Flaring

Term from Gas Extraction industry explained for recruiters

Flaring is a common practice in oil and gas operations where excess gases are safely burned off at production sites. Think of it like a safety valve that burns unwanted gases rather than releasing them directly into the air. Companies use flaring to handle excess gas when storage or transport isn't possible, or during maintenance and emergencies. It's an important safety and environmental control process that requires skilled operators to manage it properly. When you see this term in resumes, it usually refers to experience with managing, monitoring, or improving gas flaring systems.

Examples in Resumes

Supervised flaring operations during routine maintenance of gas processing units

Reduced flaring emissions by 30% through implementation of gas recovery systems

Managed flaring and venting procedures during emergency shutdowns

Developed safety protocols for gas flaring operations

Typical job title: "Flare System Operators"

Also try searching for:

Process Operator Gas Plant Operator Flare System Engineer Production Operator HSE Specialist Environmental Compliance Officer Operations Technician

Where to Find Flare System Operators

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you develop a plan to reduce flaring at a production facility?

Expected Answer: A strong answer should include understanding of gas recovery systems, economic analysis of gas capture vs flaring, environmental regulations, and ability to coordinate with multiple departments to implement solutions.

Q: What safety procedures would you implement for emergency flaring situations?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of emergency response protocols, risk assessment, personnel training requirements, and coordination with safety teams and local authorities.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the main reasons for flaring and how can they be minimized?

Expected Answer: Should explain routine vs emergency flaring, equipment limitations, maintenance requirements, and basic strategies for reducing flaring through better planning and equipment upgrades.

Q: How do you monitor flare efficiency and emissions?

Expected Answer: Should discuss basic monitoring equipment, record-keeping practices, emission calculations, and common regulatory requirements for flare monitoring.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic components of a flare system?

Expected Answer: Should be able to identify main parts like flare stack, ignition system, knock-out drum, and basic safety features.

Q: What safety precautions are necessary when working around flare systems?

Expected Answer: Should mention basic safety procedures like personal protective equipment, safe distances, wind direction awareness, and emergency shutdown procedures.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic flare system monitoring
  • Safety procedures awareness
  • Record keeping
  • Equipment checks

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Flare system troubleshooting
  • Emissions monitoring
  • Emergency response procedures
  • Regulatory compliance

Senior (5+ years)

  • Flare reduction strategies
  • System optimization
  • Team supervision
  • Environmental compliance management

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of basic safety procedures
  • Lack of understanding about environmental regulations
  • No experience with monitoring equipment
  • Poor understanding of emergency procedures