Senior Gas Controller and Operations Lead

DARRICK SMITH

Wharton, Texas, USA 979-***-**** *******@*****.***

Professional Overview

Seasoned energy industry professional with 30 years of experience in chemical gas refineries, pipeline field operations, and natural gas control room management. Skilled in monitoring and regulating pipeline systems, ensuring compliance with DOT, PHMSA, and safety regulations, and coordinating field and control room operations to maintain system reliability and efficiency. Adept at leveraging deep technical knowledge and hands-on field expertise to identify risks, troubleshoot operational issues, and respond to emergencies with sound judgment. Recognized for strong leadership, safety-first mindset, and the ability to build collaborative relationships across multidisciplinary teams.

Core Competencies

• Detail-oriented and accurate

• Problem-solving and decision-making

• Work well under pressure

• Critical thinking and fast response

• Collaborative in control room settings

• Time management and multitasking

• Compliance and safety-focused

• Data analysis and interpretation

• Adaptable and quick learner

Technical Skills

• SCADA systems

• Gas flow measurement and regulation

• Control room operations

• Pressure regulation

• Knowledge of DOT, PHMSA, FERC rules

• System startup, shutdown, and switching

• Alarm monitoring and response

•Performance documentation and reporting

• Maintenance coordination

Education

College of the Mainland – Petrochemical Process Operations, 1992

Army National Guard – Specialty in Armored Tank Combat, 1996–2004

Professional Experience

Lead Gas Controller

Energy Transfer Partners 2011 – 2025

Oversee real-time pipeline operations, adjusting flow rates and pressures to maintain system integrity and meet customer demands.

Coordinate and schedule gas transportation services, ensuring timely and accurate nominations and confirmations.

Identify and address operational issues promptly, dispatching field personnel as needed.

Maintain accurate system records, including pressures, temperatures, and flow data, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.

Respond to alarms and emergencies, implementing corrective actions to ensure safety and minimize disruptions.

Pipeline Technician

Williams Pipeline Company 2008 – 2011

Operated board and field equipment for onshore and offshore plant operations.

Managed and maintained compressors, meters, separation and dehydration systems, PLCs, valves, and control panels.

Performed preventive and corrective maintenance on gas processing controls, DCS, MCCs, switchgear, turbines, heaters, boilers, and booster compressors.

Supported safe and efficient operation of plant equipment.

Process Operator

Oxea Corporation 2007 – 2008

Operated compressors, pumps, blowers, and field instrumentation.

Collected and analyzed process samples and adjusted operations based on results.

Conducted inspections, troubleshooting, and adjustments to ensure safe and efficient operations.

Monitored multiple processes through DCS and coordinated equipment preparation for maintenance.

Served on the site Fire Crew and Emergency Response Team.

Process Operator

Dow 2006 – 2007

Operated control systems and equipment to ensure safe and efficient operations.

Inspected equipment, identified maintenance needs, and issued safe work permits.

Troubleshot process and safety issues to maintain reliable operations.

Coordinated with transportation providers on equipment and carrier issues.

Served on the Fire Crew and Emergency Response Team.

Process Operator

Phillips 66 1997 – 2006

Operated process equipment and control systems safely, monitored levels, pressures, temperatures, and flow rates.

Conducted field checks, adjusted systems, and operated equipment manually as needed.

Troubleshot process and equipment issues, performed minor repairs, and supported preventive maintenance.

Used computer tools and software to efficiently complete operational tasks.

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