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Operator Qualification Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Position Summary Provide technical and strategic expertise in the execution of a Gas Compliance and Operator Qualification (OQ) Program. Conducts field and office compliance assessments of company ...

Qualifications: * Valid driver's license and reliable transportation required. * Minimum of 1 year of experience operating heavy equipment in construction or a related field. * Knowledge of pipeline ...

Moto Operator

Valley, NE · On-site

$28.57/hr

Ability to pass an AWS welder operator qualification test for GMAW processes * Knowledge of basic programming and set up of PLC controlled machinery, trouble shooting, and well versed in operators ...

Overview The Compressor Operator is responsible for the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of ... Qualifications * Minimum 2-5 years of experience in gas compression, oil & gas operations, or ...

Certifications such as OSHA 10/30, H2S Awareness, First Aid/CPR, or DOT Operator Qualification (OQ) are a plus. * Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills. * Ability to read P&IDs ...

Qualifications Minimum * High school diploma, or equivalent. * 1 year of experience operating heavy equipment. Preferred * 2 or more years of experience operating heavy equipment. * Operator ...

Compressor Station Operator Our Vision: RigUp is where the best workers power the world's most ... Utilize digital tools and systems for data entry and reporting Skills & Qualifications * Minimum 2 ...

Operator

Stafford, KS · On-site

$15.25 - $20.25/hr

The operator assists in maintenance and/or operation of various types of Company property such as ... Utilize all applicable IT systems * Complete all criteria in Qualifications section above as well ...

Operator

Hesston, KS · On-site

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

The operator assists in maintenance and/or operation of various types of Company property such as ... Utilize all applicable IT systems * Complete all criteria in Qualifications section above as well ...

Pass construction equipment operator qualification testing/observation. Education and Experience: * High School Diploma or equivalent preferred. * Two to three years of verifiable experience ...

Pass construction equipment operator qualification testing/observation. Education and Experience: * High School Diploma or equivalent preferred. * Two to three years of verifiable experience ...

Pass construction equipment operator qualification testing/observation. Education and Experience: * High School Diploma or equivalent preferred. * Two to three years of verifiable experience ...

Must pass construction equipment operator qualification testing/observation. Education and Experience: * High School Diploma or equivalent preferred. * Two to three years of verifiable and relevant ...

Actively participate in the Operator Qualification (OQ) Program. * Ability to be on call 24-7 on a rotation with other coworkers. * Must live within 60 - 65 miles from reporting location to ...

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Operator Qualification information

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How much do operator qualification jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for operator qualification in the United States is $20.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Operator Qualification vs Pipeline Technician?

AspectOperator QualificationPipeline Technician
Required CredentialsCertification programs, written exams, practical assessmentsTechnical training, certifications in pipeline systems, safety standards
Work EnvironmentField sites, plants, industrial facilitiesPipeline construction, maintenance, inspection sites
Employer & Industry UsageOil & gas, energy sectors, utility companiesOil & gas, pipeline companies, construction firms
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding certification requirements, safety standardsJob duties, skills, industry roles

Operator Qualification focuses on certifying individuals to safely operate specific equipment or systems, emphasizing training and assessments. Pipeline Technicians perform hands-on maintenance, installation, and inspection of pipelines. While both roles are essential in the pipeline industry, Operator Qualification ensures personnel are certified to operate equipment, whereas Pipeline Technicians execute the physical work on pipelines.

What is Operator Qualification?

Operator Qualification (OQ) refers to the process and requirements that ensure individuals performing covered tasks on pipeline facilities are properly trained, tested, and qualified to do their jobs safely and in compliance with federal regulations. OQ programs help verify that workers have the necessary knowledge and skills to perform their duties and can recognize and react appropriately to abnormal operating conditions. These qualifications are mandated by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) to enhance pipeline safety and integrity.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Operator Qualification Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Operator Qualification Specialist, you need a comprehensive understanding of pipeline operations, safety regulations, and compliance standards, often supported by relevant industry certifications or training. Familiarity with computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS), regulatory compliance software, and various testing and assessment tools is typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are vital soft skills for success in this role. These abilities ensure that operators are properly qualified, regulatory requirements are met, and operational safety is maintained.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Operator Qualification roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Operator Qualification roles often encounter challenges such as staying updated with evolving regulatory requirements, ensuring consistent training standards across teams, and managing detailed documentation. To address these, it's important to establish regular training sessions, leverage digital platforms for tracking qualifications, and maintain open communication with both operators and compliance teams. Staying proactive about regulatory changes and fostering a culture of continuous learning can help mitigate these challenges and ensure operational safety and compliance.
More about Operator Qualification jobs
What cities are hiring for Operator Qualification jobs? Cities with the most Operator Qualification job openings:
What states have the most Operator Qualification jobs? States with the most job openings for Operator Qualification jobs include:
Infographic showing various Operator Qualification job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,738 per year, or $20.1 per hour.
Operator Qualification Evaluator

Operator Qualification Evaluator

Xcel Energy

Hugo, MN • On-site

$84K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Xcel Energy rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 89 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

19th of 52 rated energy and utility


Job description

Are you looking for an exciting job where you can put your skills and talents to work at a company you can feel proud to be a part of? Do you want a workplace that will challenge you and offer you opportunities to learn and grow? A position at Xcel Energy could be just what you're looking for.

