Job Title: Field Instrumentation Technician (Oil and Gas)
Job Summary:
The Senior Field Instrumentation Technician is responsible for leading the maintenance, optimization, and troubleshooting of complex instrumentation systems in oil and gas operations. This role involves overseeing advanced calibration tasks, managing system upgrades, and ensuring the seamless integration of field devices with SCADA and Distributed Control Systems (DCS). The technician ensures compliance with industry standards, mentors junior staff, and contributes to the strategic improvement of instrumentation systems for operational efficiency and safety.
Key Responsibilities:
Advanced Maintenance and Calibration:
- Lead advanced calibration and maintenance of field instruments, including flow meters, pressure sensors, temperature sensors, and control valves.
- Develop and execute preventive maintenance schedules to ensure minimal downtime and system reliability.
- Analyze instrument performance data to identify trends and implement optimization strategies.
Troubleshooting and Diagnostics:
- Diagnose and resolve critical issues in instrumentation systems using advanced diagnostic tools and techniques.
- Conduct root cause analyses for recurring system issues and develop corrective action plans.
- Collaborate with engineers and vendors to address technical challenges and enhance system performance.
System Installation and Upgrades:
- Oversee the installation, integration, and testing of new instrumentation systems with SCADA/DCS platforms.
- Validate and approve system upgrades to ensure compliance with performance and safety standards.
- Lead retrofitting projects and system enhancements to meet evolving operational requirements.
Safety and Compliance:
- Ensure strict adherence to safety protocols, environmental regulations, and industry standards in all activities.
- Conduct risk assessments and safety audits, and oversee the implementation of risk mitigation measures.
- Validate safety-critical systems, including emergency shutdown devices and alarm systems.
Documentation and Reporting:
- Maintain comprehensive records of calibration data, system configurations, and maintenance activities.
- Prepare detailed technical reports on system performance, issues resolved, and recommendations for improvements.
- Update standard operating procedures (SOPs) and training materials for field instrumentation systems.
Leadership and Mentorship:
- Provide technical leadership to the instrumentation team, ensuring high standards of performance and reliability.
- Mentor junior and mid-level technicians, fostering skill development and knowledge sharing.
- Act as a subject matter expert and resource for addressing complex technical challenges.
Collaboration and Project Support:
- Work closely with operations, engineering, and safety teams to align instrumentation activities with organizational goals.
- Support project planning and execution for instrumentation-related tasks, ensuring timely delivery and quality standards.
- Serve as a liaison between field teams, management, and external stakeholders.
Key Focus Areas:
- System Optimization: Lead advanced calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting to ensure optimal performance.
- Safety Leadership: Drive adherence to safety standards and oversee risk management for instrumentation systems.
- Project Management: Manage system upgrades, retrofits, and new installations.
- Team Development: Mentor and guide team members to improve technical expertise and operational efficiency.
Skills and Knowledge Required:
- Extensive knowledge of instrumentation systems, including advanced calibration, diagnostics, and integration.
- Expertise in SCADA, DCS, and industrial communication protocols (e.g., Modbus, Profibus, HART).
- Advanced troubleshooting skills to resolve complex technical issues in real-time.
- In-depth understanding of safety regulations, environmental compliance, and risk management practices.
- Strong leadership and communication skills for mentoring teams and collaborating with stakeholders.
Educational Qualifications:
- Diploma or Associate’s degree in Instrumentation Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field.
- Advanced certifications in instrumentation, SCADA systems, or process automation are highly desirable.
Experience:
- 7-10 years of experience in field instrumentation maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting, preferably in the oil and gas industry.
- Demonstrated ability to lead complex maintenance tasks and manage multiple priorities effectively.
Tools and Technologies:
- Expertise in diagnostic tools, including loop calibrators, oscilloscopes, and vibration analyzers.
- Proficiency in SCADA platforms such as Siemens WinCC, ABB, Honeywell Experion, or equivalent.
- Familiarity with advanced data analytics tools and predictive maintenance technologies.
Other Requirements:
- Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects and tasks simultaneously.
- Commitment to maintaining high safety, quality, and compliance standards in all activities.
- Willingness to travel to remote field locations and adapt to challenging operational conditions.
- Ability to work effectively under pressure and deliver results in high-stakes environments.