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Oil Gas Utility Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Centuri Group, Inc.

Gas Utility Operator

Hampton, VA · On-site

Valid Driver's License * 1+ year experience safely operating equipment in close proximity to workers and underground utilities What You'll Get * Join the Largest Natural Gas Distribution Contractor ...

U.S. Silica Company

Plant Utility Operator

Millen, GA · On-site

The Plant Utility Operator performs complex maintenance assistance, material handling, and ... for the oil & gas sector, we supply high-quality silica, diatomaceous earth, clay, and other ...

Celanese Corporation

Utility Operator

Chester, VA · On-site

Celanese is seeking a Utility Operator to join its team in Hopewell, Virginia. The individual in ... Lights gas or oil fed burners on boilers and dowtherm boiler. * Starts oil pumps to feed oil into ...

Celanese

Utility Operator

Chester, VA · On-site

Celanese is seeking a Utility Operator to join its team in Hopewell, Virginia. The individual in ... Lights gas or oil fed burners on boilers and dowtherm boiler. * Starts oil pumps to feed oil into ...

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Oil Gas Utility Operator information

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$13

$26

$37

How much do oil gas utility operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for oil gas utility operator in the United States is $26.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.91 and $30.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an oil gas utility operator do?

An Oil Gas Utility Operator is responsible for monitoring and controlling the equipment and systems that process and distribute oil and gas. They ensure safe and efficient operations by regularly checking gauges, meters, and other instruments, making adjustments as necessary. Operators also perform routine maintenance, troubleshoot issues, and follow strict safety protocols to prevent accidents and environmental hazards. Their role is essential to the smooth functioning of oil and gas facilities.

What are some common challenges oil gas utility operators face during their shifts?

Oil Gas Utility Operators often work in environments where safety is a top priority due to the presence of hazardous materials and complex machinery. Common challenges include maintaining equipment reliability under varying operational conditions, troubleshooting unexpected process upsets, and effectively coordinating with maintenance and engineering teams to minimize downtime. Additionally, operators must remain vigilant about regulatory compliance and documentation, which requires strong attention to detail and adaptability to shift work schedules. Being proactive in communication and problem-solving is key to succeeding in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an oil gas utility operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Oil Gas Utility Operator, you need a strong understanding of mechanical systems, safety procedures, and operational protocols, usually supported by a high school diploma or technical certification in process technology. Familiarity with SCADA systems, industrial control software, and safety certifications like HAZWOPER or OSHA are commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills are vital to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable operation of critical energy infrastructure.

What is the difference between Oil Gas Utility Operator vs Oil Gas Field Technician?

AspectOil Gas Utility OperatorOil Gas Field Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certifications, technical trainingHigh school diploma, technical certifications, safety training
Work EnvironmentUtilities plants, pipelines, control roomsOil fields, drilling sites, production facilities
Employer & Industry UsageUtility companies, energy providersOil & gas exploration and production companies

Oil Gas Utility Operators focus on maintaining and operating utility systems like pipelines and control rooms, often working in utility plants. Oil Gas Field Technicians are involved in on-site fieldwork such as equipment maintenance and troubleshooting at drilling and production sites. Both roles require safety certifications and technical skills but differ mainly in work environment and specific job functions.

How to become an oil gas utility operator?

To become an oil and gas utility operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training or technical education in energy operations or process technology. Relevant skills include understanding safety protocols, equipment operation, and maintenance, often supported by certifications such as OSHA safety training. Gaining experience through entry-level positions or apprenticeships is common before advancing to more complex roles.

What are popular job titles related to Oil Gas Utility Operator jobs?

For Oil Gas Utility Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Oil Gas Utility Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,276 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Gas Utility Operator

Hampton, VA

Centuri Construction Group
See more jobs at Centuri Construction Groupexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Safely operate heavy equipment such as skid steers, backhoe, trencher, paver, dozer, milling saw, road grater, hydro-excavator, track hoe and more.

  • Load and unload equipment and materials.

  • Perform regular maintenance and cleaning on assigned vehicles and equipment.

Job description

Who We Are

At NPL, part of The Centuri Organization, our employees are part of an established team working to support America's natural gas utility and energy infrastructure. Working at NPL means you are joining a company with over 50 years of experience, long-standing customer relationships, and one that is deeply integrated into our host communities. Come grow your career with us and be a part of something bigger.

As an experienced Equipment Operator, after paid training, you will put your skills to work - safety operating equipment to move earth, tools and materials to and from job sites. Reporting to a seasoned Foreman, you will join a crew to get the job done right. We believe in the power of teamwork, and all crew members are expected to assist with general labor as needed.

We welcome applicants from the surrounding Hampton Roads area, including:
Newport News, Poquoson, Yorktown/York County, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, and Suffolk.

What You'll Do
  • Safely operate heavy equipment such as: skid steers, backhoe, trencher, paver, dozer, milling saw, road grater, hydro-excavator, track hoe and more
  • Load and unload equipment and materials
  • Maintain daily pre-shift vehicle and equipment inspections
  • Perform regular maintenance and cleaning on assigned vehicles and equipment
  • Maintain all industry-required Operator Qualifications
  • Perform other tasks as requested by leadership 
What You'll Have
  • High School diploma or equivalent
  • Valid Driver's License
  • 1+ year experience safely operating equipment in close proximity to workers and underground utilities
What You'll Get
  • Join the Largest Natural Gas Distribution Contractor in the United States
  • Weekly Payroll
  • Paid, on-the-job training: natural gas distribution, utility excavation, safety 
  • Employee Assistance program benefit
  • Health Insurance Plan benefit
  • Retirement Plan benefit
Work Environment
  • Work sites are outdoors in potentially extreme weather conditions
  • All worksite safety instructions are written and spoken in English; must be fluent in English
  • Work includes prolonged and repeated: lifting (including overhead, up to 50lbs); standing; climbing; kneeling; reaching and feeling; crouching and crawling
  • Work is performed within the "red zone" of heavy equipment
  • Working safely requires quick/accurate hand-eye coordination and the ability to work in a constant state of alertness and safe manner
Legal Stuff
  • Pass pre-employment, random, post-accident, and reasonable suspicion drug screens
  • Provide valid US work authorization documents for E-Verify
  • Satisfactory results of pre-employment background check results
  • Valid driver's license with clean driving record
  • Pre-employment medical fit-for-duty test; hold/obtain DOT medical card
  • Join and maintain Union membership
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Commitment

This job description is subject to change at any time. It reflects management's assignment of essential functions, and does not exclude or restrict the tasks that may be assigned. Centuri and its subsidiary companies will provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants without regard to an applicant's race, color, religion, sex, gender, genetic information, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other status protected by federal, state or local law.  Centuri will provide reasonable accommodations to allow an applicant to participate in the hiring process (e.g., accommodations for a test or job interview) if so requested.

Centuri is a Department of Transportation regulated employer. Certain safety-sensitive positions are covered under the DOT Drug and Alcohol Testing Regulations, 49 CFR Part 40. It is important to note that marijuana remains a drug listed in Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act. It remains unacceptable for any safety-sensitive employee subject to drug testing under the company's Drug Free Workplace Policy to use or test positive for marijuana.

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