Auxiliary Plant Operator

NAES•Riesel, TX

1d•$32 - $38•Onsite

About The Position

The Auxiliary Plant Operator supports the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of Sandy Creek Energy Station, a nominal 900-megawatt, supercritical coal-fired power plant near Riesel, Texas. The facility uses a pulverized-coal boiler, condensing steam turbine-generator, and auxiliary systems. Coal is delivered by rail from the Powder River Basin, and environmental controls include SCR, powdered activated carbon injection, spray dry absorption, and fabric filtration. Working under the direction of the Shift Supervisor, the operator inspects and monitors plant equipment, records operating conditions, identifies abnormal conditions, and assists with operational and maintenance activities. The position helps maintain equipment reliability, environmental compliance, and safe plant conditions. This role works in a coal-fired power plant environment on DuPont’s rotating 12-hour schedule, providing 24/7 coverage through day and night shifts. Extended hours, flexible shifts, weekends, holidays, and callout availability may be required. Compensation is $32 to $38 per hour, with eligibility for an annual performance bonus.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Knowledge of plant equipment and systems, including pumps, motors, valves, boiler and steam systems, water treatment, cooling systems, coal and ash handling, and emission-control equipment.
Understanding of basic electrical theory, mathematics, physics, chemistry, thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid flow as applied to plant operations.
Ability to read and interpret plant drawings, piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs), electrical schematics, single-line diagrams, and equipment manuals.
Familiarity with industrial safety practices, including chemical handling, confined-space work, hazardous-energy control, fire prevention, and safe equipment operation.
Ability to follow written and verbal instructions, recognize abnormal equipment conditions, identify hazards, and report or address issues within the scope of assigned authority.
Skill in using hand tools, portable power tools, and basic rigging equipment; ability to operate plant vehicles and material-handling equipment when appropriately trained and authorized.
Basic computer skills for entering operating data, maintaining records, preparing reports, and completing required training.
Valid, unrestricted U.S. driver’s license that remains in good standing.
Participation in the Fitness for Duty Program, including a post-offer physical examination, drug screening, and post-employment random drug screening.
Ability to meet the physical demands and work in the conditions described, including standing for extended periods, climbing stairs and ladders, working at heights, and regularly lifting up to 50 pounds.

Nice To Haves

Associate degree in power plant technology, engineering, process technology, or a related field.
Experience in a power plant or other industrial operating environment, particularly as an Auxiliary Plant Operator or in a comparable position.

Responsibilities

Follow established safety procedures, including lockout/tagout (LOTO), proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and applicable regulatory requirements.
Conduct routine equipment rounds and inspections, monitor operating conditions, identify deficiencies, and report issues requiring corrective action.
Monitor plant systems and equipment, including pumps, motors, valves, fluid systems, water treatment systems, cooling systems, coal and ash handling equipment, boilers, and emission-control equipment.
Record operating readings, maintain accurate logs, and prepare reports documenting equipment status, operational activities, and abnormal conditions.
Promptly report changing or abnormal plant conditions to the Shift Supervisor and communicate relevant information to the Control Room Operator (CRO).
Carry out authorized operating instructions and perform assigned operational adjustments in accordance with established procedures and supervisory direction.
Assist with emergency response and recovery activities to protect personnel, equipment, and plant systems.
Support preventive and corrective maintenance by preparing equipment for maintenance, performing assigned tasks, and coordinating with maintenance personnel.
Perform authorized tagging and equipment-isolation duties in accordance with site procedures and applicable training requirements.
Use hand tools, portable power tools, rigging equipment, and material-handling equipment to support plant operations and maintenance.
Maintain clean, orderly work areas and assist with housekeeping activities to support safe working conditions.
Operate assigned plant vehicles and equipment when trained and authorized.
Support plant safety, environmental compliance, operational efficiency, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Perform other duties as assigned in support of safe and reliable plant operations.