INTRODUCTION

Job Title: Operations Technician
Name: Matthew Harris
Company Overview: Matthew Harris is an Operations Technician with ExxonMobil Canada, where he contributes to operations both offshore on oil production installations and onshore at office sites.

Job Overview

Matthew’s daily responsibilities as an Operations Technician involve reviewing operations documents to ensure technical accuracy and assisting with the preparation of training materials and work management systems, specifically for the Hebron Gravity Based Structure (GBS) project. He works primarily in the office but has periodic offshore assignments, which will likely increase once the Hebron installation becomes fully operational. His role requires adaptability and collaboration with experienced team members, providing him with continuous learning and growth in an evolving work environment.

Career Path

After completing his Chemical Process Engineering diploma at the College of the North Atlantic, Matthew gained valuable industry experience through work terms in Alberta and St. John’s. These opportunities influenced his decision to pursue a career in the oil and gas sector. Since joining ExxonMobil, he has also completed extensive training tailored to offshore work requirements, which has prepared him for the unique challenges of offshore operations.

Day in the Life

Matthew’s typical day involves an eight-hour shift in ExxonMobil’s St. John’s office, with occasional trips offshore. His work encompasses technical reviews, collaborative training preparation, and active involvement in the Hebron project’s operational setup. This role demands vigilance and flexibility, as he encounters a dynamic range of tasks and potential environmental hazards, especially when offshore. Matthew values these learning opportunities and strives to leverage each experience to advance his expertise, remarking, “I consider myself very lucky to be working with a project like Hebron.”

Skills and Tools

Technical Skills: Document review, technical training preparation, work management system setup. Soft Skills: Adaptability, teamwork, attention to detail, and problem-solving. Tools Used: Work management systems, technical documentation software, safety and compliance tools.