Rig Operator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Company Information

QB Energy is a Denver-based upstream natural gas company committed to delivering value through responsible acquisition, development, and production that benefits both shareholders and stakeholders by operating efficiently, sustainably, and with cutting-edge technology.

QB Energy operates in the Piceance Basin of Western Colorado, currently operating about 400,000 net acres. The company develops and operates upstream gathering, compression, processing, and fractionation assets, with a focus on safety, environmental stewardship, and community engagement. Initiatives such as zero-flaring, methane emissions reduction, water recycling, and wildlife mitigation help minimize footprint while maximizing long-term value.

Job Summary

The Slickline/Swab Rig Operator will report to the Workover Superintendent. The Slickline/Swab Rig Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of slickline/swab rigs and associated equipment used to unload fluid from oil and gas wells, assist in production optimization, and support well maintenance activities. This position plays a critical role in maintaining production flow, troubleshooting wells, and ensuring all work is completed in compliance with company policies, environmental regulations, and safety standards. The ideal candidate demonstrates strong mechanical and technological aptitude, operational discipline, communication skills, and a commitment to safe work practices in all weather and field conditions.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Operate slickline/swab rigs and related production equipment safely and efficiently.
• Perform slickline/swabbing operations on oil and gas wells to remove fluids and improve well productivity.
• Lead slickline/swab field operations and provide direction to Slickline/Swab Rig Technicians during well intervention activities
• Utilization of pressurized swabbing
• Rig up and rig down swab equipment according to operational procedures.
• Monitor well conditions during swabbing operations and identify abnormal pressures, fluid returns, or equipment issues.
• Assist with production optimization activities and well troubleshooting.
• Maintain accurate records of swab volumes, pressures, fluid levels, and operational results.
• Coordinate daily work activities with Optimization Coordinators as well as Production Foremen and other field personnel.
• Ensure wells are returned to proper operating conditions following swab operations.
• Inspect sand line, swab cups, lubricators, valves, and pressure control equipment before and after each job.
• Record keeping in QB systems like Well View
• Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections of trucks and associated equipment.
• Assemble and disassemble Swab tools strings based on well requirements
• Transport equipment safely between well locations. Perform well intervention tasks including:
  • Fluid extraction
  • Pulling stuck plungers
  • Retrieving stuck Downhole tools
  • Tag for fill
• Safely rig up and rig down swab equipment at well locations
• Monitor well conditions and maintain safe well control practices during operations 

Safety & Compliance

• Stay informed on ECMC rules and regulations
• Ensure operational activities align with regulatory requirements, company policies, and industry standards
• Exercise Stop Work Authority when unsafe conditions are identified
• Ensure compliance with OSHA, CDOT, and company safety requirements
• Promote a strong safety culture and mentor technicians on safe operating procedures 

Operational Coordination

• Maintain accurate records and documentation of truck, crane, and equipment certifications
• Plan, prioritize, and schedule swab work in coordination with production operations
• Ensure operational activities align with regulatory requirements and company standards
• Ensure efficient utilization of swab equipment and personnel across wells, zones, and projects
• Collaborate with Area Production Foremen and Superintendents to document proper billing and work allocation to each well
• Maintain records of inspections on cranes, sand line, and lifting equipment to ensure compliance with CDOT and OSHA standards
• Identify and address operational issues or deviations and communicate with the Area Production Foreman as needed
• Prepare regular reports for District Superintendent regarding well work status, operational activities, and equipment performance
• Coordinate with different operational disciplines to conduct work effectively as a team or independently
• Perform other duties as assigned 

Equipment Management

• Maintain swab rig truck, drum, pressure control equipment, and associated tools
• Inspect and service lubricators, stuffing boxes, cranes, and pressure control equipment (BOP)
• Ensure all pressure control equipment is properly tested and certified prior to use
• Identify equipment issues and coordinate repairs as needed
• Ensure proper tool string assembly for each job
• Maintain and operate company-owned and rented vehicles including trucks and UTVs
• Utilize software systems such as WellView, ProntoForms, and other record-keeping platforms to maintain operational and compliance documentation
• Comply with and champion QB Energy environmental, health, and safety (EHS) programs
• Foster and promote a culture of teamwork and operational accountability
• Demonstrate strong communication skills with QB personnel in a professional manner

Safety & Compliance

• Stay informed on ECMC rules and regulations
• Ensure operational activities align with regulatory requirements, company policies, and industry standards
• Exercise Stop Work Authority when unsafe conditions are identified
• Ensure compliance with OSHA, CDOT, and company safety requirements
• Promote a strong safety culture and mentor technicians on safe operating procedures 