Position Summary
Provide technical and strategic expertise in the execution of a Gas Compliance and Operator Qualification (OQ) Program. Conducts field and office compliance assessments of company and contractor personnel to ensure adherence to all codes and standards. Administer performance evaluations and assessments designed to determine the Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs). to perform covered tasks on distribution and transmission gas pipelines as defined by the OQ Plan. partner with multi-disciplinary groups to develop processes and procedures to fulfill regulatory requirements related to assuring gas compliance requirements and company policy. Responsible for status reporting and identifying training requirements based on assessment results. Monitor key reports and metrics to ensure compliance with policy and the OQ Plan.
Essential Responsibilities

  • Conducts field and office compliance assessments of company and contractor personnel to ensure adherence to all PHMSA, D.O.T. and company standards and policies.

  • Administer performance evaluations or oral evaluations in accordance with the requirements of the evaluation, designed to assess an individual's performance of a covered task as determined by the OQ Plan.

  • Accurately document and maintain records ensuring that said documents and records are legible, accurate, completed appropriately, and traceable to the applicable items or activities.

  • Analyzes reports to assure compliance with company policy and procedures. Addresses and incorporates as necessary new Gas Compliance business processes into the overall Gas Compliance and Operator Qualification effort.

  • Identifies compliance/performance risks and works with the gas operating areas in the development of intermediate and long-term solutions to meet regulatory requirements. Leverages relationships to identify opportunities for improvement and develops solutions to operational issues.

  • Communicates information to company personnel at all levels, including presentations to management and field personnel. Creates and maintains open dialogues with departments, requests information and responds by providing suggestions, alternatives and assistance.

  • Reviews company documents and records to ensure proper documentation and recordkeeping of all activities.


Minimum Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field or a combination of education and experience providing equivalent knowledge.

  • Five years of experience in the gas utility industry.

  • Possess the technical knowledge and capability to ascertain an individual's KSAs to perform covered tasks and recognize and react to Abnormal Operating Conditions (AOCs) associated with the covered task.

  • Able to provide and apply knowledge of all regulations and rules and the company's operating standards, policies, procedures and processes.

  • Proficient with office software applications.

  • Able to handle multiple projects, prioritize and schedule tasks, pay attention to detail and demonstrate good organizational and time management skills.

  • Ability to travel up to 30%.

  • Must be self-motivated and work with minimal supervision.

Preferred Requirements

  • Experience in natural gas transmission/distribution operations, audit services, regulatory compliance functions highly preferred.

As a leading combination electricity and natural gas energy company, Xcel Energy offers a comprehensive portfolio of energy-related products and services to 3.4 million electricity and 1.9 million natural gas customers across eight Western and Midwestern states. At Xcel Energy, we strive to be the preferred and trusted provider of the energy our customers need. If you're ready to be a part of something big, we invite you to join our team.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Individuals with a disability who need an accommodation to apply please contact us at recruiting@xcelenergy.com.

Non-BargainingThe anticipated starting base pay for this position is: $84,900.00 to $120,566.00 per yearThis position is eligible for the following benefits: Annual Incentive Program, Medical/Pharmacy Plan, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Dependent Care Reimbursement Account, Health Care Reimbursement Account, Health Savings Account (HSA) (if enrolled in eligible health plan), Limited-Purpose FSA (if enrolled in eligible health plan and HSA), Transportation Reimbursement Account, Short-term disability (STD), Long-term disability (LTD), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Fitness Center Reimbursement (if enrolled in eligible health plan), Tuition reimbursement, Transit programs, Employee recognition program, Pension, 401(k) plan, Paid time off (PTO), Holidays, Volunteer Paid Time Off (VPTO), Parental Leave

Benefit plans are subject to change and Xcel Energy has the right to end, suspend, or amend any of its plans, at any time, in whole or in part.

In any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information including but not limited to dates of school attendance and graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.

Deadline to Apply: 07/16/26

EEO is the Law |EEO is the Law Supplement | Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination | Equal Opportunity Policy (PDF) | Employee Rights (PDF)

All Xcel Energy employees and contractors share responsibility for protecting the company's information and systems by adhering to cybersecurity policies, standards, and best practices, recognizing that cybersecurity is everyone's responsibility.

ACCESSIBILITY STATEMENT

Xcel Energy endeavors to make https://www.xcelenergy.com/ accessible to any and all users. If you would like to contact us regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact Xcel Energy Talent Acquisition at recruiting@xcelenergy.com. This contact information is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.


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About Xcel Energy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Xcel Energy is a prominent electricity and natural gas service provider serving multiple states in the United States, including Colorado, Michigan, Minnesota, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota, Texas, and Wisconsin. Our commitment revolves around delivering essential services to our valued customers. As a trailblazer in the industry, we were the first major US electricity provider with a visionary goal to achieve 100% carbon-free electricity by 2050 and an ambitious 80% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030, based on 2005 levels. Through innovative electric vehicle initiatives, we actively contribute to carbon reduction not only in our electricity generation but also in the transportation sector within the states we operate. Simultaneously, we remain devoted to ensuring cost-effectiveness for our customers by implementing advanced electricity rates and energy efficiency programs.

Industry

Utilities

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Minneapolis, MN, US

Year founded

1909