How To Become a Pipeline Controller: Step-by-Step Guide

Pipeline controllers are responsible for the safe and efficient operation of pipelines. They work in the oil and gas industry to monitor and control the flow of oil and gas through pipelines. If you are interested in becoming a pipeline controller, it is important to understand the job responsibilities and requirements. In this article, we will discuss what a pipeline controller does, the job requirements and how to become one.

What Does a Pipeline Controller Do?

Pipeline controllers are responsible for the safe and efficient operation of pipelines that transport oil, gas or other products. They work in control rooms and use computers to monitor the flow of these materials through the pipeline system. Pipeline controllers must be able to quickly identify any potential problems and take action to prevent accidents or damage to the system.

The duties of a pipeline controller include:

• Monitoring the flow of oil, gas or other materials through a pipeline system
• Identifying potential problems with the pipeline system
• Taking action to prevent accidents or damage to the system
• Communicating with other members of the pipeline control team
• Coordinating the activities of the pipeline control team
• Maintaining records of pipeline system operations
• Investigating incidents involving the pipeline system

Pipeline Controller Salary and Job Outlook

The average salary for a pipeline controller is $84,975 per year. However, salaries can vary based on experience, education, qualifications and geographical location.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the employment of pipeline controllers will grow faster than average over the next decade. The demand for these professionals will likely increase as the need for energy infrastructure grows. Pipeline controllers play an important role in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of these pipelines.

How to Become a Pipeline Controller

Here are several steps you should take to become a pipeline controller.

1. Earn a bachelor’s degree in business administration, accounting, finance or a related field

A bachelor’s degree is the minimum education requirement for pipeline controller jobs. Many employers prefer candidates to have a business administration, accounting or finance degree. These programs teach students how to use financial data to make sound business decisions and prepare them for careers in management.

Some schools offer specialized pipeline controller programs that provide students with an understanding of the oil and gas industry as well as training on software used by pipeline controllers.

2. Gain experience working in the oil and gas industry

Most pipeline controllers start their careers in other oil and gas industry roles. Entry-level positions that provide experience working with pipelines include those in operations, engineering or geology. These jobs often require a bachelor’s degree but not necessarily in a specific field.

Working as an entry-level employee for several years can help you develop the skills and knowledge needed to become a pipeline controller. You can also gain experience by volunteering with your local fire department or emergency services. This is because pipeline controllers must be prepared to respond quickly to emergencies.

3. Develop strong analytical skills

Pipeline controllers must be able to analyze data and make informed decisions based on that information. They need to have a good understanding of how the oil and gas industry works, as well as how pipelines function and what factors can affect their operations. Pipeline controllers should also be able to identify trends in operational data and use that information to adjust processes or develop new strategies for improving efficiency.

4. Understand pipeline operations and regulations

Pipeline controllers must have a thorough understanding of pipeline operations and regulations. They need to know how much pressure the pipelines can withstand, where they are located and what kind of products they carry. Pipeline controllers also need to understand federal and state regulations that affect pipeline operations. For example, they need to know about environmental regulations that protect wildlife and waterways from accidental spills.

5. Be able to use computer software to control pipeline operations

Pipeline controllers use computer software to monitor and control the flow of oil, gas or other products through pipelines. They may use a variety of programs to track the location of each pipeline segment, calculate how much product is flowing through it at any given time and identify problems that could affect the quality or quantity of the product being delivered.

Pipeline controllers often work in teams with other professionals who are responsible for different aspects of pipeline operations. For example, they might collaborate with engineers who design new segments of pipeline or with field operators who oversee the delivery of products to customers.

6. Have good communication and interpersonal skills

Pipeline controllers must be able to communicate clearly and effectively with a wide range of people. They may need to interact with employees, contractors, customers and other stakeholders in the industry. Pipeline controllers should also have good interpersonal skills so they can work well with others on their team. Communication is an important part of ensuring that everyone involved in pipeline operations understands what’s happening and what needs to happen next.

7. Be able to work well under pressure

Pipeline controllers work in a fast-paced environment where they must make decisions quickly. They often have tight deadlines to meet and may be under pressure from their employers or clients to ensure that pipelines are running smoothly. Pipeline controllers who can remain calm and focused even when faced with stressful situations are more likely to succeed in this role.