation of liquid and gas pipeline systems and associated facilities.
This role requires a fully qualified operator with strong pipeline operations experience, a deep understanding of operational hazards, and hands-on involvement in field activities.
The ideal candidate has experience with commissioning and decommissioning work, can read maps to navigate and locate buried pipelines, and is capable of leading less experienced crews while also performing hands-on tasks when needed.
Responsibilities and tasks:
  • Candidates must understand the hazards of pipeline operations, particularly in high-pressure gas and liquid systems.
  • Experience around commissioning and decommissioning activities is critical.
  • The operator must be comfortable working in the field, navigating by maps and alignment sheets, and guiding crews through safe and effective task execution.
  • Familiarity with operational programs and systems is expected, though no specific certifications are required.
  • Operate, monitor, and maintain liquid and gas pipelines, stations, and related equipment to ensure safe and reliable transportation.
  • Perform start-up, shutdown, commissioning, decommissioning, isolation, purging, and line fill, pack, and unpack activities.
  • Execute pigging operations including utility, batching, cleaning, and in-line inspection runs, with responsibility for pre- and post-run checks, pressure control, and documentation.
  • Monitor flows, pressures, volumes, and quality using SCADA systems and field instrumentation, identify abnormal operating conditions, and optimize system performance.
  • Comply with DOT PHMSA pipeline regulations for gas and liquids, including 49 CFR 192 and 195.
  • Complete accurate and timely DOT-required documentation related to inspections, maintenance, patrols, audits, and incidents or near-misses.
  • Perform only tasks for which current Operator Qualifications are held and maintain active qualifications.
  • Support internal and external audits and inspections by maintaining organized and complete documentation.
  • Follow all company safety policies, Life-Saving Rules, and safe work practices.
  • Participate in job safety analyses, pre-task briefings, drills, and safety meetings.
  • Conduct leak surveys, right-of-way patrols, facility inspections, and equipment checks.
  • Support integrity management activities and identify hazards in the field.
  • Use Stop Work Authority when necessary and escalate safety or operational issues according to established protocols.
  • Read and interpret alignment sheets, P&IDs, one-lines, stationing, contours, and facility drawings to accurately locate, trace, and follow buried pipelines.
  • Identify pipeline routing, depth indications, fittings, valves, right-of-way boundaries, and crossings using maps and alignment sheets.
  • Report mapping discrepancies and support updates to GIS and as-built records in coordination with foremen and GIS teams.
  • Use SCADA interfaces, field instrumentation, and analyzers to monitor performance, analyze trends, understand set points, respond to alarms, and perform basic troubleshooting.
  • Prepare clear reports, spreadsheets, and presentations using Microsoft Office, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams.
  • Communicate effectively with contractors, inspectors, engineers, and control room personnel.
  • Field tools may include line locators, GPS units, pressure and temperature gauges, gas detectors, and calibration equipment.
  • Knowledge of corrosion control basics, measurement or LACT operations, and station equipment such as pumps or compressors is preferred.
  • The operator must understand hazards associated with high-pressure gas and liquid hydrocarbon systems, including stored energy, rapid pressure release, jetting, ignition potential, chemical exposure, and environmental risks.

Essential skills and knowledge 

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements:
  • Work is performed in outdoor and industrial environments with exposure to weather, noise, rotating equipment, and hydrocarbons.
  • The role requires the ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds, climb ladders and stairs, traverse uneven terrain, and perform extended driving on lease roads.
  • Use of required personal protective equipment is mandatory, along with compliance with fit-for-duty and drug and alcohol policies.

Closing: March 27, 2026

Do you have any questions about this vacancy?

Vacancy reference: TR-278411

SL

Corporate recruiter

Stephanie Lopes

+55 21 3328 2828

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