PU Outside Operator

This role is vital in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of machinery and equipment within the construction or refining site. This hands-on position involves process monitoring, troubleshooting, equipment inspection, and adherence to strict safety and environmental standards. Working closely with team members and supervisors, the Outside Operator supports continuous operations and contributes to the success of the project by maintaining high-quality output and minimizing downtime.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor process equipment, including pumps, compressors, distillation columns, and boilers.
• Take product samples, climb tanks and towers, and manage equipment across various parts of the site.
• Ability to learn and apply laboratory testing procedures and interpret sample results to identify process abnormalities.
• Adjust temperature, pressure, and flow to optimize operational efficiency and output.
• Conduct pre-operation inspections and perform minor repairs and maintenance as needed.
• Follow and enforce safety protocols, participate in safety drills, and respond effectively to emergencies.
• Communicate routinely with the control room to report field conditions, relay alarms, or abnormal situations, and carry out instructions during startups, shutdowns, and process upsets.
• Maintain accurate logs and documentation
• Ensure environmental compliance by handling waste and materials according to regulations.
• Demonstrates strong situational awareness and adheres to all safe‑work practices.
• Maintains reliability, punctuality, and accountability in a shift‑based team environment.
• Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice as business needs dictate.
• Participate in the Emergency Response Team for at least 2 years.

Minimum Qualifications and Requirements

• Process Tech certificate/associate degree or process experience operating and monitoring industrial equipment such as pumps, compressors, distillation columns, boilers, and other refining machinery.
• Proven ability to troubleshoot equipment and process issues, perform routine maintenance (including lubrication, inspections, and minor repairs), and take corrective actions to ensure efficient and reliable operations.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Proven experience operating refining-related equipment.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work in varying weather conditions (hot, cold, rain).
• Ability to work rotating shifts (days/nights), weekends, holidays, and overtime as operational needs arise.
• Ability to climb ladders, work at heights, walk long distances, and enter confined spaces with proper training and PPE.
• Must comply with all OSHA regulations, refinery safety rules, PSM standards, and environmental regulations (EPA/TCEQ).
• Must wear required PPE including FR clothing, hard hat, safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, and additional equipment as needed.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
• Must pass site-specific safety training, medical evaluations, and fit-for-duty assessments.
• Employment is contingent upon passing pre‑employment drug/alcohol screening and background checks; random testing may be required per company policy.

Preferred Qualifications

• Certification in heavy equipment or refinery operations.
• Background in construction, oil & gas, or industrial settings.
• Familiarity with emergency response procedures and regulatory standards.

Key Skills

• Proficiency in operating heavy equipment and monitoring technical processes.
• Strong attention to detail in identifying equipment or safety issues.
• Effective communication and teamwork across shifts and departments.
• Problem-solving skills in high-pressure or fast-changing situations.
• Commitment to maintaining a safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible workplace.

Career Progression

This position offers a defined advancement path into a Board Operator role for individuals who demonstrate strong technical knowledge, safety performance, communication skills, and consistent operational excellence. Successful Outside Operators may be trained to run control board panels, respond to process upsets from the control room, and oversee unit operations at a higher level.

Equal Employment Opportunity
 TIRCO is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any protected category.

ADA Accommodation
 Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.