Valve Technician

Job Title: Valve Technician

Job Summary:

We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Valve Technician to join our team. In this leadership role, you will be responsible for managing the maintenance, installation, testing, and troubleshooting of valve systems in complex industrial and commercial applications. You will lead a team of technicians, ensure the smooth operation of valve systems, and support engineering teams in identifying and resolving complex technical issues. As a senior technician, you will also mentor junior staff, contribute to continuous improvement initiatives, and play a key role in optimizing valve performance across a variety of industries.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Valve Maintenance and Troubleshooting:
• Oversee and perform the maintenance, repair, and testing of a wide variety of valves, ensuring they meet performance, safety, and regulatory standards.
• Lead troubleshooting efforts for valve-related issues, such as leaks, performance failures, and mechanical issues. Provide expert solutions and ensure rapid resolution.
• Direct the disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of valves to ensure correct functioning, proper seals, and tightness.
2. Testing and Validation:
• Lead and conduct comprehensive valve testing, including pressure tests, flow tests, and leak tests, ensuring valves perform optimally under specified conditions.
• Provide detailed analysis and reports on test results, identifying areas for improvement and ensuring compliance with industry standards such as API, ANSI, and ASME.
• Coordinate the calibration and maintenance of testing equipment, ensuring that all tests are executed accurately and in line with safety protocols.
3. Installation and Commissioning:
• Supervise and assist in the installation of new valve systems, ensuring proper alignment, installation, and integration with other systems (e.g., pipelines, reactors, and pressure vessels).
• Oversee the commissioning of valves, ensuring that all systems meet operational requirements and regulatory standards before being fully operational.
• Ensure valve installations are performed according to all engineering specifications and guidelines, and address any issues that arise during installation.
4. Leadership and Mentorship:
• Lead and supervise a team of junior and mid-level valve technicians, providing technical guidance and support as needed.
• Mentor and train technicians, helping them develop technical skills, safety practices, and problem-solving techniques.
• Ensure all team members follow safety protocols, quality assurance procedures, and maintenance schedules.
5. Collaboration with Engineering Teams:
• Collaborate with engineering teams to ensure that valves are integrated correctly into new systems or designs.
• Provide expert feedback on valve performance and provide recommendations for improving designs or addressing recurring issues in systems.
• Work with project managers to plan and coordinate valve maintenance schedules and ensure minimal disruption to operations.
6. Continuous Improvement and Process Optimization:
• Identify opportunities to improve valve maintenance processes, efficiency, and system performance. Implement best practices in valve maintenance to improve reliability and reduce downtime.
• Stay updated on the latest valve technologies, materials, and industry trends, applying this knowledge to enhance maintenance practices.
• Contribute to ongoing process optimization efforts to increase system performance, reduce costs, and improve overall maintenance efficiency.
7. Documentation and Reporting:
• Prepare detailed reports on valve inspections, maintenance, testing, and repairs, ensuring accurate documentation for internal and regulatory purposes.
• Maintain records of valve system performance, issues encountered, and corrective actions taken, and update maintenance logs regularly.
• Generate and review maintenance schedules and ensure that all work is completed within the specified time frame and to the required quality standards.
8. Safety and Compliance:
• Ensure all valve maintenance activities comply with relevant industry standards and regulations (e.g., API, ASME, ISO, OSHA).
• Conduct safety audits, risk assessments, and training to ensure a safe working environment for all team members and staff involved in valve operations.
• Lead efforts to ensure safety procedures are adhered to during all valve maintenance, installation, and testing activities.

Key Focus Areas:

Field Instrumentation: Assist in maintaining and calibrating field devices for accurate process control.

Troubleshooting: Learn basic fault diagnosis and support the resolution of issues in instrumentation systems.

Safety Compliance: Follow safety protocols and participate in training programs to ensure workplace safety.

Skill Development: Gain technical knowledge and experience in oil and gas field operations.

Qualifications and Skills:

1. Educational Requirements:
• High school diploma or equivalent (Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Maintenance, or related field is preferred).
• 5-8 years of experience in valve maintenance, installation, and troubleshooting within industrial environments.
2. Technical Skills:
• Extensive experience with a wide range of valves and valve systems, including globe valves, ball valves, gate valves, check valves, and control valves.
• Proficiency in valve testing and troubleshooting techniques, including pressure testing, leak detection, and performance evaluation.
• Strong mechanical aptitude with hands-on experience in valve repairs, installations, and maintenance.
• Familiarity with CAD software for valve design and valve system integration is a plus.
• Understanding of valve materials, sealing technologies, and corrosion resistance principles.
3. Soft Skills:
• Excellent leadership and team management skills, with the ability to guide, motivate, and mentor junior and mid-level technicians.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to quickly identify and resolve technical issues related to valve systems.
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, for preparing reports, presenting findings, and collaborating with engineering teams.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously.
4. Certifications (Preferred):
• Valve maintenance and repair certification (e.g., API, ASME, or similar certifications).
• Safety certifications such as OSHA 30 or equivalent.
• Any relevant certification in industrial maintenance, quality assurance, or process systems is beneficial.