Position Summary:

Develops and conducts training programs for Field Operations, including Construction, Customer Field Services, System Operations and/or other field operations workgroups. Develops and assesses work methods and conducts training to enhance productivity, reduce cost, and maintain worker safety.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

• Develops and maintains training curriculum. Designs and/or maintains training materials, including course overviews, outlines, trainer’s guides, and other training materials (e.g., print materials, electronic materials, props, tools, supplies, and computer-based training).
• Conducts training for NW Natural employees, including classroom training, remote, scenario-based/simulation training, practical training and on-the-job training, as appropriate. Provides training for field coaches and evaluators. May provide training to contractors/contractor trainers.
• Designs training assessments and tools to evaluate employee performance and knowledge in training. Designs assessments for use during qualifying periods following training.
• Utilizes Learning Management System and electronic testing to track training completion and review assessment results with learners
• Observes and provides feedback to field employees on required job knowledge and skills. Conducts training needs assessment and evaluates training effectiveness.
• Performs training administrative duties, including using company software systems to track training, employee attendance, and evaluation results.
• Utilizes technology to enhance training delivery and to measure effectiveness.
• Conducts research and development on new tooling, work methods, and technologies and makes recommendations. Receives and conducts associated training.
• Coordinates and maintains operating manuals, including issuing updates and revisions to ensure compliance with internal and external codes, regulations, and standards.
• May develop and conduct training for fire departments on NW Natural-related natural gas topics. Initiates annual contact with all fire departments located within NWN service territory.
• Assists with and/or takes lead in the material defects and failure investigation process. Analyzes data and prepares reports to ensure compliance requirements are met. Works with Engineering and/or manufacturers/vendors to conduct follow-up analysis on defects/failures.
• Performs quality assurance inspections of personnel to support QA process and ensure standards taught in training are met.
• Provides support to the Operator Qualifications program. Sets up for and conducts evaluations, participates in OQ procedure review/revision, and provides related training.
• Serves as subject matter expert on various company committees, as assigned.
• Operates vehicles on Company business in compliance with state/local laws and Company policies and procedures.
• Coaches field employees on proper work practices, policies and procedures.
• May conduct training for parallel field roles with our industry partners (e.g., other utilities). Travels in territory to conduct training as needed.
• Supports Company’s commitment to a culture of safe work practices.

Qualifications:

• A minimum of 3 years current NW Natural field operations experience or an equivalent combination of related current and past field operations experience/education for the Level 2 position.
• Relevant field operations experience could include the fields of: system operations, construction, customer field services, etc.
• 5+ years of current NW Natural field operations experience for the Level 3 position.  
• Demonstrated advanced knowledge and application of:
  -    Field Operations Manual
  -    International Residential Code, International Mechanical Code, as applicable
  -    NWN Standard Practices Manual and Federal Pipeline Safety Rules
  -    NWN Emergency Response Procedures
  -    Company Safe Work Practices and OSHA Regulations
• Excellent verbal communication skills in order to effectively communicate standards/expectations and provide one-on-one coaching.
• Proven presentation skills in order to effectively conduct training for small and large groups of technical experts.
• Proven ability to collaborate with others, including other team members, supervisors, and managers; and work effectively with employees at all levels and across departments.
• Demonstrated track record of establishing and maintaining respect and confidence of field employees; proven ability to work collaboratively.
• Values diversity and an inclusive teamwork approach.
• Superb writing skills, including technical documentation, record keeping and report writing; ability to effectively document training plans.
• Demonstrated initiative and results orientation.
• Proven ability to self-start, manage multiple tasks and prioritize work to meet deadlines using time-management techniques.
• Demonstrated problem-solving and creative-thinking skills; ability to define problems, develop and present recommendations, organize information, and identify alternative solutions.
• Skills in process design and improvement.
• Proven interpersonal skills; diplomatic and respectful.
• Demonstrable skills in using a PC, including word processing, spreadsheet, and database applications.   Analytical and diagnostic skills; ability to collect, interpret and summarize data.
• Possess and maintain a valid OR/WA driver's license, any required certifications and/or endorsements and maintain a satisfactory driving record.
• Ability to physically access field work sites and locations as necessary.