Gas Controller (Natural Gas)

Position Description

Primary purpose:

Operates natural gas pipeline systems from a central control room using SCADA and other digital control systems. Monitors pressures, flows, temperatures, system balance, and alarms; initiates remote operation of valves and compressors; coordinates with field crews and schedulers; and manages abnormal operating conditions in accordance with company procedures and federal/state regulations. Work is performed in a highly structured, procedure-driven, safety-critical environment requiring sustained attention and rapid decision-making.

Position Requirements

Position Requirements:

• Entry-level position responsible for performing the duties of a Gas Controller on the Tennessee Gas Pipeline system.
• Position is based in Houston and operates on rotating 12‑hour shifts utilizing the modified DuPont shift schedule.
• Responsible for safe, dependable, and efficient pipeline operations.
• Monitor real‑time pipeline conditions across multiple SCADA screens; acknowledge and respond to alarms within required time limits.
• Quickly and safely respond to alarms and abnormal operating conditions such as pressure drops, equipment failures, or possible leaks.
• Ensure gas is moved safely and reliably to meet customer and market demand.
• Start and stop compressors; open and close valves to change gas flow routes, isolate pipeline sections, and manage overall system balance.
• Communicate clearly and promptly with field technicians, controllers, schedulers, third parties, and customers.
• Ensure regulatory compliance with PHMSA (Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration) requirements.
• Provide detailed shift handovers; participate in drills, training, and operator qualification programs.
• Adhere to fatigue risk management requirements.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:

• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities.
• Ability to remain calm and effective during emergencies.
• Works well in a team environment.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficient computer skills and ability to learn technical systems.
• Commitment to providing excellent customer service.
• Willingness to study and work outside normal hours for continued development.
• Demonstrates follow‑up, follow‑through, and accountability.

Working Conditions:

• 24/7 rotating shift work; includes nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Typical shift length: 12 hours 
• Overtime and extended shifts may be required during emergencies or staffing constraints.
• Structured breaks are provided but may be interrupted by alarms or abnormal operating conditions.
• On-call duty or short-notice call-ins possible during system upsets or extreme weather.

Safety, Regulatory & Compliance:

• Safety-Sensitive (DOT/PHMSA; 49 CFR Parts 192/195 & Control Room Management 49 CFR 192.631/195.446).
• Subject to drug & alcohol testing per DOT/PHMSA.
• Must meet operator qualification and control room management training and fatigue mitigation rules.
• Must follow all emergency response procedures and participate in periodic drills.
• Fit for Duty required at start of each shift (no impairment from medications or conditions affecting alertness/judgment/coordination/vision/hearing).

Minimum Qualifications:

• Ability to perform essential functions listed above, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Adequate visual acuity (including color discrimination) for screen-based alarm/status recognition.
• Adequate hearing for alarms and clear radio/phone communication.
• Ability to work 12-hour rotating shifts, including nights and overtime, without undue safety risk.
• Ability to maintain attention, judgment, and psychomotor performance during sustained operations.

Preferred Qualifications:

• A bachelor’s degree in Mathematics, Computer Science, or Engineering is a plus (not required).

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER STATEMENT: We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.