Senior Leak Detection Engineer

Job Type:

Plains All American is an industry-leading transportation and midstream provider specializing in transportation, storage, processing and marketing solutions for crude oil and natural gas liquids (NGLs). We own an extensive network of pipeline transportation, terminalling, storage and gathering assets in key crude oil and NGL producing basins and transportation corridors and at major market hubs in the United States and Canada. On average, Plains handles more than 6 million barrels per day of crude oil and NGL in its Transportation segment. The company is headquartered in Houston, Texas.

We are looking for highly-motivated individuals who enjoy working as part of a team in a dynamic and entrepreneurial work environment.

Plains has an immediate opening for a Leak Detection Engineer to join our North American Operational Technology group. The mission of this group is to assist Plains in enhancing our leak detection capabilities to exceed regulatory requirements where it is reasonable to do so. Reporting to the Director, Operational Technology, you will be tasked with developing, implementing, and sustaining Plains’ Leak Detection Program (LDP) for our assets in compliance with applicable US and Canadian regulations and standards..

The successful candidate will be eligible for company benefits including Medical/Dental/Vision, and paid time off.

This position will be based out of Houston. Expatriation is not available for this role. Occasional domestic and cross-border travel is expected.

Responsibilities:

• Configure, implement and maintain simulated models for leak detection systems.
• Monitor and tune leak detection systems.
• Assess leak detection system performance, including false alarms, with Operations Control.
• Understand and interpret pipeline systems to establish leak detection requirements.
• Collaborate with Operations Control and Pipeline Integrity to determine critical assets and prioritization.
• Provide rotational 24x7 on-call technical service to the Control Center for leak detection support as needed.
• Review field equipment and operations and provide recommendations to improve leak detection capabilities.
• Prepare cost estimates, budgets and supplies as well as oversight of changes.
• Evaluate leak detection and simulation technologies, staying current on industry trends and regulations.
• Develop technologies to improve leak detection performance.
• Provide training for Controllers and Operators.
• Execute additional projects as required and provide mentorship to junior engineers.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering (materials, chemical, or mechanical).
• 5+ years’ related experience.
• Knowledge of Canadian pipeline regulations and industry standards (CSA Z662).
• Knowledge of DOT/PHMSA regulations and standards.
• Experience with pipeline leak detection systems and programs.
• Proficient in advanced computer programs (SimSuite PIM strongly preferred).
• Programming experience (SQL, scripting languages, VBA).
• Familiarity with data analysis techniques, statistics, PLCs, and SCADA systems.
• Flexible and able to adapt to changing work priorities while managing multiple projects with short turnaround times, including unplanned overtime.
• Ability to work a rotational on-call shift for after-hours leak detection alerts.
• Skilled in cross-functional collaboration to identify solutions while considering other work groups' priorities.
• Exceptional interpersonal and written communication skills.
• Proven ability to lead system implementations across a broad organization.
• Able to travel internationally (up to 15% to Olds, Alberta, and up to 5% to Midland, Texas).
• Cleared criminal history (background) and satisfactory reference checks.
• Valid driver’s license with a clean abstract.

At Plains, our employees are our most valuable asset. Hard work is rewarded with competitive compensation and a top-tier benefits program designed to keep our employees safe, healthy and happy. We work hard to deliver the best results to our stakeholders and we also respect our employees need for personal and family time, which is reflected in our benefits program.

Salary details estimated by job boards such as Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn do not represent Plains’ compensation structure. We thank all candidates for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. 

By submitting your resume, you consent to the collection, use and necessary disclosure of the personal information provided during the application and selection process. Learn more.