Operator Qualifications Specialist

Operator Qualifications Specialist

Forge ahead with WSB. WSB was founded on the understanding that culture drives results, and we've dedicated ourselves to the value of strong relationships, collaboration, and forward-thinking ideas. We've inspired each other to discover thoughtful and creative solutions that look beyond the needs of today to the opportunities of tomorrow. We invite you to forge ahead with us.

The Operator Qualification Specialist is responsible for developing, implementing, administering, and maintaining the companys Operator Qualification (OQ) program to ensure compliance with federal regulations (such as PHMSA/DOT 49 CFR Part 192 Subpart N and Part 195 Subpart G) and state requirements. This role focuses on verifying that employees, contractors, and other personnel performing covered tasks on pipeline facilities or related operations are properly trained, evaluated, and qualified to perform their duties safely and effectively.

The OQ Specialist plays a critical role in promoting public and employee safety, reducing human error risks, and ensuring audit-ready compliance in industries such as natural gas, hazardous liquids pipelines, utilities, or energy operations.

What you will do:

• Training & Evaluation: Coordinate or deliver training (classroom, online, and hands-on) and conduct or oversee performance evaluations (knowledge tests, practical/field observations, simulations) for covered tasks. This may include areas like leak surveys, pipeline maintenance, plastic fusion, measurement & regulation, and abnormal operating conditions.
• Compliance & Auditing: Ensure all individuals (employees and contractors) performing covered tasks meet qualification standards before work begins. Maintain detailed, audit-ready records of qualifications, training, evaluations, and requalification's. Support internal audits and regulatory inspections (PHMSA, state agencies).
• Record Management: Track qualification expirations, manage requalification schedules, and handle documentation in compliance management systems (e.g., EnergyWorldnet, EnergyU, Veriforce, or internal platforms).
• Gap Analysis & Remediation: Identify skill gaps or deficiencies through evaluations, observations, or incident reviews. Recommend or provide remedial training and monitor effectiveness.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Work closely with operations, field supervisors, training department, contractors, and management to communicate requirements, resolve issues, and implement process improvements.
• Regulatory Monitoring: Stay current with changes in federal, state, and industry standards (e.g., ASME B31Q) and update the OQ program accordingly. Participate in post-incident reviews and suspension/revocation processes when qualifications are in question.
• Reporting & Continuous Improvement: Generate reports on program status, qualification compliance rates, and trends. Contribute to the development of new evaluation tools, processes, or materials.

What you will bring:

Education:

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Associates or Bachelors degree in a related field (e.g., Engineering, Occupational Safety, Technical Training, or Energy) preferred.

Experience:

• 35+ years of experience in pipeline operations, gas utilities, maintenance, or a related technical field.
• Direct experience with OQ programs, training, or evaluations strongly preferred.
• Prior experience as an evaluator, trainer, or in a compliance/safety role is a plus.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• In-depth knowledge of DOT/PHMSA Operator Qualification regulations and pipeline safety standards.
• Strong understanding of covered tasks and evaluation methods (knowledge, skills, and ability to recognize abnormal conditions).
• Excellent communication, coaching, and interpersonal skills.
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational and record-keeping abilities.
• Proficiency with learning management systems, Microsoft Office, and compliance software.
• Ability to work independently and handle multiple priorities.
• Physical capability for field work (e.g., lifting, outdoor environments) where applicable.

Certifications (preferred or required depending on company):

• Ability to obtain Relevant industry certifications (e.g., from Veriforce, Energy Worldnet/MEA, NCCER).
• Combination of office and field environments.
• This position will be performed remotely using Teams and other communication methods.
• Must comply with company safety policies, drug/alcohol testing, and background checks.

This role is essential for maintaining operational integrity and regulatory compliance. The ideal candidate is safety-focused, technically proficient, and passionate about workforce development.

Who We Are:

WSB is a design and consulting firm specializing in Transportation, Community Planning, Environmental, Energy, Municipal, and Construction services. We provide solutions for the places, spaces and systems that support our lives. We offer services in more than 50 complementary areas across the nation.

Full-time WSB employees qualify for competitive compensation and benefits package, including medical insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, life insurance, company paid short-and long-term disability, 401K with match, paid time off, paid holidays, tuition reimbursement, and opportunities for professional growth and development. Part-time employees can participate in the 401K plan and applicable earned paid leave.

As an EEO/Affirmative Action Employer, all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran or disability status.

WSB strives to ensure that its careers website is accessible to all. If you need assistance completing your online application, please email [email protected].

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, WSB is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans. If you need a reasonable accommodation to assist with your job search or application for employment, please e-mail us at [email protected]. In your e-mail, please include a description of the specific accommodation you are requesting as well as the job title and requisition number of the position for which you are applying.

Notice to Third Party Agencies: WSB does not accept unsolicited resumes from third party recruiting firms. Absent a signed Service Agreement by WSB, we reserve the right to pursue and hire any unsolicited candidates without financial obligation to recruiters or agencies.

Equal employment opportunity, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.

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