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Production and Conservation Director

The Production and Conservation Director provides strategic and operational leadership for the regulation, development, and environmental oversight of oil and gas exploration and production within the State of Arkansas. This position ensures the effective enforcement of state and federal laws related to drilling, well operation, underground injection control, and site reclamation, and serves as a key advisor on energy resource policy.

Class Code:

PEM05C

Job Grade:

SPC09

Special Job Requirements:

Typical Functions:

Direct and manage regulatory programs related to oil and gas exploration, production, and environmental compliance within Arkansas. Develop and implement policies, rules, and procedures consistent with state statutes and federal guidelines (e.g., EPA, BLM). Oversee permitting, inspection, and enforcement functions for drilling operations, production facilities, and injection wells. Lead efforts related to abandoned well remediation, seismic activity monitoring, and environmental risk mitigation. Supervise a multidisciplinary team of engineers, geologists, inspectors, and support staff. Ensure compliance with the Arkansas Oil and Gas Commission Rules and coordinate enforcement actions when violations occur. Coordinate with industry stakeholders, landowners, and community leaders to address concerns and ensure transparency in operations. Represent the state in meetings, legislative hearings, and regional/national regulatory forums. Manage program budgets, oversee contracts, and pursue federal funding opportunities where appropriate. Provide executive-level briefings and policy recommendations to agency leadership, legislative committees, and the Governor’s Office. Develop educational programs and materials to inform the public, agricultural producers, and landowners about best practices in conservation, sustainability, and land stewardship.

Knowledge, Abilities, and Skills:

Deep knowledge of oil and gas operations, including drilling, completion, production, and reclamation. Expertise in state and federal regulatory frameworks governing natural resource extraction and groundwater protection. Familiarity with underground injection control (UIC) programs and Class II well management. Proficiency in data-driven decision-making using GIS, geological mapping software, and environmental reporting tools. Experience in budget development, grant administration, and program evaluation. Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to effectively engage stakeholders and the public. Leadership & Management: Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams, guide organizational strategy, and manage complex programs. Communication: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey technical issues to non-technical audiences, including policymakers and the public. Collaboration: Skilled in interagency coordination and stakeholder engagement, with the ability to build consensus in high-stakes or politically sensitive environments. Decision-Making: Sound judgment in risk management, policy interpretation, and regulatory enforcement.

Minimum Qualifications:

A bachelor’s degree in geology, petroleum engineering, environmental science, public administration, or related fields. At least 5-7 years of professional experience in oil and gas regulation, natural resources management, or energy policy, including 3 years in a supervisory or leadership role

Required Certificates:

N/A OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.

Exempt:

E
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