The role is responsible for the installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of communication and radio systems, ensuring reliable data transmission across field networks. This includes verifying system performance, diagnosing connectivity issues, and implementing corrective actions to restore functionality.
In addition, the position supports field operations through preventive maintenance, continuous monitoring of network and communication devices, and accurate tracking of workload and service activities. Detailed documentation of troubleshooting steps, findings, and resolutions is required to maintain operational visibility and improve system reliability.
The role also includes field-level installation and support of automation systems. This involves installing and wiring control panels, RTUs, PLCs, and associated I/O devices; terminating and testing field cabling; integrating communication equipment with automation hardware; and verifying proper operation of sensors, actuators, and control loops. Responsibilities include assisting with device configuration, signal validation, and point-to-point checkout to ensure seamless communication between field devices and control systems. The position supports startup and commissioning activities, performs basic diagnostics on automation equipment, and ensures installations meet operational and safety standards.
Responsibilities:
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Maintain and Install Instrumentation device, Calibrate/Scale/Verify input/output devices for accuracy.
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Support field operations with Preventive Maintenance and Inspection of Instrumentation and Low Voltage Electrical components.
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Track workload and document troubleshooting, and corrective actions taken to resolve issues.
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Install/Span Digital Valve and Electric and Pneumatic Actuator controls, with no supervision.
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Entry Level Communications understanding/troubleshooting –TCP/IP and RTU RS485 Modbus Network Connectivity and deviceaddressing withlimited supervision.
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Instrumentation – Hart Communicators, Configuration, anddeviceCalibration/Scaling. 4-20mA Input/Output, Phone-out and/or ohm out of wiring and device repair/replacement with little to no supervision.
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Electrical – 110VAC and lower, 24-48 VDC, low amp/voltage wiring to +/- and Ground applications to common bus bars and terminal/fuse blocks, with limited supervision. Change out low amperage fuses and reset spring loadedbreakerand terminal blocks.
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Maintain and Install Communication and Radio devices, Verify/Test/Troubleshoot successful data transmission.
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Support field operations with Preventive Maintenance and Monitoring of Field Network Devices
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Identifycommunication optimization opportunities, share techniques with peers to improve team troubleshooting/break-fix capabilities.
Computer/Software Applications:
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Basic level of skills and familiarity with Microsoft Office. Basic knowledge of the following discipline specific programs as required by specific specialty: Reservoir: Aries, HIS; Drilling: Well View, AFE Navigator; Completions: Well View; Facilities: Oceaneering ACET,eMaintCMMS; SCADA Technical skills that allow easy adaptation to other related applications (AVM, SAP, Spotfire)
Requirements:
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TheOperations Specialist - I/E Technicianisexpected to have an intermediatecommunications understanding/troubleshooting –TCP/IP and RTU RS485 Modbus Network Connectivity, modem configurations, radio configurations, Network settings and IP, gateway, subnet mask understanding and RTU Slave and Master configurations with limited to nosupervision(Cambium, Ubiquiti, Tropos).
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Entry Level Automation understanding to correlate end device configuration and Graphical Interfaces and control narrative cause and effect logic/functions.
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Can consistentlyidentify“What a device is, how it is being used, and why it is important to the Facility Process”.
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High School Diploma or Equivalent Required
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Associates or Bachelor’sdegree in related field preferred
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Minimum2+ years of work experiencerequired
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Oil and gas industry experience a plus
Physical Demands:
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Work in various weather conditions and environments
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Move, transport, and position equipment weighing up to 50 pounds
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Manipulate valves, gauges, and other control mechanisms
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Ability tooperatea motor vehicle to travel between well sites**
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Ability to climb up to 30 feet in height and function without fear
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Ability to stand and walk for prolonged periods of time
** Must meet and maintain eligibility requirements to drive a company vehicle OR valid state driver’s license and clean driving record.
SM Energy offers competitive compensation and benefits programs which include, but are not limited to, variable pay, health care coverage, retirement plan, protection coverage, time off and leave programs, training and development opportunities and a range of allowances connected to specific work situations. Details are available at Careers :: SM Energy Company (SM) (sm-energy.com).
Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the position is filled.
