Auxiliary Plant Operator

NAES•Colbert, GA

5h•Onsite

About The Position

The Auxiliary Plant Operator plays an essential role in supporting the operation of biomass power generation systems at the Madison Biomass Facility. This position involves active participation in the start-up, shutdown, and routine operation of critical plant processes, including fuel handling systems, biomass-fired boilers, and associated auxiliary equipment. A core aspect of this role includes performing operational tests, system inspections, and minor maintenance to ensure the facility operates safely, cleanly, and efficiently. The Auxiliary Plant Operator works closely with the control room, plant management, and the operations and maintenance teams to maintain stable and compliant plant performance.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent is required.
Demonstrated experience in operations or technician roles within power generation or heavy industrial settings.
Basic understanding of combustion processes, steam systems, and thermodynamic principles in a biomass or similar environment.
Working knowledge of industrial safety practices, including hazard identification, lockout/tagout, confined space entry, and fall protection.
Understanding of electrical systems and equipment, including knowledge of electrical isolation procedures and general safety practices in high-voltage environments.
Ability to read and interpret piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs), equipment manuals, and operational procedures.
Awareness of applicable safety and environmental regulations such as OSHA, NFPA, and EPA requirements related to biomass plant operations.
Must possess a valid, unrestricted U.S. driver’s license and ensure it remains in good standing at all times.

Nice To Haves

An associate degree or certification in Power Plant Technology, Process Operations, or a related field is preferred.
Exposure to biomass, waste-to-energy, or boiler-based steam generation systems.
Hands-on experience operating or maintaining advanced biomass fuel handling systems, high-efficiency Foster Wheeler boilers, ash collection systems, air compressors, and feedwater systems is strongly preferred.
Familiarity with sophisticated water chemistry processes, and advanced emissions control technologies such as hot precipitators and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems, along with boiler water and steam cycle management, is beneficial.

Responsibilities

Assist with start-up, shutdown, and routine operations of biomass plant systems in accordance with established procedures and safety protocols, including the safe and efficient operation of the facility’s Foster Wheeler boiler.
Operate and monitor key auxiliary systems such as biomass fuel conveyors, feed systems, ash handling equipment, air compressors, boiler feedwater systems, and emissions control systems, including the hot precipitator and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system.
Conduct routine inspections, diagnostics, and performance tests on critical systems and components, with particular attention to boiler performance, combustion efficiency, and emissions control reliability.
Carry out control room orders to prepare equipment for service or safely remove it from operation. Tasks include isolation, lockout/tagout, and ensuring all safety protocols are observed during clearances and handovers.
Perform routine water chemistry analysis on boiler feedwater and condensate systems; operate emissions monitoring equipment to ensure compliance with environmental and regulatory standards.
Maintain accurate and timely operating logs and shift reports in accordance with regulatory and company requirements; issue and approve Tag Outs when authorized.
Identify and report abnormal or off-normal equipment or process conditions to the Control Room Operator (CRO), and support or take corrective actions as needed.
Assist with mechanical and electrical maintenance activities including Lockout/Tagout support, equipment identification, troubleshooting, and maintenance request generation.
Utilize a Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) to document work performed, track system performance, and assist with work planning and material requisition.
Support the facility’s mission of promoting sustainable energy practices and long-term environmental stewardship through reliable and efficient plant operation.
Perform other duties as assigned by the control room or plant management in support of safe and efficient plant operations.