Operational Coordination

• Maintain accurate records and documentation of truck, crane, and equipment certifications
• Plan, prioritize, and schedule swab work in coordination with production operations
• Ensure operational activities align with regulatory requirements and company standards
• Ensure efficient utilization of swab equipment and personnel across wells, zones, and projects
• Collaborate with Area Production Foremen and Superintendents to document proper billing and work allocation to each well
• Maintain records of inspections on cranes, sand line, and lifting equipment to ensure compliance with CDOT and OSHA standards
• Identify and address operational issues or deviations and communicate with the Area Production Foreman as needed
• Prepare regular reports for District Superintendent regarding well work status, operational activities, and equipment performance
• Coordinate with different operational disciplines to conduct work effectively as a team or independently
• Perform other duties as assigned 

Equipment Management

• Maintain swab rig truck, drum, pressure control equipment, and associated tools
• Inspect and service lubricators, stuffing boxes, cranes, and pressure control equipment (BOP)
• Ensure all pressure control equipment is properly tested and certified prior to use
• Identify equipment issues and coordinate repairs as needed
• Ensure proper tool string assembly for each job
• Maintain and operate company-owned and rented vehicles including trucks and UTVs
• Utilize software systems such as WellView, ProntoForms, and other record-keeping platforms to maintain operational and compliance documentation
• Comply with and champion QB Energy environmental, health, and safety (EHS) programs
• Foster and promote a culture of teamwork and operational accountability
• Demonstrate strong communication skills with QB personnel in a professional manner 

Qualifications

Education

• High School diploma or G.E.D. required

Industry Experience

• 6+ years’ oil and gas industry experience, with focus on Slickline/Wireline Operations
• Understanding of Production, Midstream and Water Handling Facilities are advantageous.

Skills & Abilities

• Quick decision-making skills to address corrective action promptly.
• Must possess excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Strong Organizational skills and time management skills.
• Proficient computer skills in Microsoft Products.
• Winter Operations Knowledge
• Cold Weather Hydraulic awareness
• High Elevation Equipment Management
• Mountain Driving
• Strong Leadership ability
• Strong interpersonal skills with ability to work as part of a team with no supervision.
• Desire to progress into next level of the organization.
• Must be able to coordinate work and project possible safety concerns in a timely manner.
• Ability to work around pressurized equipment and heavy machinery

Specialized knowledge

• H2S Certification and SCBA training where required
• 24-Hour HAZWOPER Certification
• Knowledge of CDOT regulations related to commercial vehicle operation
• Class B CDL required
• Knowledge of pressure control procedures and well intervention safety practices
• Understanding of lubricator assembly and pressure control equipment
• Strong knowledge of slickline tool string assembly
• Understanding of various plunger systems and downhole tool assemblies
• Basic fishing techniques and downhole retrieval methods
• Wireline tension management and line integrity monitoring
• Depth control and slickline measurement procedures
• OEM training (NOV HydraRig, Casedhole equipment, etc.) preferred
• Crane operator training in compliance with OSHA requirements
• NCCCO Certification preferred 

Compensation

The base compensation for this role in this location is targeted between $67,600 and $93,600 annually. Final title and offer amounts are determined by multiple factors, including candidate experience and expertise.

Benefits and Perks

As an employee of QB Energy, you’ll enjoy an impressive benefits package:

• Medical Plan: QB Energy offers multiple medical plans to choose from
  • Lowest level plan premiums are covered at 100% for employees and dependents
• Dental Plan
• Vision Plan
• Long-term disability, life insurance, and AD&D covered by QB Energy
• 401k plan: QB Energy matches 100% of employee contributions up to the first 6% of compensation
• Paid Time Off
• Paid Holidays
• Gym membership reimbursement

Work Conditions

Location:

This position is in Parachute, CO. Candidates currently residing in locations outside of daily commuting distance will be considered, however, it is the expectation that the selected individual will be available at the work location.

Work Environment:

This is a full-time position that operates in a field environment. The role requires flexibility to work weekends, nights, holidays, and handle callouts as needed. Employees must be able to work and drive in various weather conditions, including extreme temperatures, wind, snow, and rain. Overtime may occasionally be required, resulting in extended work shifts. Individuals must possess the physical ability to safely handle the tools necessary to perform their duties. This position is subject to federally mandated drug and alcohol testing.

Physical Demands:

In the performance of the duties and responsibilities of this job, the employee is required to have visual acuity to operate a motor vehicle and view a computer terminal for prolonged periods of time. While at work sites, the employee will be expected to walk and stand. Individuals might be asked to climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, reach, and/or crawl. Individuals might be required to lift, carry, push, or pull up to a minimum of 50 lbs. in the performance of this position.

Additional Information

Disclaimer:

This job posting is not intended to contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee. The Company reserves the right to change or assign additional duties, responsibilities, and activities at any time with or without notice.

Hiring Practices:

QB Energy is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. We do not discriminate in hiring or any employment decision based on race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), marital status, ancestry, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, or other applicable legally protected characteristic. We consider qualified applicants with criminal histories, consistent with applicable federal, state, and local law. We are also committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our application procedures. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact HR Manager at HR@qb-energy.com.

We anticipate this post will close in 30 days