PHMSA Compliance Representative
The Woodlands, TX, US, 77380
Job Summary:
The PHMSA Compliance Representative is responsible for driving the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of compliance programs in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) regulations under 49 CFR Parts 192 and 195.
This role ensures Western Midstream meets federal pipeline safety requirements while maintaining safe and effective operations. In addition to leading the company’s Public Awareness and Damage Prevention programs, the position also supports broader pipeline safety and compliance initiatives, including audits, Operations and Maintenance, Accident Investigations, and staying current with regulatory updates.
This role requires close coordination with diverse internal and external groups stakeholders to ensure regulatory alignment, effective communication, and continuous improvement of the pipeline safety programs.
Qualifications:
- 5+ years of experience in pipeline operations, regulatory compliance, or related field with knowledge of PHMSA regulations (49 CFR Parts 192 & 195).
- Strong understanding of Operations & Maintenance Manuals and related programs including Design and Construction
- Familiarity with Public Awareness and Damage Prevention programs, including API RP 1162, 811 systems, and stakeholder engagement practices.
- Experience in audits, and incident investigation, and emergency response requirements is preferred
- Must have excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills to effectively collaborate with diverse internal and external groups, including engineers, operations teams, contractors, vendors, and regulatory agencies
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment by working independently and collaboratively across departments, while demonstrating strong analytical, time management, and organizational skills.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office; experience with GIS and database systems is a plus.
- Valid US Driver’s License
Responsibilities:
- Lead the Public Awareness and Damage Prevention programs to ensure alignment with 49 CFR Parts 192 and 195, API RP 1162, and industry best practices.
- Manage stakeholder outreach and liaison activities with emergency responders, public officials, excavators, and third-party vendors across multiple states.
- Monitor and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) related to public awareness, ticket activity, and third-party damage to support data-driven decision-making.
- Serve as the primary liaison with governmental agencies and industry organizations regarding public awareness, damage prevention, and compliance outreach.
- Support the DOT Compliance Team in maintaining compliance programs including Operations & Maintenance, Design & Construction, Integrity Management, Operator Qualification, and Control Room Management.
- Lead internal and external audits by preparing documentation, coordinating internal audit team preparation, and assisting with the development of formal responses to regulatory audit findings
- Ensure timely and accurate regulatory notifications and reporting to PHMSA, state agencies, including the National Response Center (NRC) as required
- Implement and maintain emergency response and incident investigation procedures, including participation in or leadership of accident investigations and conducting root cause analyses for events such as third-party damage and pipeline product releases.
- Monitor federal and state pipeline safety regulations; support updates to internal policies, procedures, and training to maintain regulatory compliance.
- Collaborate with internal teams (Operations, GIS, Integrity, Legal, etc.) to maintain accurate pipeline data and ensure program alignment.
- Provide support for training development and delivery across internal compliance and safety programs.
- Engage with industry organizations such as GPA, API, CGA, state One-Call centers, and other pipeline safety groups to represent company interests and share best practices.
Education / Experience:
- Bachelor of Science degree in a technical field is strongly preferred
- 5+ years of Experience in the pipeline, utility, or energy sectors with knowledge of PHMSA regulations under 49 CFR Parts 192 and 195
- Familiarity with API RP 1162, Public Awareness initiatives for pipeline operators
- Familiarity of Damage prevention programs and involvement in organizations like CGA (Common Ground Alliance) or state 811 centers
- Prior audit or inspection experience related to PHMSA or state pipeline safety programs
Certifications / Licenses:
- None
Travel:
Up to 25%
Relocation:
Not eligible
Work Schedule:
This position will work in the office Monday/Tuesday/Thursday (9 hours) and remotely Wednesday (9hrs) and Friday (4 hours).
Nearest Major Market: Houston