Sterling Oil Exploration & Energy Production Company Ltd. (SEEPCO) is an indigenous company that ventured into Exploration and Production (E&P) business in the year 2005 bid round held by Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) and was successful with license OML 143 (formerly OPL 280). At SEEPCO, we are committed to excellence in the oil and gas sector, driving innovation, sustainability, and growth. Follow us for the latest updates, industry insights, and career opportunities.
We are recruiting to fill the position below: Job Title: Utility Operator
Locations: Akwa Ibom and Delta Employment Type: Contract
About the Role
We are actively recruiting a highly skilled Utility Operator. Operating within a world-class, integrated Ammonia/Urea production facility, you will take ownership of the critical Utility Generation and Distribution Systemsthat feed the main ammonia synthesis process. This includes High/Medium/Low Pressure Steam, Boiler Feed Water (BFW) treatment, Cooling Water systems, Instrument/Plant Air compressors, and Nitrogen generation units.
The ideal candidate is deeply ingrained in a "Goal Zero" HSE culture, possesses advanced expertise in thermal and fluid utility systems, and is committed to Asset Integrity, Energy Optimization, and Reliability-Centered Maintenance (RCM). You will utilize digital work management systems (CMMS) to ensure zero utility trips, which are critical to preventing catastrophic ammonia plant shutdowns, while driving continuous energy efficiency and sustainability targets.
Key Responsibilities Utility Generation & Distribution Operations:
Operate, monitor, and optimize Boiler systems (HP/MP/LP), Boiler Feed Water (BFW) treatment, Cooling Towers, Instrument/Plant Air compressors, and Nitrogen generation units via the DCS and field panels.
Ensure the continuous, stable supply of utilities to the Ammonia plant, specifically maintaining strict steam balance for the Primary Reformer and Syngas/Air compressors, and adequate cooling water for the Synthesis Loop.
Manage fuel gas reception and distribution, optimizing combustion efficiency in boilers and heaters to minimize fuel consumption and reduce emissions.
Execute complex utility start-ups, normal operations, and Emergency Shutdowns (ESD) in strict adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
Ammonia Plant Integration & Energy Optimization:
Collaborate with the main Ammonia Process team to anticipate utility demands during process upsets, catalyst reductions, or load changes.
Drive the plant’s Energy Transition and Sustainability goals by optimizing boiler combustion, maximizing cooling tower cycles of concentration, reducing steam venting, and improving overall thermal efficiency.
Monitor and control nitrogen distribution networks, ensuring safe and adequate supply for plant purging, blanketing, and instrument air backup systems.
Asset Integrity, Reliability & Digital Work Management:
Champion the facility’s Asset Integrity Management System (AIMS) for all utility assets, monitoring for corrosion, scaling, and erosion in steam/condensate lines and cooling water systems.
Utilize the Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS - e.g., SAP PM / IBM Maximo) to raise, track, and close work orders, document technical histories, and manage spare parts for utility packages.
Support Reliability-Centered Maintenance (RCM) strategies, collaborating with the mechanical/rotating equipment team during condition monitoring (vibration, lube oil analysis, thermography) and Turnaround Maintenance (TAM).
HSE, Process Safety & Leadership:
Strictly enforce the company’s Life-Saving Rules, Permit to Work (PTW), and Lock-Out/Tag-Out (LOTO) procedures, ensuring zero energy incidents during maintenance handovers.
Actively participate in Job Safety Analysis (JSA), Hazard Identification (HAZID), and Toolbox Talks, exercising Stop Work Authority (SWA) when conditions are unsafe.
Operate safely in Hazardous Areas, managing the risks associated with high-pressure steam, hot surfaces, and potential ammonia ingress into utility systems.
Mentor junior operators and field technicians, fostering a high-performance, safety-first, and continuous improvement culture.
Requirements & Qualifications
OND, HND, B.Eng / B.Sc in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or Power Plant Engineering; or a recognized advanced technical certification in Utility/Power Plant Operations.
Minimum 5 years of hands-on operational experience specifically as a Panel/Field Operator in the Utility, Power, or Boiler/Air Compressor section of a large-scale Ammonia, Fertilizer, Petrochemical, Refinery, or Gas Processing plant.
Proven, verifiable experience operating high-pressure boilers, cooling water systems, instrument air compressors, and nitrogen plants.
Deep understanding of thermodynamics, steam/water cycles, combustion principles, and cooling tower water chemistry.
Strong ability to read and interpret P&IDs, utility balance diagrams, steam trap layouts, and cause-and-effect matrices.
Familiarity with DCS/SCADA systems for utility control and advanced process control (APC) concepts for boiler optimization.
Certifications & HSE: Valid HSE Level 1, 2, & 3 certifications; strong awareness of Process Safety Management (PSM).
Specialized training in High-Pressure Boiler Operation, Steam Systems, or Rotating Equipment (Compressors) is a strong advantage.
BOSIET/HUETand valid Offshore Medical (if applicable to site/terminal rotation).
What We Offer
A highly competitive, top-tier Oil & Gas remuneration package with applicable rotation allowances.
Opportunity to operate world-class, high-integrity utility assets in an integrated fertilizer facility.
Exposure to advanced digital work management, energy optimization, and sustainabilityinitiatives.
A "Goal Zero" safety culturewith clear career progression into Senior Operations, Utility Engineering, or Plant Management pathways