OIL AND GAS INSPECTOR 74082

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This is the second class in the Oil and Gas Inspector series. The class is charged with enforcement of the Virginia Oil and Gas Act, Code of Virginia, Title 45, Chapter 22, and the Virginia Geothermal Resource Conservation Act, Title 45, Chapter 15.1. This class is established by and powers and duties defined by the Oil and Gas Act. This class is distinguished from the Oil and Gas Assistant Inspector by its responsibility for administration of oil, gas and geothermal programs and by the Assistant Inspectors' emphasis on conducting inspections.

Complexity of Work: Performs work of considerable difficulty involving directing activities of the Division of gas and Oil for the effective and safe exploration for, and development, production,utilization, and conservation of oil and gas and geothermal resources through the enforcement of laws and regulations. This class provides administration of the Division through management of personnel, including interview and selection, training, performance evaluation and counseling; development of budget and management of fiscal assets; provision of strategic and operational planning and participation informulation of laws, regulations, policies; and evaluation of programs. The class supervises and directs Oil and Gas Assistant Inspectors, who conduct inspections; evaluates inspection and enforcement data to determine policy development; and evaluates the Inspection Frequency Policy to determine and assure compliance and mandate of law. The class manages the Client Assistant Program, which through provision of information to clients about gas and oil activities, laws, and regulations, enhances compliance and safety. The class reviews applications for permits, for conformance to laws and regulations and investigates or directs the investigation of complaints. Must be knowledgeable of development, production, conservation, protection, and management of geothermal, gas and oil resources in order to enforce the Act. This class is authorized to issue Notices of Violations and Closure orders and Show Cause/Revocation or Permit letters which may result in closure of a site, forfeiture of posted surety, or legal action taken. The class conducts information fact-finding hearings, receiving testimony and evidence in administrative appeal hearings regarding denial of application, and renders a decision. Assists Well Review Board or Oil and Gas Board in hearing proceedings as applicable.

Supervision Given: Provides supervision to Oil and Gas Assistant Inspectors who are responsible for conducting inspections of well-sites and enforcing the oil and gas and geothermal laws.

Supervision Received: Receives general direction from Mines, Minerals and Energy Assistant Director.

Scope: Work affects the compliance with laws related to oil, gas, and geothermal resource management, which in turn affects the environment and the safety of the community.

Impact of Actions: Ineffective enforcement of applicable laws, including forced closures and placing conditions on permits of operations, could impact the agency through loss of time, money and credibility.

Personal Contacts: Frequent internal and external contact including industry representatives in relation to drilling and operational activities; the public in relation to providing information or hearing complaints; the Office of the Attorney General to obtain legal advice or interpretations; and the State Water Control Board to coordinate activities or consultation regarding environmental issues. Other contacts may include federal agencies, state legislators, and others involved in related activities.

Knowledge: Considerable knowledge of laws, rules, and regulations for oil and gas exploration and drilling; of methods, practices, and procedures of oil and gas prospecting, drilling, completion, and production; of safety and conservation practices related to such operations; of geology and of geothermal energy.

Skills: None.

Abilities: Demonstrated ability to manage a program or function including personnel and fiscal; to supervise; and to effectively communicate, both orally and in writing.

QUALIFICATIONS GUIDE*

License or Certification: None.

Education or Training: Graduation from an accredited college or university with major study in mining engineering, petroleum engineering or geology.

Level and Type of Experience: Extensive experience in geology, petroleum engineering, or mining engineering.

An equivalent combination of training and experience indicating possession of the preceding knowledge and abilities may substitute for this education and experience.

This class was redefined as a result of the statewide Classification Review/Specification Update Program in