Pipeline Safety Engineer

The Public Service Commission seeks a talented Pipeline Safety Engineer to join our team and conduct pipeline inspections including gas operators to ensure safe and reliable gas and utility operations. This rewarding position requires analytical and investigative skills, outstanding communication, and ability to shift focus as changing circumstances require.  The successful candidate will join our team of highly motivated staff who collaborate on interesting, meaningful, and critical work. Together we strive to meet our agency's goal of providing extraordinary service to the citizens of  Montana. 

• Communicates frequently with pipeline operators and advises of changing regulations or state and federal compliance requirements.
• Conducts field audits and ensures gas pipeline utilities comply with safety rules and regulations; ensures compliance with Department of Transportation requirements. 
• Reviews, evaluates, and explains state and federal Pipeline Safety policy proposals to the Commission, staff, and other stakeholders.  
• Analyzes technical and operational Pipeline Safety issues and recommends policy positions to the Commission during public meetings or in writing.  
• Cooperate with federal monitoring of the state program and verify program compliance with certification requirements.
• Participates with safety training courses including training conducted by Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration's office of Training and Qualifications (TQ). 
• Determines pipeline operator training needs and provides customized instruction through use of federal standards, TQ training aids, and professional literature.
• Assists supervisor with procedures and documentation for non-compliance issues, preparation of zero-based budgeting for program review and ongoing activities, and recommends new projects, resources, and equipment needs.
• Participate in legislative and rulemaking activities regarding safety standards for jurisdictional intrastate pipelines.

Special Information:  This position is open until filled.  A resume and cover letter are due at time of application.  This position travels in  state approximately 30% to 50% of the time with typically advance notice. Out of state training in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma with approx. 20 to 22 weeks of training to take place at the Pipeline Hazardous Material Safety Administration. Seven core classes must be completed within 3 years.  

Benefits Provided:  On the first day of employment, employees and eligible dependents receive health coverage with medical, dental, vision, and prescriptions including free health care provided by the Montana Health Care Center.  Wellness programs, life insurance, and retirement plan choices are offered.  New employees also receive 15 vacation days, 12 sick days, and paid holidays including a floating holiday.  Flexible schedules and telework are offered when feasible as work/life balance is healthy and encouraged. 

Agency:

The Montana Department of Public Service Regulation (DPSR) is a small state agency with a big impact. We are headed by 5 elected commissioners (the Commission) representing every region of beautiful Montana. Commonly referred to as the Public Service Commission (PSC), our agency is staffed by a team of approximately 33 professionals in the Legal, Regulatory, and Administrative Services Divisions. The PSC is responsible for supervising monopolistic industries within Montana to ensure fair prices, responsible business practices, and sustainable, reliable service for the Montana customers who rely upon them. Regulated industries currently include privately held power, water, sewer, telecommunications, sanitation, and certain commercial transportation providers. The PSC also plays a vital role in railway and Pipeline Safety. The agency has a clear and well-defined strategic plan to enhance our operations, work environment, and value to the public.  Our team includes seasoned leaders with expertise and institutional knowledge coupled with a newly elected commissioner with innovative ideas for the agency.  

Employees enjoy a personable work environment. Staff members are encouraged to cross-train with other positions, providing an opportunity for diversified professional experiences and advancement. The PSC provides ample parking in a private parking lot immediately adjacent to our ground-floor office space, and the building is conveniently located between two of Helena's least congested thoroughfares -- making the drive, walk or ride to work quick and easy.

Competencies

Knowledge of basic pipeline infrastructure and  general construction procedures.

Knowledge of basic engineering principles related to natural gas transmissions systems and distribution systems. 

Knowledge of research and analysis, report writing, and record keeping. 

Excellent written and verbal communication skills. 

Ability to analyze and evaluate complex engineering, technical, and policy issues.

Ability to use personal computers including Microsoft Office Suite.

Ability to travel overnight on short notice and work in inclement weather when needed

Ability to conduct inspections and investigations of pipeline operations. 

Ability to establish and maintain working relationships. 

Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in engineering, construction management, or engineering technology preferred.  Other combinations of education and experience may be substituted.