Chemical, Gas, Petroleum and Power Generation Plant Operators are professionals who are responsible for controlling the operation of chemical production equipment, pumping gas and oil from wellheads, refining and processing petroleum products, and operating boilers, turbogenerators, and associated plants to generate electrical power.

Indicative Skill Level:

Most occupations in this unit group have a level of skill commensurate with the qualifications and experience outlined below.

In Australia:

• AQF Certificate III including at least two years of on-the-job training, or AQF Certificate IV (ANZSCO Skill Level 3)

In New Zealand:

• NZQF Level 4 qualification (ANZSCO Skill Level 3)

At least three years of relevant experience may substitute for the formal qualifications listed above. In some instances, relevant experience and/or on-the-job training may be required in addition to the formal qualification. Registration or licensing may also be required.

Tasks Include:

• Controlling equipment performing continuous and batch processes to process chemicals and natural gas, manufacture refined petroleum products, and blend petroleum base stocks to produce commercial fuels, lubricating oils, and asphalt
• Controlling the preparation, measuring, and feeding of raw material and processing agents such as catalysts and filtering media into the plant
• Patrolling and inspecting equipment to ensure proper operation and setting operating controls on equipment
• Analyzing samples and readings and recording test data
• Controlling records of production, quantities transferred, and details of blending and pumping operations
• Checking equipment for malfunctions
• Inspecting, repairing, servicing, and maintaining equipment
• Operating power generation plant controls to produce the required load
• Monitoring the operation of power generation plant and interpreting instrument readings
• Authorizing procedures to isolate high-voltage and low-voltage electrical apparatus and plant
• Writing reports and maintaining records on equipment performance, instrument readings, and switching operations
• Carrying out routine operating tests

Occupations:

• 399211 Chemical Plant Operator
• 399212 Gas or Petroleum Operator
• 399213 Power Generation Plant Operator

399211 Chemical Plant Operator

Controls the operation of chemical production plant.

Skill Level: 3

Specializations:

• Chemicals Distiller
• Chemicals Fermentation Operator
• Industrial Gas Production Operator
• Paint Maker
• Pharmaceutical Plant Operator
• Pilot Plant Operator

399212 Gas or Petroleum Operator

Alternative Titles:

• Oil and Gas Well Treatment Operator
• Oil, Gas and Pipe Tester
• Petroleum and Gas Refining and Pumping Operator

Operates equipment to pump oil and gas from wellheads, and refine and process petroleum products.

Skill Level: 3

Specializations:

• Gas Compressor Turbine Operator
• Petroleum Blending Plant Operator
• Petroleum Terminal Plant Operator
• Refinery Pipeline Operator

399213 Power Generation Plant Operator

Operates boilers, turbogenerators, and associated plant to generate electrical power. Registration or licensing is required.

Skill Level: 3

Specializations:

• Wind Turbine Technician