Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for a Hot Oil Technician

🎯 Role Definition

Are you a hands-on professional with a strong mechanical aptitude and a commitment to safety? This role requires a dedicated and skilled Hot Oil Technician to join our dynamic field operations team. In this critical role, you will be at the forefront of well servicing, operating specialized high-pressure pumping equipment to maintain and enhance well productivity. You will be responsible for heating and circulating oil and other fluids to dissolve paraffin, clear blockages, and perform various well treatments. This position requires a sharp, safety-focused individual who can operate complex machinery, work effectively in a team, and thrive in the challenging yet rewarding environment of the oilfield. If you're ready to power your career forward and play a vital part in energy production, we want to hear from you.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Roustabout / Lease Operator
Field Hand or Floorhand
CDL Truck Driver with oilfield experience

Advancement To:

Field Supervisor / Service Supervisor
Operations Manager
Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) Coordinator

Lateral Moves:

Coiled Tubing Operator
Frac Equipment Operator
Wireline Operator

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Safely operate and maneuver a high-pressure hot oil truck to and from various well sites, navigating challenging lease roads and environmental conditions in compliance with all DOT regulations.
Perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections on the hot oil unit and all associated equipment, meticulously documenting any faults or maintenance needs to ensure operational readiness and safety.
Rig-up and rig-down high-pressure treating lines, swivels, and wellhead connections, ensuring all fittings are secure and pressure-tested before commencing any pumping operations.
Operate the burner system to heat treating fluids (oil, water, or chemical mixtures) to precise, specified temperatures required for effective paraffin or scale removal.
Control and monitor the triplex pump to circulate heated fluids downhole at designated pressures and rates, closely observing gauges and digital readouts to prevent over-pressuring the wellbore or surface equipment.
Accurately calculate fluid volumes, pipe capacities, and displacement required for each job, adjusting the treatment plan based on well parameters and customer requirements.
Maintain constant communication with the company man or well site supervisor, providing updates on job progress, any operational issues, and final outcomes.
Execute systematic well flushing and pressure testing procedures to confirm the integrity of tubing, casing, and surface lines before and after treatment.
Perform routine and preventative maintenance on the hot oil unit, including checking fluid levels, lubricating the pump, inspecting hoses, and servicing the burner system.
Troubleshoot mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical issues that may arise with the hot oiler truck and its components in the field to minimize downtime and complete the job safely.
Complete all required job tickets, service logs, and safety paperwork (such as Job Safety Analyses - JSAs) with accuracy and detail for billing, reporting, and compliance purposes.
Adhere strictly to all company, customer, and regulatory HSE (Health, Safety, and Environment) policies and procedures on every job site.
Participate actively in pre-job safety meetings, identifying potential hazards and contributing to the development of mitigation strategies.
Manage and maintain an inventory of tools, spare parts, and personal protective equipment (PPE) on the assigned unit.
Conduct pressure and function tests on all iron and treating lines to ensure they meet safety standards before pumping begins.
Respond to emergency situations and equipment malfunctions with a calm and methodical approach, following established emergency response plans.
Assist in the training and mentoring of junior operators or roustabouts, sharing knowledge of equipment operation and safety protocols.
Ensure the well site is kept clean and free of spills, deploying spill containment measures as needed and properly handling any waste materials.
Read and interpret well schematics and job procedures to understand the specific objectives and potential challenges of each service call.
Monitor weather and site conditions, making informed decisions to suspend or modify operations when conditions become unsafe.

Secondary Functions

Assist other service lines (such as wireline, coiled tubing, or workover rigs) on location when hot oiler services are complete.
Participate in company-wide safety stand-downs, training programs, and certification renewals.
Contribute to the continuous improvement of operational procedures by providing feedback from the field.
Maintain the cleanliness and professional appearance of the assigned vehicle and equipment.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Hot Oil Unit Operation: Proficient in the complete operation of a hot oil truck, including burner, pump, and control systems.
Class A or B CDL: A valid Commercial Driver's License with Tanker and Hazmat endorsements is often required.
Pressure Pumping: Strong understanding of high-pressure pumping principles, including rates, pressures, and fluid dynamics.
DOT Regulations: In-depth knowledge of Department of Transportation rules for commercial motor vehicle operation and transportation of hazardous materials.
Wellhead Knowledge: Familiarity with various types of wellheads, valves (gate, globe, check), and connections.
Mechanical Aptitude: Ability to diagnose and perform basic field repairs on diesel engines, hydraulic systems, and pumps.
JSA/JHA Completion: Competency in identifying job site hazards and completing Job Safety Analysis or Job Hazard Analysis forms.
Equipment Maintenance: Experience with preventative maintenance schedules and procedures for heavy equipment.
Pressure Testing: Skill in safely conducting and interpreting pressure tests on surface lines and equipment.
Fluid Calculations: Ability to perform necessary calculations for fluid volumes, displacements, and treatment concentrations.

Soft Skills

Safety-First Mindset: An unwavering commitment to safety protocols and procedures above all else.
Situational Awareness: High level of awareness of the surrounding environment, equipment, and personnel to anticipate and prevent hazards.
Problem-Solving: The ability to think critically and troubleshoot issues under pressure in a field environment.
Strong Communication: Clear and concise communication with team members, supervisors, and clients.
Teamwork & Collaboration: Ability to work effectively as part of a crew to accomplish a common goal.
Work Ethic: A reliable, self-motivated individual who can work long hours in varying weather conditions.
Adaptability: Flexibility to adapt to changing job requirements, schedules, and work locations.
Attention to Detail: Meticulous in inspections, paperwork, and monitoring of equipment.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED equivalent.

Preferred Education:

Completion of a vocational program in diesel mechanics or a related technical field.
Relevant industry safety certifications (e.g., Safeland, H2S Alive).

Relevant Fields of Study:

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

1-3 years of direct experience operating a hot oil unit or similar high-pressure pumping equipment within the oil and gas industry.

Preferred:

3+ years of progressive experience in well servicing, with a proven track record of safety and operational excellence as a Hot Oil Technician. Experience in diverse basins or unconventional plays is a plus.