COBRA

The Console Operator Basic Requirements Assessment (COBRA) is a fully automated screening test. Since 1993, it has evaluated over 100,000 prospective console operators at more than 150 locations globally.

COBRA Customer Support Hotline

US and Canada

Toll Free Telephone: +1-877-275-4577
Fax: +1-415-462-9701
Email: CobraSupport@jps-usa.com

International

Toll Free Telephone: +1-703-740-8334
Fax: +1-415-462-9701
Email: CobraSupport@jps-usa.com

COBRA is an ideal screening test for the following console positions:

Chemical Plant Operator
Electric System Operator
Gas Control Operator
Liquids Pipeline Controller
Mine Control Operator
Oil Platform Operator
Power Plant Operator
Production Field Operator
Refinery Operator
Terminal Operator

We have the capability to translate our products into a variety of native languages. COBRA is currently available in English, Spanish, French, Portuguese, Russian and Chinese.

How to Select Your Next Control Operator

By: Jolene Kramer, JPS President

Much like an air traffic controller, a control operator needs to be able to do things right the first time with no mistakes.

Learn what makes the control operator job unique, the benefits of a good selection system, what most companies are doing, and the latest scientific findings. In other words, why not everyone is cut out for these jobs, what selection techniques are effective, and which techniques you should avoid.

Learn More

Electrical engineer in hard hat and safety vest working at control room of a modern thermal power plant

Close up of a technician's hand using a mouse in a system control room

Female security guard working in surveillance room, monitoring cctv

COBRA Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does COBRA stand for?

The acronym stands for Console Operator Basic Requirements Assessment. It is a four-hour computer based employee selection test that can be used with candidates having no prior experience in the petroleum, chemical, utility, mining, or pipeline industry.

What does the COBRA test measure?

COBRA assesses essential cognitive abilities necessary for console positions, including:

Selective Attention: Concentrating amidst distractions.
Problem Sensitivity: Identifying potential issues early on.
Time-Sharing: Effectively multitasking.
Reasoning: Understanding how actions influence subsequent outcomes.
Resistance to Premature Judgment: Avoiding over-operation of the console.
Speed of Closure: Making sense of large volumes of process information.
Response Orientation: Quickly choosing between multiple actions.

Has the COBRA test been validated?

Yes, COBRA has undergone empirical validation in five separate studies, demonstrating a statistically significant correlation between COBRA scores and job performance.

What is the turnaround time to receive test results?

Test administrators can access results immediately after the test session through the Administration Utility.

How quickly can I start using COBRA?

Once the license agreement is signed, the COBRA software can be downloaded immediately. We provide an administrator training webinar, along with a comprehensive instruction manual and technical support, so you can test one or one hundred applicants right away.

What results can I expect to achieve by using COBRA?

Clients using COBRA typically experience reduced attrition, faster training times, and enhanced safety with fewer operational incidents.

What are the costs involved?

We offer a variety of pricing options tailored to your budget. Our most popular option is the unlimited site license, which includes a one-time license fee plus a modest annual maintenance fee. We also offer per-user pricing, and volume discounts are available for multi-site and enterprise-wide licenses.

Who administers the COBRA test?

You can administer the COBRA test yourself, as we provide free training with the purchase of your license.

What if I want to conduct the test at an off-site location?

We collaborate with third parties, such as staffing agencies, community colleges, and IT colleges, to provide testing rooms with PCs. In some cases, you can hire these partners to administer the test on your behalf. Once you have an agreement with a third party, we will assist them with the installation of the COBRA software and provide the necessary training and support to ensure smooth testing sessions.

Has the COBRA test been reviewed for discrimination?

Yes, we have conducted a comprehensive analysis to assess discrimination risks. We are willing to share the results with your Human Resources and Legal departments and participate in discussions to address any specific questions they may have.

What kind of computer do I need to run COBRA?

COBRA runs on individual PCs and is not web-based. The software is compatible with basic computers.

How do I get COBRA support?

We offer a dedicated COBRA support hotline and email, available 24/7 to assist with all your support needs.

Testimonials

“COBRA remains an important part of our screening process for Controllers.”

Plains All American Pipeline, Sr Director Control Center & P/L Scheduling

“The addition of COBRA to our recruiting process allowed us to keep pace with rapid growth with high quality recruits.”

Buckeye Partners, District Manager

“We are currently utilizing the COBRA testing on our second round of Operators. We have found COBRA to be a successful tool in our selection process.”

INEOS, HR Advisor

"It is one of the simplest and easiest ways I have ever seen to answer that one unknown that other testing and interviewing just can't seem to nail down - will an individual make a good control operator."

Plains Midstream Canada, Director of LPG Operations

"We've seen significant improvement in the competency and retention of Console Operators since we started using COBRA."

Colonial Pipeline, Training Manager

"Thank you for the COBRA Administration software training. You are highly complimented on the job you did on training via web conference. You covered all the essentials and you did so in a timely, friendly, yet professional manner. Our favorite part was the quiz you gave at the end!"

Lyondellbasell, Training Specialist

"COBRA was definitely helpful in picking the right people."

Kinder Morgan, Regional Control Center Manager

"Your help and the Support Group's quick responses are very much appreciated. The Control Center values COBRA and will continue its use."

Buckeye Partners Sr. Specialist, Training and MOC

"COBRA has become an important step in our recruitment process for future operators and panel operators. All candidates need to pass this assessment if they want to continue in our recruitment process. We are very happy with the results that we obtain from COBRA"

Hunt LNG Operating Company