Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Flow Technician Assistant

🎯 Role Definition

The Flow Technician Assistant is a crucial, hands-on field position supporting our senior operations team. This role is instrumental in the installation, operation, maintenance, and teardown of flow control, measurement, and well testing equipment. Working under the direct supervision of a Lead Technician, you will be responsible for ensuring that all on-site activities are performed safely, efficiently, and in strict accordance with company policies and client specifications. This is an exceptional entry-point for a motivated individual looking to build a long-term career in the dynamic energy services industry.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

High School or Trade School Graduate
General Laborer or Roustabout
Industrial or Mechanical Apprentice

Advancement To:

Flow Technician / Flowback Operator
Lead Field Technician
Field Service Supervisor

Lateral Moves:

Maintenance Technician
HSE (Health, Safety, and Environment) Advisor

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Actively assist senior technicians in the safe and efficient rig-up and rig-down of all surface-level flowback, well testing, and production equipment, including separators, choke manifolds, and flowlines.
Perform routine and preventative maintenance on a variety of mechanical equipment such as valves, pumps, separators, and piping systems to ensure optimal performance and minimize downtime.
Diligently monitor, record, and report critical operational data, including flow rates, pressures, temperatures, and fluid levels, using both digital and analog instrumentation.
Operate high-pressure pumps, chokes, and other flow control equipment under the direct guidance and supervision of experienced personnel.
Collect, label, and prepare fluid and gas samples from the flow stream for detailed laboratory analysis, ensuring sample integrity and accurate documentation.
Conduct regular inspections of all job site equipment, hoses, and connections to identify potential leaks, hazards, or maintenance needs before they escalate.
Maintain a comprehensive inventory of tools, spare parts, and consumables on the work location or service vehicle, reporting any shortages to the site lead.
Execute systematic pressure testing of lines, vessels, and systems to verify their integrity and ensure they are safe for operation.
Adhere to and enforce all company and client-specific Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) policies, including proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at all times.
Participate actively in pre-job safety meetings, Job Safety Analysis (JSA), and toolbox talks to understand and mitigate site-specific risks.
Assist in the troubleshooting of minor to moderate equipment malfunctions, applying mechanical aptitude to identify root causes and implement corrective actions.
Ensure the worksite is kept clean, organized, and free of hazards, performing general housekeeping duties as required.

Secondary Functions

Support senior technicians with the reading and interpretation of Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs) and other technical schematics for equipment setup.
Complete daily operational logs, maintenance records, and safety documentation with a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail.
Assist with the loading, unloading, and proper securing of equipment and materials onto transport vehicles for mobilization and demobilization.
Develop a foundational understanding of well-testing principles and fluid dynamics to better contribute to operational objectives.
Maintain clear and professional communication with the on-site supervisor, control room operators, and other crew members regarding job status and any safety concerns.
Contribute to a positive team environment by demonstrating a strong work ethic, a willingness to learn, and a commitment to collaborative problem-solving.
Operate light industrial equipment, such as forklifts or personnel lifts, upon receiving proper training and certification.
Support ad-hoc operational requests and respond promptly to changing site conditions or client needs as directed by the Lead Technician.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Mechanical Aptitude: Strong, demonstrable ability to work with hands and effectively use a wide range of hand and power tools for assembly, disassembly, and repair.
Equipment Operation: Basic understanding of and ability to learn the operation of pumps, valves, and high-pressure systems.
HSE Awareness: Foundational knowledge of oilfield and industrial safety standards (e.g., Lockout/Tagout, PPE, JSA).
Technical Documentation: Ability to read, interpret, and accurately record data from gauges, meters, and digital sensors.
Basic Computer Literacy: Proficiency in using computers or tablets for data entry, completing daily reports, and email communication.
Physical Stamina: Ability to perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting up to 50-75 lbs, standing for long periods, and working in various weather conditions.

Soft Skills

Safety-First Mindset: An unwavering commitment to personal and team safety as the top priority in all tasks.
Strong Work Ethic: Dependable, punctual, and willing to work long, irregular hours, including nights, weekends, and rotational shifts as required.
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Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to think critically and assist in troubleshooting issues in a logical, step-by-step manner.
Effective Communication: Clearly and concisely communicate information, questions, and safety concerns to supervisors and team members.
Teamwork & Collaboration: Ability to work effectively as part of a close-knit crew, follow instructions, and support team goals.
Attention to Detail: Meticulous in recording data, performing inspections, and completing documentation to ensure accuracy and compliance.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or equivalent (GED).

Preferred Education:

Certificate or Associate's Degree from a vocational or technical college.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Process Technology (PTEC)
Industrial Maintenance or Mechanical Technology
Petroleum Engineering Technology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

0-2 years of experience in a related industrial, oilfield, or mechanical environment.

Preferred:

6+ months of experience in a direct field role such as a roustabout, floorhand, or within a flowback, well testing, or pipeline services company is highly desirable. A valid commercial driver's license (CDL) is a strong plus.