Position Title:

Senior Observer/Observer

Location:

Field Computer Facility

Reports to:

Recording Crew Manager

Classification:

Salary, Exempt

Purpose:

The Senior Observer/Observer is responsible for a crew’s production by recording data using specialized computer equipment. They must also ensure the accuracy and efficiency of recording instruments and detect and have resolved any issues that interfere with production.

Seniority is based on a combination of length of time with the company and experience. The Senior Observer and Observer share assigned tasks and duties with the when on crew together, with total responsibility and accountability resting with the Senior Observer. In the absence of a/the Senior Observer, the Observer assumes total responsibility and accountability

Summary of main job functions:

• Directs Head Linesman and crew personnel in placement and location of equipment according to the established layout plan
• Ensures seismic data is captured accurately as generated using specialized seismic recording software
• Communicates with Head Linesman and troubleshooters regarding issues affecting efficient recording of data
• Communicates daily production plans with Recording Crew Manager
• Determines scheduled and actual hours worked for Recording Crew personnel, with influence from production conditions, progress of job etc.
• Assures daily start-up is not delayed as a result of data assembly and/or poor planning, by having daily production plan in advance of each day
• Completes data logs in real time for daily production reports and ensures delivery of data records
• Ensures all deployed equipment is retrieved and accounted for at job completion
• In absence of Observer in Training (Junior Observer) maintains cleanliness of Doghouse
• Maintains and promotes a professional image of the Company at all times, including when meeting with landowners, clients etc.
• Accepts and completes any and all other tasks, duties and responsibilities assigned by Senior Observer (if applicable), Recording Crew Manager and Operations Manager

Required Knowledge and Skills:

• Minimum 2 years’ experience operating different seismic recording systems
• Minimum 1 years’ experience as line crew personnel
• Ability to troubleshoot different cable and wireless recording systems
• Experience in making daily production plans by assessing recent/current progress and ability to plan for variances
• Understands geophone and other seismic equipment operational characteristics (various makes and models) to support troubleshooter
• Working knowledge of seismic Vibroseis equipment
• Valid Driver’s License (CDL Class A highly desired)
• Ability to communicate in both English & Spanish
• Ability to read and understand various field maps and topographic maps
• Can understand & communicate technical instructions delivered via radio
• Can advise on/follow OSHA and company safety rules and precautions

Desirable Qualifications:

• Previous experience with technical/recording software repair
• Previous experience as a Seismic Observer
• High school diploma or educational equivalent
• Trade School certification in geology or electronics
• First Aid & CPR Certification
• Previous experience with Dept. of Transport Log Book requirements
• Valid Medical Certification

The following work environment and physical demands are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

Work Environment:

The Senior Observer/Observer works inside a recording facility truck stationed in remote isolated outdoor environments, subject to extreme weather conditions including heat, cold, rain, snow and sudden changes in temperatures. Surrounding terrain may be uneven, slippery, inclined or unstable. Exposure to dust, dirt, fumes and vibration are expected and there is potential for exposure to corrosive battery acid.

The Senior Observer/Observer works 7 days per week with long hours. A 30 day on/10 day off schedule is assigned. Daily schedules fluctuate and shifts may be allocated on a day or night basis due to weather conditions and operational needs. Extensive travel from job to job is required with lodging provided in a motel or an RV near the jobsite. Frequent travel to the Wichita office to facilitate training is also required.

Physical Demands:

The Senior Observer/Observer must be able to, but not limited to:

• Constantly sit at a desk and monitor multiple computer screens, to make plans with other Observer, Head Linesman and Recording Crew Manager, and frequently drive the line spread and travel to/from jobsite
• Constantly stand or remain in a stationary position when delivering safety meetings, and/or giving instruction
• Constantly climb or balance when entering Field Recording facility and field trucks
• Constantly talk and listen to receive progress reports and communicate instruction to crew personnel
• Constantly communicate verbally and by typing using telephone, email and other media
• Constantly required to use specific vision abilities, including close vision, distant vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
• Frequently stoop, kneel, crouch or bend
• Frequently use hands to finger, handle or feel equipment
• If the need arises lift and/or move equipment up to 50lbs
• If the need arises walk distance up to 3 miles per day
• If the need arises be able to distinguish taste or smell of gas, spilled fluids, smoke