Plant Operator

Job Summary

The Plant Operator ensures safe, efficient, reliable, and environmentally compliant generation of electricity and steam by performing both field/auxiliary duties and control‑room operations (monitoring, alarms, startup/shutdown, load control).

• Operate, inspect, and monitor power plant equipment (e.g., gas turbines/generators and associated auxiliaries, feedwater/condensate systems, fuel systems, boiler/HRSG equipment, and water treatment systems) to maintain safe, efficient, and reliable plant performance.
• In the control room, operate HMIs/panels to regulate turbines, generators, HRSGs, and auxiliary equipment; maintain proper steam temperature/pressure, feedwater and fuel supply, and overall efficient conditions.
• Execute plant startup, shutdown, and load control; perform emergency operations to maintain electric service and safeguard station equipment.

• Observe variations in operating conditions; interpret instrument readings to troubleshoot equipment and resolve operational problems.
• Maintain accurate CRO/shift logs and respond to dispatcher orders and requests in real time.
• Generate/review work requests for equipment repair and assist maintenance personnel (including safe tool/equipment use and vehicle operation) as needed.

• Recognize hazards; follow safety guidelines for personal, coworker, and public protection; implement plant emergency procedures when required.
• Understand and execute equipment clearance procedures (LOTO) and operate various switches/valves, knowing their impact on total plant operation.
• Communicate plant conditions clearly (oral and written) to supervision and team members; provide suggestions for plant improvements within established procedures.
• Take samples and perform routine laboratory tests/analysis for plant processes (e.g., boiler water, make‑up demineralizer); monitor and record data using instruments, charts, annunciators, and other devices.
• Operate computer systems to receive, analyze, and input operational data.

• Industrial power‑plant and occasional office environments; exposure to rotating equipment, high voltage, high noise, elevations up to 150–250 ft, confined spaces, and all temperature extremes.
• Irregular/rotating shifts, weekend/holiday work, and 24/7 callout. Emergencies may require respirator use and stair climbing to safety shelters. Facial hair is prohibited in the respirator sealing area; contact lenses restricted except for specific medical reasons; safety footwear required.
• Education & Credentials
  • High school diploma or GED.
  • Valid state driver’s license.
• Experience
  • For Plant Operator I/II: 0–3 years’ Plant Operator experience (or equivalent industrial experience) in a power plant environment. Level placement depends on demonstrated competencies.
  • For Control Room Operator placement: Minimum 3 years’ experience as a Plant Operator (or equivalent position) in an operating/generating plant, with proven ability to multi‑task in a fast‑paced control room.
• Qualification
  • Ability to successfully complete the Control Room Operator qualification card (required for CRO progression).
  • The position is part of a structured progression pathway:
    Hired candidate will be required to complete the training, qualification cards (including the Control Room Operator qualification card), and competency milestones for progression from Plant Operator to Control Room Operator within a defined target timeframe. Successful completion makes employees eligible to be considered for advancement in accordance with Company policy; this statement does not create a contract or guarantee promotion.

• Degree or certificate from a technical/vocational program (or equivalent)

• Knowledge of steam power‑plant systems and fundamental plant principles.
• Ability to perform arithmetic for flow, pressure, and meter calculations.
• Read and interpret blueprints, schematics, procedures, and technical manuals.
• Proficiency with HMIs and related electronic/computer equipment; discern and respond to verbal/auditory signals.
• LOTO…